If you’ve ever given a presentation or conducting training and required a PowerPoint slide deck or other, you may have experienced the inconvenience of having to walk back to the mouse to change slides or, ask a member of the audience to become designated “Next slide please” person.
Meet Logitech Spotlight! A wireless presentation remote packed full of great features!
Available in three colors:
Gold: PN 910-004860
Slate: PN 910-004654
Silver: PN 910-004984
What’s in the box: Presentation remote, Proprietary receiver, User documentation, Charging cable and Pouch
In order to gain access to all the cool features, you need to download the free Logitech Presentation software available for Windows and Mac.
Plantronics introduced their new Plantronics EncorePro Digital Series, EncorePro USB Series headsets and the DA90 USB to 6pin QD adapter. I finally got my hands on some. To see what they are all about.
These are all the current available EncorePro variants:
203442-01 HW515 USB Over-the-head, monaural, noise-canceling
203444-01 HW525 USB Over-the-head, stereo, noise-canceling
203446-01 HW535 USB Over-the-ear
203474-01 HW545 USB Convertible Headset, 3 Different Wearing Styles
203476-01 HW715 USB Over-the-head, monaural, noise canceling
203478-01 HW725 USB Over-the-head, stereo, noise canceling
At first glance they look like exactly like the current EncorePro Series variants so what’s the difference? What are the main changes?
Digital Memory
Model Number
Serial Number
Headset Inventory management support when used with Plantronics Manager Pro software (subscription service)
6 Pin QD Connector (EncorePro Digital variants)
True Stereo for binaural models
One of the main points you need to be aware of is that currently, the NEW EncorePro Digital Series have a 6-Pin QD which currently only connects to DA90.
There are some accessories coming that will allow end-users to connect standard EncorePro Series to DA90 (4 to 6 Pin Adapter) and NEW EncorePro Digital series to connect to DA70/80 (6 to 4 pin adapter). Plus there is a 6-Pin Training-Y Cable on the way.
More and more companies are adopting/deploying softphones or web-based collaboration tools that require USB headsets. Someone has to support those devices. Because of the applications/platforms being used, it typically falls on IT to manage and support those assets.
I think Plantronics is on the right track as they look forward. These new EncorePro Digital Series along with the DA90 and Plantronics Manager Pro empowers IT Managers with easy-to-use tools to monitor, manage, and maintain every Plantronics headset across the enterprise.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/909.jpg386864Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2016-11-21 16:39:092021-03-09 14:04:37Plantronics EncorePro Digital Series – What are the changes?
I write a lot about multiple devices and solutions and I am often asked, “Since you get to choose whatever you want…what do you use?”
The answer… it depends on which Partner is onsite visiting. Only joking. Seriously though, I do get to try multiple devices from multiple brands/partners and I do have my pick. First, let me talk about my communications and collaboration environment.
I have a private office but I also spend time out on the sales floor. My main modes of communication are my Dell PC with wireless Logitech K350 Wave keyboard/ MX Master mouse and Mobile phone (Apple iPhone 6s Plus). You’d be amazed at what a difference a good keyboard and mouse can do to improve/increase productivity. I use Microsoft Lync/SfB on PC for voice and video calls. Additionally, I have access to Skype, Google Hangouts, Fuze, RingCentral, Zoom and others.
I have Sennheiser SP10 ML USB, Jabra Speak 510 and Konftel Ego speakerphones but currently using the Sennheiser SP10 ML for speakerphone calls.
I have been using the Plantronics Voyager 5200 UC for my mobile calls and when I switch from speakerphone to headset.
I flip between Logitech C930e and Microsoft LifeCam Cinema webcams. I also have the new Logitech C925e but I stick between the C930e and Cinema. Main difference between those two models? Field of view. The Logitech C930e offers a 90 degree field of view. The Microsoft LifeCam Cinema offers a 73 degree field of view. If I am having video call and I have 3-5 other people in my office, I use the Logitech C930e. If I’m the only one on video, I’ll use the Microsoft LifeCam Cinema.
When I leave the office, my mobile phone is my primary communication device which means the Plantronics Voyager 5200 UC goes with me. The four-mic array and adaptive DSP along with six layers of Plantronics unique WindSmart technology have greatly improved noise cancelling feature compared to past models. Whether I’m walking the sales floor, in my car or in a noisy airport my voice can be heard.
