An EHS (Electronic Hook Switch) cable is a solution that connects a DECT wireless headset base and a desk phone. The EHS cable enables remote answer and end call function from the headset. The ability to answer and end calls directly from your headset while at or away from your workstation is a highly beneficial function and a primary reason for getting a wireless headset.
Jabra, Poly, EPOS, and JPL have a wide range of wireless headsets and EHS cables to support multiple desk phone brands and models. Contact us! A trained team member from an Authorized Reseller like Call One, Inc. can help. EHS Cables are NOT included with the purchase of a wireless headset due to the various combinations of wireless headsets and desk phones.
Before you get excited at the prospect of wireless freedom, you will enjoy using a wireless headset and EHS cable; make sure your phone supports it. Not all phones support EHS Cables. Contact an Authorized Reseller to check compatibility. Additionally, they can help identify alternatives like a handset lifter.
Online compatibility guides are available. However, they may be challenging to navigate and understand if you are not familiar with them. It’s best to contact a subject matter expert to help you select the correct, compatible wireless headsets and EHS cables for your environment. There are hundreds of brands and thousands of individual phone models. You must know the desk phone brand and model whether you check compatibility on your own or contact an expert to help.
Poly and Jabra have developed audio adapters that provide multi-connectivity to corded USB headsets and Bluetooth headsets with the appropriate dongle. The Jabra link 950 and Poly MDA220 adapters connect compatible USB headsets to a desk phone and computer. These adapters can use select, compatible EHS cables to support remote answer/end call functions. It’s best to contact a subject matter expert or the manufacturer directly to check compatibility.
EHS Cables provide the beneficial function of remote call control. The challenge is that not all phones support EHS cables, so it’s important to check compatibility online or contact a subject matter expert who can help you select the right solutions for your use case. Call One, Inc. is a Nationally Certified Women’s Business Enterprise (WBENC) and an Authorized Reseller of Jabra, JPL, EPOS, and Poly. We have over three decades of knowledge and experience and are happy to support you.
https://www.calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Call-One-Bronto-EHS-Cable-blog-graphics.jpg310850Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-10-20 14:31:362021-10-20 15:14:22What is an EHS Cable for Wireless Headsets?
The global pandemic accelerated many organizations’ transition to remote work models. Heading into our second year of living in a continued state of uncertainty, organizations have made significant changes to how their employees communicate and collaborate. Cloud-based communications are being adopted and used. Business and IT leaders are developing new audio and video device standards to support the new normal of hybrid work or permanent remote work models.
The Challenge
How do organizations deploy, monitor, and manage devices for a dispersed workforce? How do organizations know if their employees are utilizing approved devices? How can IT teams better support a remote workforce and mitigate potential issues and reduce help desk ticket submissions?
The Solution
Device Management Software. The leading device manufacturers have developed device management software that is free or as a paid subscription. They also offer different delivery methods.
Please provide a brief overview of your solution and share a real-world example of how it has benefited a client.
What’s the difference between enterprise and individual desktop software? Do they need both?
One of the objections IT has for not supporting device management software is “security.” Security is certainly a legitimate concern, does your software have built-in security measures? What is your response to IT teams who express security concerns?
What do you see in the future for device management software?
Watch the video to hear the complete discussion.
Question #1: Please provide a brief overview of your solution and share a real-world example of how it has benefited a client.
Each panelist provides real-world examples of how device management software has benefited clients.
Marty with Poly shares how their software helped a large school district in southern California deploy tens of thousands of Poly Studio USB devices.
Trevor of Logitech shares how their software helped a large insurance company manage their meeting room devices remotely. This saved time and the need for IT team members to go room to room to ensure the devices were up and running.
Scott of EPOS shares several insurance institutions in Connecticut have been doing a hard phone removal. They utilize their software to ensure that headset firmware is updated and in high turnover scenarios, ensuring they are not repeating headsets.
Tim with Jabra shares how a multinational agriculture company in the Midwest uses their software to mass deploy updates to more than 25,000 devices including USB headsets, DECT wireless headsets, and video devices.
