Blackwire C215/ C225

Blackwire C215/ C225 Review

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The reality is just about every employee uses a mobile device (smartphone or tablet). While there are scores of Bluetooth headsets, sometimes customers are in search of a corded, lower cost option that offers durability and great audio quality. The Plantronics Blackwire C215/ C225 offers just that with these two variants:

What’s in the Box: First off, there is no box. Headsets come packaged in plastic bag. You get the single or dual ear headset and a Quick Start Guide.

Blackwire C215/ C225Blackwire C215/ C225

At first glance: They look just like the Plantronics Blackwire 310 and 320. Of course upon closer inspection you’ll find they are not USB. They terminate in a 3.5mm plug.

Set Up & Use: Really not much to it. Plug into 3.5mm jack of mobile phone or tablet and you are connected. Please note if connected to PC via Soundcard its listen only. No transmit. It’s nice for listening to webinars or streaming media. The headset is lightweight and speakers feel comfortable. The mic is flexible so you can bend so it’s closer to your mouth for optimal noise canceling. The headband is adjustable to fit most folks.

Blackwire C215/ C225

What I really dig is the inline control. It has an answer/hang up button, mute switch (you can visibly see “red” when muted) and even volume control.

Blackwire C215/ C225

Other nice feature for easy storage and portability is the speakers fold flat.

Blackwire C215/ C225

The audio quality is really good especially with dual ear model if listening to music. Reminder about the inline volume control. I had inline volume on low initially and wasn’t digging audio quality. Then I turned up the volume and that made huge difference.

I made several test calls to include stationary while sitting on my desk and also walking around the office. The noise canceling mic is ok. Good enough especially for sub $40 headset with inline controls.

Overall this is a nice addition to the Plantronics portfolio in terms of having multiple options/solutions for the ever changing communications and collaboration landscape. More and more workers are using their mobile devices to communicate and collaborate. Some like the stability a headband headset offers vs smaller in the ear or over the ear Bluetooth solutions. Some companies don’t allow Bluetooth at all so the Plantronics Blackwire C215/ C225 are good options.

How to show co-workers Your Status

Are you busy? How to show co-workers your status

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Are you wondering how to show co-workers your status if you’re working in office or even working from home to avoid distractions? Before we added our Kuando Omega Busylights it was somewhat chaotic. As most know who follow this blog, we are 100% Microsoft Lync/Skype for Business. First thing to go were our desk phones as folks opted for headsets or USB speakerphones.

However we had some issues. Because we actively sell multiple devices from various manufacturers, we have a mix of Plantronics, Jabra, Sennheiser, Logitech, VXi, and Microsoft headsets. Not all brands offer “online indicator lights” and the ones that do, all look different.

The Jabra busy light only works with certain Jabra Wireless Headset models. The same is true for the Plantronics brand. What if employee had corded headset or a brand other than Plantronics and Jabra?

How to show co-workers Your StatusHow to show co-workers Your Status

I had tested the Kuando Busylight and it was pretty sweet. It was USB so it was headset/device brand agnostic. Not only did it indicate if you were online or not, it also showed your Microsoft Lync Presence status. Available (Green) – Do Not Disturb (Purple) – Busy (Red) and Away (Yellow)

How to show co-workers Your Status

One issue…light was too small. You had to be right up a person to see their status. Then I learned about the Kuando Omega busylight which was exactly what we were looking for. Bigger light that can be seen from a distance.

How to show co-workers Your Status

They are so much more than online indicator lights that show Presence status.

Skype for Business

1st class designed software

How to show co-workers Your Status

Never miss a call

  • Rings and/or flashes on incoming calls
  • Adjustable volume

Message waiting indication

  • Notification alert on missed calls/IMs
  • Flashes every 4 sec. to indicate a missed call

Presence indication

  • Avoids interruptions while on a call or busy
  • Lights up your Lync/SfB presence to inform nearby colleagues if you are available or not

Lync Call Handling tools – valuable hot keys

  • Fast dial out – copy phone number and press hot key.
  • Answer call – press hot key to answer/end call
  • Busy on busy –redirect a 2nd call to destination for unanswered calls (call group/voice mail/?) (If you are on the phone, and someone else is calling you – what happens?)

Now I can look out across the sales floor and “see” everyone’s presence status. We even got creative and affixed lights above private office doors so people coming to our office can “see” if we are available or not.

 

If you are in a UC environment that is supported by Kuando and are curious on how to show co-workers your status this may be an option for you to consider.

Click here for more info on Kuando Busylight UC – Implementation

Can I extend the range of my Bluetooth headset in a UC environment?

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By Danny Hayasaka

January 11, 2016

I’m speaking for Microsoft Lync/Skype for Business only, however, I’m certain many UC platforms support this feature.