So there you have it. For the moment here’s what I use:
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/What-devices-do-I-use-to-communicate-and-collaborate-2.png7501500Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2016-11-17 21:32:432021-03-19 12:11:28What devices do I use to communicate and collaborate?
Conference rooms and huddle spaces need inexpensive, easy to use, platform agnostic devices. It’s been really fascinating to watch the evolution of the meeting space. I remember conference rooms, the analog speakerphone and using a conference call service to connect multiple participants. Oh, and paying by the minute.
Video was added to enhance the experience. It required expensive codecs, hardware, bridges, managed services and a degree from MIT to operate. So the reality was video conferencing wasn’t used and the codecs sat there and collected dust.
Nowadays there are so many options for audio and video meetings via Microsoft Lync/Skype for Business, Cisco Jabber, Zoom, Google Hangouts, Skype, WebEx, GoToMeeting, Vidyo, BlueJeans, Adobe Connect, Fuze, ReadyTalk, and on and on. Additionally, meeting spaces can now be anywhere from the traditional conference rooms to huddle spaces.
With so many options, the need for platform agnostic devices has increased. Additionally, customers are in search of “easy”. How do they video enable a room easily, inexpensively and doesn’t require a specialized degree or certification to operate?
Fortunately, there are plenty of options from multiple vendors. That’s the other fantastic thing that has occurred…customers are no longer tied to “one” brand for a complete solution. They can mix and match depending on need and budget.
You can use devices from Logitech, Jabra, Plantronics, EPOS | Sennheiser, Konftel, Revolabs and more!!!
For personal use, you can use a USB/Bluetooth headset or USB/Bluetooth personal speakerphone and Webcam.
For small groups of 2-5 people, you can use a USB speakerphone and Webcam.
For groups of 6-10, you can go with ConferenceCams, USB speakerphones and Webcam or PTZ webcams.
For even larger groups you have options for ConferenceCams with extended mics, or more robust speakerphones with USB connections and PTZ Webcams.
All these solutions cost thousands of dollars less than traditional video conferencing solutions and they are extremely easy to use. Most are “plug and play”. Simply plug the USB cable into your PC or laptop and off you go.
What does this mean do inexpensive, platform agnostic, easy to use devices mean for business?
Increased user adoption, more collaboration and decreased IT Help Desk trouble tickets.
Below are listed some examples of products that can be used to video enable a space and are inexpensive Conference Huddle Spaces. There are more from other manufacturers/brands. Below are some of the more popular, tested/certified webcams and speakerphones:
Many communications and collaboration platforms in the enterprise space requires the use of USB headsets and devices. With that comes some challenges in the enterprise space for end-users and IT departments. Plantronics Manager Pro and Plantronics Hub offer a great solution.
From Plantronics Manager Pro and Plantronics Hub data sheet:
Plantronics Manager Pro and Plantronics Hub, both part of our Plantronics Spokes software offering, work together to give enterprises total control and flexibility over their Plantronics audio headsets and devices.
Plantronics Manager Pro is a web-based service that gives IT Managers easy-to-use tools to configure settings and update audio device software and firmware for end-users across the enterprise. Plantronics Manager Pro leverages a cloud-based architecture and offers reporting tools that provide new insights into your communications environment.
Plantronics Hub for Windows/Mac is a client application that works with Plantronics Manager Pro and allows end users to control the settings on their Plantronics audio device within the parameters established by IT.