Question #2: What’s the difference between enterprise and individual desktop software? Do they need both?
Each partner offers device management software. The software allows IT teams to deploy, monitor, and manage audio and video devices. There are also desktop apps that provide end-users the ability to customize their device experience based on their preferences.
Question #3: One of the objections IT has for not supporting device management software is “security.” Security is certainly a legitimate concern, does your software have built-in security measures? What is your response to IT teams who express security concerns?
Each panelist expresses that security is a concern, and they have developed their software with that in mind. They are more than happy to share their certifications and allow your IT teams to test their software. Some also have white papers on privacy and security they are pleased to share.
Watch the video to hear their complete remarks regarding security and the measures they take.
Question #4: What do you see in the future for device management software?
Each panelist shares their thoughts on the future of device management software and devices as a whole. Some mention “smarter” people are working that on that.
Almost two years have passed, and we’re all still working and living with the pandemic. It’s safe to say work will never return to a pre-pandemic state. The exciting part is how quickly new work norms have accelerated. EPOS, Jabra, Logitech, and Poly are global leaders for multiple reasons. Key reasons are their ability to service and support customers on a global scale. Additionally, they are constantly innovating and developing new technology and devices to help people do their business better regardless of where they work. Business and IT leaders need to look at these new work norms and develop device standards based on their employees’ work styles and workspaces. If you would like to learn more or set up a proof of concept or pilot with any of these leading partners, contact us! And bring it all together by implementing device management software, so team members are more productive.
One of the most frequently asked questions comes in many forms but ultimately, the end objective is the same. Can you connect two USB headsets to a single computer so both headsets receive/transmit audio simultaneously for training? The answer is, “No”. We have written a couple blogs previously (Is there a Training-Y for USB Headsets? and Training-Y for USB Headsets in Softphone environment?) as well as put out a video titled How To Connect Two USB Headsets to a PC for Training!. The challenge being the limitations of the computer only allowing you to select one Output and Input audio path. The same is true when using a collaboration app like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, 8×8, etc. You can only select one audio source. In video below we show you using a USB splitter we purchased online and a Poly Blackwire 8225 and Jabra BIZ 2400 II USB Headset.
This blog is revisiting the topic of training two people via one computer for voice calls, especially as organizations explore return to office plans.
Currently there are four options organizations can select:
Option 1 – Two QD Headsets + Training-Y + QD to USB Adapter
Poly, Jabra, EPOS, and JPL all offer a QD Headsets along with Training-Y cables and QD to USB Adapters.
Cloud communications platforms today offer Call Monitoring features that many include:
Listen: Listen to a call without the parties being aware.
Whisper: Speak to a user in a call without other parties being aware.
Barge: Join a call and speak to all parties.
Take over: Take over the call from another user.
Call One, Inc. is a Trusted Advisor and can help you select and appropriate UCaaS or CCaaS platform that aligns with your business goals and objectives to include 8×8 and Zoom. Contact us to learn more! In the video below, we physically connect two USB headsets via USB Splitter we purchased online to show that you can’t select more than one device for audio source.
https://www.calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/2-Headsets-1-PC-blog.jpg10001778Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-06-08 17:13:242021-06-08 17:13:30Why You Can’t Use 2 USB Headsets on 1 PC
There is no shortage of webcam options available for businesses to select from. In fact, it can become a bit overwhelming. Organizations like Call One, Inc. and our sister company Hello Direct can help you select the right webcam for your multiple use cases.
Here is a guide of things to consider when choosing webcams for business.
Compatibility with Operating System
Not all computers and laptops are created equal. Make certain the webcams you are considering are compatible with your computers’ Operating System/s. Most leading webcam manufacturers will provide a System Requirements list. For example, the Logitech C925e System Requirements are: Windows 7 or later, macOS® 10.7 or later, Chrome OS™ Version 29.0.1547.70 and later. Some webcams will even include the type of processor and recommended RAM, like the Cisco Webex Desk Camera System Requirements list: Operating system: Windows 10 with Universal C Runtime and above, Mac OS X 10.12 and above | CPU (Recommended) I5@2.4 GHz/i7@1.9 GHz Intel processor, or a processor with equivalent capabilities | RAM (Recommended) 8 GB or more | USB Port: USB-C port, USB-A port (USB 2.0 or USB 3.0, 4K video requires USB 3.0 port).
Be sure to check webcam System Requirements before you buy.
Video Platforms Supported
Most USB webcams will work across all major and popular video platforms, but it is a good idea to check to ensure webcam will work in your video environment. Some webcams are certified to work with specific platforms. This means the webcam manufacturer has met all the specifications and requirements set forth by the platform provider to perform in an expected way. For example, the Logitech C930e, Yealink UVC20, Huddly IQ, Jabra Panacast and others are certified for Skype for Business and Microsoft Teams. However, they are also compatible with other popular applications to include BlueJeans, Cisco Webex™, Fuze, Google Meet™, GoToMeeting®, Lifesize Cloud, Pexip, RingCentral Video, Vidyo, and Zoom®.
Young modern woman having Video Conference at home
Windows Hello Support
Microsoft face authentication in Windows 10 is an enterprise-grade identity verification mechanism that is integrated into the Windows Biometric Framework (WBF) as a core Microsoft Windows component called Windows Hello. Windows Hello face authentication utilizes a camera specially configured for near infrared (IR) imaging to authenticate and unlock Windows devices as well as unlock your Microsoft Passport.
Most users are good with 1080p and even 720p depending on their role in a video meeting. Some cameras have a fixed resolution like the Logitech C505e at 720p at 30 fps. While many webcams can adjust from 720p to 1080p. Most presenters will do well by selecting webcam with higher video resolution.
Field of View and Auto Framing
Field of View (FOV) has become increasingly more important as video meetings have become a part of our daily lives. Today people are joining from a variety of environments and some are using green screens to help hide their background. Some video participants prefer less of their background to be seen and require a webcam with a narrow FOV. While others need to share a wider field of view. The ability to adjust field of view is ideal for many use cases and select webcams offer that function via their software. While others allow you to zoom or provide pan, tilt, zoom capabilities via their software. The Cisco Webex Desk Camera supports FOV adjustment between 65°, 70°, 75°and 81°. The Logitech Brio supports FOV adjustments between 65°, 78°, and 90°. If you need a wider field of view, the Jabra Panacast offers 180 degree field of view with the option to adjust between 90°, 120°, 140°and 180°. Some cameras have a fixed FOV with digital zoom. How much or how little of your background do you want shown? Field of View is something to consider.
Auto Framing, Group Framing, Intelligent Zoom, or whatever they name the technology, is a great feature available from select cameras. This technology finds you and frames you perfectly in the center. This is great for those who like to walk and talk or simply need to move to another area of the room and not have to manually adjust position of camera. These cameras offer this feature: Huddly IQ, Jabra Panacast, and Poly Studio P15.
Autofocus and Auto Light Correction
Autofocus is a great feature especially if you want to show something directly from of the camera so others can see the detail. Most cameras offer Autofocus however a select few lower cost models like the Logitech C505e and JPL Vision Mini do not support. Low light or poor lighting is a major factor depending on your location. Some have ideal settings with strong light source facing them while others due to room and furniture configuration may have strong light source coming from behind them or they have poor or no light source. All the Logitech Business Webcams offer RightLight technology that help you look your best in any lighting environment. Other webcams like the Poly Studio P5, Konftel Cam10, JPL Vision and Vision Mini, and Cisco Webex Desk Camera all offer Auto Light Correction.
Built-in Microphones
Personally, I strongly recommend a good corded USB or wireless headset or USB speakerphone. However, I understand some folks rely solely on their laptops for audio so having solid performing built-in mics available, is an upgrade. Webcams offer a variety of options from single omni-directional mic, two omni-directional mics, single and dual directional microphones, two full-duplexed microphones to microphones that can also support background noise reduction. If you need to walk away and still be heard, the VDO360 2See includes a far-field mic array that picks up your voice from up to 8 meters / 26 feet away.