Problems:
IT needs to modify audio device settings for hundreds of users to comply with company policy
IT wants to evaluate the effectiveness of their UC deployment, seeing which users are not using their headset
IT needs to push a firmware update to hundreds of users
IT wants to keep track of their audio device inventory
IT needs to troubleshoot user issues from a remote location
Solution: Plantronics Manager Pro with Plantronics Hub for Windows/Mac
Plantronics Manager Pro
SIMPLIFY ADMINISTRATION OF PLANTRONICS DEVICES
View a summary of all audio devices and Plantronics Hub software at a glance
Easily schedule and deploy device firmware upgrades
Adjust and implement setting configurations to ensure a seamless end user experience while locking in regulatory compliance settings
Configure devices quickly and consistently, at a time that works best for managers and end users
Conveniently troubleshoot and diagnose user issues from a remote location
GAIN DETAILED INSIGHT
Generate inventory and usage reports for all audio devices in your organization
View what softphone version is being used with Plantronics products across your organization
Identify compatibility conflicts between softphone and Plantronics Hub versions
Improve user performance and experience by ensuring compatibility between audio device firmware and softphone application
Plantronics Hub
EMPOWER USER PRODUCTIVITY
Enable device-level call control with call answer/end, mute, and volume adjust with supported softphone and UC clients
Access intuitive user features such as visible mute status, battery status, and mute control
Avoid disrupting normal workflow with silent installation option
For more information or to receive a quote for Plantronics Manager Pro, please contact your Authorized Plantronics Reseller.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Plantronics-Manager-Pro-and-Plantronics-Hub-for-WindowsMac.png4901177Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2016-09-29 18:42:162020-12-16 11:29:32Plantronics Manager Pro and Plantronics Hub for Windows/Mac
More and more businesses/workers are using soft phones and mobile devices to communicate and collaborate. While there are multiple wireless solutions available, many customers want simple corded solutions that are portable and easy to use. The top headset manufacturers have answered the call and developed headsets that connect to your laptop/PC via USB and also allow you to connect to mobile device via 3.5mm connection.
Now folks can use the same headset for PC/Laptop as well as their mobile device. Additionally, all include carry case for portability.
Plantronics USB + 3.5mm Options:
Blackwire C315 Monaural (204440-02) and C315-M Monaural – Microsoft (204440-01)
Blackwire C325 Stereo (204446-02) and C325-M Stereo – Microsoft (204446-01)
Jabra USB + 3.5mm Options:
Jabra Evolve 80 Stereo MS (7899-823-109) and Jabra Evolve 80 Stereo UC (7899-829-209)
Jabra Evolve 40 MS Mono (6393-823-109) and Jabra Evolve 40 UC Mono (6393-829-209)
Jabra EVOLVE 40 MS Stereo (6399-823-109) and Jabra EVOLVE 40 UC Stereo (6399-829-209)
Sennheiser USB + 3.5mm Options:
Sennheiser SC 45 USB MS (507083)
Fkas;dfk
Sennheiser SC 75 USB MS (507086)
Uadfada;
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/USB-and-3.5mm-Connectivity-Headsets-2.png7501500Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2016-07-22 21:01:002019-03-06 18:44:27USB and 3.5mm Connectivity Headsets
One major complaint customers had who have used Sennheiser (now EPOS | Sennheiser) wireless headsets is the over-the-ear wearing style just wasn’t good. Sennheiser has introduced a new ear hook accessory HSA 20 that is designed to offer an improved, flexible and perfect fit to the already existing SD Office and D10 wireless headsets. Today we’re looking at the Earhook for Sennheiser wireless headsets below.
A click-on adapter fitting the SD Office and D10 headsets is used for mounting the new improved ear hook featuring a soft leatherette sleeve.
Improved noise isolation and a secure fit are offered with in-ear earbuds in three different sizes (S, M, L) that are mounted on the adapter for the perfect individual fit and optimal wearing comfort.
I was fortunate enough to actually get some of these hooks to test for myself. Of course, I couldn’t write or talk about my experience until now.
Initial thoughts… why didn’t they do this sooner? I’m not huge over the ear fan but I tell you what… this was a very comfortable fit. The SD Office and D10 headsets are super light as it is, the stability this new ear hook accessory HSA 20 offered was very nice.
It’s funny how when people test wearing style stability people shake their heads around like they’re at a metal concert but really? Who does that in an office environment? Don’t answer that. I did bend over to pick something up off the floor and other normal daily movements. The headset stayed in place.
I was able to wear all day comfortably. Really like the soft leatherette sleeve. You don’t think it makes that big a difference, but it does.
And yes you can easily switch out the hook for right or left ear wear.