Privacy Shutter
Many like the peace of mind of having a privacy shutter on their webcam when not in use. I am a fan of webcams with built-in privacy shutters like the Poly Studio P5, Logitech C925e, Konftel Cam10, Yealink UVC20, and Cisco Webex Desk Camera. Some do not include a lens cover like the Logitech C505e and Huddly cameras. If a privacy shutter is important, be sure to ask if one is included.
Mounting Options
Because of the multiple use cases, many folks require threaded tripod-ready mounting as well as mounting clip to attach to monitors and laptop screens. Some also invert the camera and mount in ceiling. If you are looking to flip and mount camera upside down, ensure there is software available to invert view.
USB-A or USB-C Connectivity and Cable Length
Most webcams today provide a USB-A connection. However, many newer computers and laptops only provide USB-C ports. Some cameras include USB-A and USB-C connection options. The Yealink UVC30 Desktop camera has a USB-A cable and includes a USB 3.0 Type A to Type C adapter. The Cisco Webex Desk Camera includes removeable USB-C to USB-A and USB-C to USB-C cables. The Poly Studio P15 and VDO360 3See include a USB-C type connection. I have tested USB 3.0 Type USB-A to type USB-C adapter with several USB-A webcams and they have worked.
There currently does not appear to be a standard USB cable length and will range from 3ft to 7ft+. Check on cable length prior to ordering to ensure the length will be sufficient for your setup.
Additional USB Ports
Computer manufacturers are decreasing the number of USB ports they include. Some webcams include additional USB ports that can be used to connect a headset, speakerphone, or other USB peripheral. The Poly Studio P5 and VDO360 1See each include one USB-A port and the Poly Studio P15 includes two additional USB-A ports. This is a great feature to consider when selecting a camera.
All-In-One
If you are looking for a personal all-in-one device that includes a camera, microphones, and speakers, you may want to consider the Poly Studio P15 or VDO360 3See. Check out the Poly Studio P15 in action in this video below!
Device Management
Today the hybrid work model is prevailing across multiple industries. Remote work will be a part of many. Being able to manage your audio and video devices personally or remotely is something to consider. Leading brands like Poly, Logitech, Yealink, Jabra, and Cisco offer enterprise and individual device management software to ensure your devices are performing optimally by having the latest software and firmware updates. Additionally, you can access multiple features and settings to help customize your video experience.
Warranty
Warranty can range from 1 to 3 years depending on webcam brand and model. All Logitech Business Webcam models include a 3-year limited hardware warranty. Beyond warranty, check with your vendor to understand the warranty service process. However please note, I have tested several webcams and it is very rare for a webcam from an established brand like Logitech or Poly to quit working. We have experienced issues with some of the lesser-known brands.
The individual use case will ultimately determine which webcam is best. Our helpful team along with our partners can help you and your business select the right solution. If you would like to set up a meeting to discuss your audio and video solutions needs, contact us!
https://www.calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Call-One-hybrid-work-WEBCAM-BLOG.jpg310850Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-04-26 17:11:452021-04-27 09:10:16Webcams for Business – What to consider
Organizations seeking to provide a consistent audio experience for their hybrid workforce have a few questions they need to answer like, “Is their setup the same in their home as their office? If not, what are the differences?” More questions to consider can be found in this blog: Questions to ask when selecting audio and video devices for Hybrid Work.
Many organizations have deployed the Poly Savi 8200 Office. However, due to the Savi headset and base, phone interface cable or EHS cable connected to their desk phone, USB cable connected to their work computer, and AC power supply that’s part of the spaghetti of cables under their workstation, it’s not really designed to be “portable”.
The Poly D200 DECT Wireless Savi Adapter can be purchased separately as an accessory to enable PC connection. They are available in in USB-A, USB-C, UC, and Microsoft variants.
The DECT wireless Jabra Engage 75 and Engage 65 Series are top sellers deployed in thousands of offices nationwide. Enable your Jabra Engage 75/65 or Jabra Evolve USB wireless headset to work as a corded USB device with the Jabra USB-A Cable – 14201-26 that is included with the Jabra Engage 75/65 system. The cable is black with a length of 4.9 ft/ 1.5 m. Leave the Jabra Engage base, telephone interface cable or EHS cable, and AC power supply in the office and take the headset and USB cable to work from home or from anywhere!
If you prefer to leave set up in office intact and not disconnect existing USB cable from the Engage base, buy a spare USB cable for only $23.
Please note when your headset is connected as a wired USB audio device, call controls and the busylight feature on the headset are not supported.
See the steps to use your headset as a wired USB audio device in the video below!
If you would like to learn more about audio and video solution for the hybrid workforce, please contact us directly. As authorized partners of Poly, Jabra, Logitech, JPL, Cisco, EPOS and more, we can help your business identify solutions to support the multiple use cases across your organization.
See the steps on how to pair a Savi 8220 headset to a D200 Savi Adapter (dongle) and the steps on how to convert an Engage 75 / 65 headset to a wired USB headset in video below!
https://www.calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Call-One-hybrid-work-dect.jpg310850Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-03-25 12:13:172021-03-25 12:14:59How to use existing Poly and Jabra DECT wireless headsets for Hybrid Work
In todays blog we show you how to connect a Poly DECT wireless deskphone-only headset to a computer using the Poly Savi 7220. You can do this with Poly (formerly Plantronics) Savi 7210, CS510, CS520, CS530, CS540 and CS545 as well. And since we have it set up, we also include a mic and wireless range test as well! Stick around until the end for a link to that video.
Step 2: Plug double prong end into the back of your DECT headset base. Note: Some DECT bases may look different than the Savi 7220.
Step 3:Plug USB end into your desired source (Example: your computer).
Step 4: Be sure to connect AC Power Adapter to appropriate power source.
And there you go! Your Desk phone only headset can now connect to you computer. This a great solution for employees that were sent home to work and don’t have a desk phone. Again, this solution also works for the Poly 7210, CS510, CS520, CS530, CS540 and CS545.
For a tutorial, check out our video below:
This quick tutorial includes a step by step tutorial on how to connect a Poly deskphone-only headset to the APU-76, but also features a microphone test at the very end.
If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to us. Thanks for tuning in!
https://www.calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Savi7220-blog-header.jpg10131800Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-02-19 14:48:522021-02-19 14:48:56How do you connect a Poly desk phone-only wireless headset to a computer?
Recently a viewer asked for a demo on the Huddly IQ Auto Framing feature. In todays blog/video, we show how to change from manual to Auto frame via Huddly App. Stick around until the end to see a quick demonstration.
Step One
Download the Huddly App. You can download via this link for free. Available on MAC and Windows.
Step Two
Once the app is installed, you simply check mark the “Auto” box.
Voilà! You now have Auto Framing on your Huddly IQ. Feel free to test by walking around different areas in your environment. You will notice it takes a few seconds for the camera to follow you, but don’t be alarmed, this is normal.
To reverse back to Manual Focus, just uncheck that “Auto” box and you will be able to manually focus the camera yourself.
Fortunately, the Huddly app isn’t just for the Auto Framing feature. There are a ton of settings jam-packed within the app. The App will notify you every time we release a new update. It’s easy to keep the camera up-to-date with the latest features, quality improvements and software enhancements. Check out this video where we dive a little deeper into the Huddly software:
Also, if you want to see a more in-depth step by step process, check out our video where we breakdown each step. At the very end we conclude with a demonstration on the Auto Framing technology:
Thank you for tuning in! If you have any question regarding the Huddly IQ, please reach out to us!
https://www.calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Huddly_V3.jpg10691900Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-02-16 08:48:442021-02-16 09:00:38Huddly IQ Auto Framing Feature | Tutorial
You can save money by replacing headset accessories instead of buying a new headset! (Yes, some folks replace the entire headset when the ear cushion starts falling apart)
If you have ever been in a major contact center, there are vending machines you can go to for replacement ear cushions, mic screens and other essential accessories to keep your headset in optimal working condition. In a corporate office, there were processes in place you followed to get those accessories. The challenge for anyone working from home is they don’t have that same convenience.