If you have a Sennheiser SD Office or D10 wireless headset but weren’t too keen on the over the ear wearing style… you may want to consider the new Sennheiser earhook accessory HSA 20.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/New-ear-hook-give-Sennheiser-wireless-headsets-a-whole-new-feel….png517800Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2016-05-17 16:37:492021-03-18 12:08:14New Earhook for Sennheiser wireless headsets
No one can complain about Sennheiser’s audio quality. However, many customers did complain about the over the ear wearing style for their convertible wireless headset models. Sennheiser has remedied this by developing and producing a new more comfortable ear hook for the SD Office, DW Office, and D10 variants.
It’s the Ear Hook, Adapter and earbuds set. Product Code: 506524
What’s in the package? Ear Hook, Adapter and 3 sets of earbuds: Small, Medium and Large
Attaching the adapter to Sennehiser Office series headset “a snap”. You can easily switch from right ear to left ear wearing style simply by changing the Ear Hook itself. The earbuds are easy to change out as well. I really dig the thin super soft leatherette sleeve wrapped around ear hook. Makes for more comfortable wearing.
Maybe you’ve been on the fence about trying a Sennheiser SD Office or D10 because of the over-the-ear wearing style. Here’s an opportunity for you to revisit. And I’m not even an over the ear fan. I personally prefer in the ear, behind the neck or headband. This Ear hook for the Sennheiser SD was so lightweight I barely noticed I had it on.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Much-more-comfortable-ear-hook-for-Sennheiser-SD-Office-DW-Office-and-D10-2-1.png7501500Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2016-04-25 16:33:572021-03-30 14:42:23Much more comfortable ear hook for Sennheiser SD Office, DW Office and D10!
Wireless headsets are much more prevalent in the workspace. I remember many, many years ago the first wireless headsets by ACS then GN Netcom. And of course, Plantronics (now Poly) joined in and took the market by storm. Now all major headset manufacturers offer wireless solutions. I remember how hard it was to get businesses other than call centers to even consider trying corded headsets. Jabra offers the PRO 900 Series Wireless Headsets, which is what we’re looking at today.
When wireless headsets finally became affordable we couldn’t keep enough on our shelves. There is no question wireless headsets increase productivity. What’s been happening over the past decade is a shift in how businesses/people communicate and collaborate. Most businesses don’t have just one method. They have desk phones, softphones, web-based collaboration platforms and of course mobile devices.
Wireless headset manufacturers began developing multi-connectivity wireless headset options to fit the varying connectivity requirements. While extremely beneficial for multiple businesses…there is still a need for a more simple solution.
What I like about the Jabra Pro 900 series is the simplicity. They are easy to set up and use. They have great talk time, very good audio quality and well… they just work.
I think customers/vendors sometimes forget this series exists. I also think there is some confusion with the multiple Jabra PRO 900 Series variants. I’ll try and simplify.
The Jabra PRO 900 Series has four main connectivity options:
Why so many variants? Jabra recognizes the increase in wireless headset use. To help address wireless density issues, they offer DECT and Bluetooth options. If the model ends in “0” it’s DECT. If the model ends in “5” it’s Bluetooth. The Jabra PRO 920 Mono is DECT. The PRO 935 Single Connectivity would be Bluetooth.
Now that you know which models are which…here’s what makes the Jabra PRO 900 Series winners:
TALK TIME!!!
Up to 8hrs – PRO 920 and PRO 930 variants
Up to 12hrs – PRO 925 and PRO 935 variants
Conference up to 4 Headsets on one base
Great for Training purposes and multi-shift scenarios
Jabra Xpress for mass deployments, asset management, and maintenance
1 Year Warranty
Mono Variants Convertible
Headband and Over the ear (This is probably my only con. Ear hook, not the most comfortable if worn for long periods of time – at least for me)
Dual Connectivity Variants
Desk Phone and Mobile
Softphone and Mobile – It just works. Once mobile is paired it connects as soon as you are in proximity automatically
Really Good Audio Quality
I’ve had no complaints in reference to receive volume
Audio is clearly heard
Transmit quality also good – no negative feedback
And of course… THE LOW PRICE!
If you are in search of a simple, good quality wireless headset that just works at a low price….then you need to check out the Jabra PRO 900 Series…
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Jabra-Pro-900-Series-header-2.jpg5051500Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2016-04-21 16:03:512020-12-07 11:59:53Jabra PRO 900 Series Wireless Headsets