What Replacement Accessories are available for your headset?
Companies like Call One, Inc. have been helping people do their business better since 1987. Our team can help you identify what replacement accessories are available for your specific headset. With multiple brands and headset models that exist, there are literally thousands of different accessories available. It can be extremely overwhelming. The Call One, Inc. team is here to help with Poly (formerly Plantronics), Jabra, EPOS (formerly Sennheiser), JPL and Cisco headset accessories.
Available Corded and Wireless Headset Accessories: Foam and leatherette Ear cushions, ear tips, ear wings, mic screens, voice tubes, replacement and spare batteries, headbands, neckbands, ear hooks, AC power supplies, Bluetooth Dongles, QD to modular coil cords, QD to USB adapters, training-y’s, charging stands, EHS cables, handset lifters, lapel clips, headband cushions, carry cases, amplifiers, audio processers, and more!
When should I replace accessories?
There are obvious times when you should replace, i.e., your AC power supply had a wrestling match with your vacuum cleaner and lost. Anytime a specific piece you need to use your headset effectively gets broken or goes missing, it’s time to replace. Foam ear cushions and mic screens should be replaced as often as you’d like but at least every 3-6 months depending on wear and tear. When it comes to wireless headset batteries, that typically depends on how heavy a user you are. Wireless headset batteries typically last at least twelve months however, we have seen batteries being replaced after only three to six months. Some batteries are field replaceable (you can DIY) while some are not (typically smaller form factor Bluetooth headsets)
Brands like JPL have modular headsets models like their Element TT3 that allow you to replace key components like the headbands and speaker and mic boom. This modular approach provides an overall lower cost of ownership.
Is there a minimum quantity order requirement?
That depends on the accessory, however, Call One, Inc. has been able to “break packs” to provide customers with the quantities they need. Another consideration when replacing headset accessories is shipping cost and how often you need to replace certain items like ear cushions. It’s best to order at least enough to last the length of the headset warranty.
Can you ship headset accessories to my home office?
Yes! Call One, Inc. can ship anywhere in the US including business and residential addresses.
How do I get started?
The best way is to contact us directly M-F, 8 am – 5 pm ET.
It’s best to have the headset brand and model you need accessories for in hand. Don’t know what headset you have? No problem. Take a picture of your headset and send it to us. Be sure to include what accessory you are looking for.
https://www.calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Call-One-Headset-Accessories-Blog.jpg7711800Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-02-12 15:15:362021-02-12 15:15:39Replacing Headset Accessories Can Save You Money!
This is a frequently asked question on our channel so we decided to reach out to Jabra, Poly and EPOS for their response. While you can pair your headset directly to your PC or Mac, the primary reason to use a dongle is call control. Using the pre-paired dongle will support the headset user the ability to answer and end calls via headset controls vs platform GUI. Other reasons to use a USB dongle versus pairing headset to Bluetooth are improved audio quality, increased roaming range, and overall user experience.
Integration with computer softphone and software support with Jabra Direct Full integration between a Jabra device and a computer softphone usually works only when combined with a Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter. Connecting to a computer without a Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter may provide audio capability in the device but not call control for answering and ending calls.
Bluetooth range Jabra devices obtain the best possible range when they are used with a Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter and not the built-in Bluetooth in a computer. Bluetooth performance of a computer is usually limited to a range of 2-5 meters/ 6-50 feet in a typical office environment.
Factory pairing and installation The Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter and Jabra device come pre-paired in the box. The Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter supports plug-and-play functionality, without needing to install separate software drivers on the computer.
Identification as a soundcard When pairing with the Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter, the device is identified by the computer operating system as a soundcard and can be used for all audio purposes. If a device is paired with the built-in Bluetooth of a computer, the device is usually recognized by the computer as a headset and can only be used for communication purposes.
Poly
Why are BT600 USB bluetooth adapters needed vs. pairing the headset directly to the PC/MAC?
Poly Bluetooth UC devices are full-featured and designed for optimal user experience. To fully benefit from the advanced functionality and have the most reliable audio experience, it is required that the headset is paired via the BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter versus paired directly to the PC/MAC. Poly provides function and additional benefits through the BT600 USB adapter in the following ways:
PC/MAC Bluetooth systems can vary widely in design and capability. By providing a BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter, Poly can ensure a better experience because we control both ends of the wireless connection
The BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter functions as an audio processor, which assures the best audio experience through wideband audio support—providing the highest voice quality. If connected directly to the PC/MAC, wideband audio is not possible
Without the BT600 USB adapter, PC/MAC Bluetooth systems do not typically provide capability to use the call control from the headset. Calls must be managed from the PC/MAC GUI and the buttons on the headset do not function. This eliminates mobility and provides a poor user experience
The BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter supports Poly software which provides advanced features, customization, as well as firmware upgrade capability
PC/MACs typically do not support all the required Bluetooth profiles or may assign the wrong Bluetooth profile to an application. The result can be poor audio quality, loss of audio on microphone or earphone, and inconsistent operation
The BT600 USB Bluetooth adapters enumerates to the computer as an audio device and therefore cannot act as a USB storage device. That being said, BT600 adapters cannot be used to access data on the PC/MAC
EPOS | Sennheiser
It’s the same reason for us, along with being the key to Microsoft Certification. Both the headset and dongle together is what certifies the device for use with Teams, or Skype for users still using SFB. Using the dongle will give you improved audio performance and connectivity performance as opposed to pairing native to the machine which the BT chipset can vary and may not handle audio as well as other machines etc. This is why we recommend it for most users.
Summary
As you can see, through all three partners, they have similar options on using a USB Dongle versus pairing headset to Bluetooth. Having a USB dongle is critical for having a better sound, connection, and overall better experience. Want to learn more? Check out our latest video:
https://www.calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Dongle-Blog-graphic-V4.jpg10691900Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-01-14 16:25:402021-01-14 16:25:43Why Do I Need a USB Dongle vs Pairing the Headset Directly to a Computer?
When we perform headset mic tests, we have been including decibel readings to show decibel levels in the background. That may mean absolutely nothing to some so we created this blog to explain the various decibel levels. We are in no way experts in this field, however per the multiple online resources here is a general outline of decibel level ranges.
What Exactly Is A Decibel?
By Definition:
A unit used to measure the intensity of a sound or the power level of an electrical signal by comparing it with a given level on a logarithmic scale.
Sounds a little confusing, right? In a simpler term; a decibel is a way of measuring how loud something is. For example, a buzzing mosquito may be 15 decibels, where as a jet engine would be 150 decibels. Scientist have confirmed that anything louder than 85dB (decibels) is harmful to your hearing. Check out the chart below. Source
So What Do Decibels Have to Do With Our Mic Tests?
When we test headsets, we use a standard television as a noise source. On average, a normal television volume reading is around 60 decibels. Some headsets are able to drown out this background audio while others can not. So what happens when you bump the TV up to max volume? The decibel reading for that is just under 85, right around 70-80dB. Every headset we have tested thus far has not been able to drown out a reading that high. Maybe someday? We will see!
Check out the latest video where our very own, Danny Hayasaka, takes a deep dive into decibel level reading when testing headsets. Check out and subscribe to our YouTube Channel for similar videos.
https://www.calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Decibel_Blog-header-v2.jpg9561700Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-01-12 15:23:032021-01-13 14:51:06What’s the Decibel Level When We Test Headsets?