Plantronics, Jabra, Sennheiser, and VXi all produce multi-connectivity Bluetooth headsets that allow end-users to pair Bluetooth headset to their mobile device as well as their PC/Laptop via USB Bluetooth dongle.

Despite many of the UC Bluetooth headsets supporting Class 1 range (up to 100ft range), many users would like more range.

The majority if not all professionals have a mobile device (Smartphone/Tablet) at all times.

Here’s a tip I have used to increase the wireless roaming range within an office space. I simply utilize the “Simultaneously Ring” and “Call Forwarding” features of our Microsoft Lync/Skype for Business client. I have all Lync/SfB calls forwarded to my mobile device if I’m going to be away from my desk. This allows all calls to ring on my mobile device, whether I’m on the Sales Floor, Admin, IT, Operations area downstairs or even on my way to lunch! I don’t miss a call as I have my mobile headset paired to my mobile phone.

In Lync/SfB you have the options to forward calls to: Voice Mail, Mobile, Home (phone), New Number or Contact, or My Delegates. You have the same options for the Simultaneously Ring feature.

For more detailed info on these Microsoft Lync/SfB Features go to: Set Call Forwarding options

I am currently using the Plantronics Voyager Edge UC however I have evaluated tons of Microsoft Lync/SfB Optimized/certified/compatible UC Bluetooth headsets to include: Plantronics Voyager Legend UC, Plantronics Voyager Focus UC, Jabra Motion UC, Jabra Stealth UC, Jabra Evolve 65 UC, Sennheiser Presence UC, Sennheiser MB Pro 1 and 2 UC & VXi Voxstar UC.

There are many options available when it comes to multi-connectivity Bluetooth headsets depending on your use case and wearing style preferences. You can choose from single ear, dual ear, over the ear, in the ear, and over the ear. The Plantronics Voyager  Focus UC offers Active Noise Canceling speaker option. The Jabra Stealth UC offers remote access to Siri /Google Now voice assistant. Each model offers a different list of feature functionality as well as varying talk times. Contact a UC headset specialist to help guide you in making the right choice for your business communications needs.

Here is a list of Mobile & Softphone Connectivity Headsets (These Bluetooth headsets pair to your mobile phone/tablet as well PC/Laptop via USB Bluetooth Dongle):

 

Plantronics BackBeat Fit

Plantronics BackBeat Fit 1,100+ miles later

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It’s a new year and new challenges and goals to stay fit. Last time I wrote about the Plantronics BackBeat FIT was in June 2015. At that time I had logged 408.4 miles wearing them. It’s January 5th and I have now logged 1,111.1 miles wearing my Plantronics BackBeat FIT. Regardless of whether I ran 1 mile or 13.1 miles… the BackBeat FIT stayed connected/paired to my iPhone 6 Plus and the music streamed wonderfully.

Plantronics BackBeat Fit

Plantronics BackBeat Fit

This year I ran mainly in my where I currently reside; Melbourne/Viera, FL. I’ve had the privilege of running everywhere I traveled in 2015: Fairfield, NJ, Southbeach, FL, Jupiter Beach, FL, Cape Canaveral, FL, Cocoa Beach, FL, Indian Harbour Beach, FL,  St Pete Beach, FL and even El Centro, CA. I run mainly early morning or just as it’s getting dark so the scenery is quite nice.

Even when I’m not running the BackBeat FIT have been an awesome set of wireless earphones. After running I do an ab session and stretch. In the evening I do weight lifting or body weight strengthening exercises. Additionally I sprinkle HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) throughout the week. Whether I’m doing jumping jacks, jump squats, mountain climbers, or dreaded burpees, the BackBeat FIT stays on securely. All the others I had would fall out of my ears or fly off my head completely.

I do all the grocery shopping for our household. I absolutely love wearing my BackBeat FIT while grocery shopping. I especially love wearing them when I’m out shopping with the wife. While she’s off looking for the latest fashions, I’m off in my own world jamming out to my favorite songs.

It’s 2016. At some point this year I have set a goal of running a marathon distance. One morning I’ll wake up, put on my BackBeat FIT and go run 26.2 miles just because.

Since March of 2015 these puppies have been going strong. I sweat like crazy and they are still working. I have run in the rain…they are still working.

Reminder of some of the great features:

  • 8hrs of music playback
  • 6hrs of talk time
  • 14 days of standby time (this is perfect if you forget to charge)
  • Flexible
  • Sweat proof (P21 technology)
  • Control Music and Calls
  • Download free BackBeat FIT App to keep up with the latest firmware

They come in two flavors:

  • Plantronics BackBeat FIT Wireless Headphones- Blue (200450-01)
  • Plantronics BackBeat FIT – LimeBurst (green) Color (200460-01)

If you want something that stays put and just works…I highly recommend these.

Plantronics BackBeat Fit

VTech enters the audio conferencing phone ring…

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By Danny Hayasaka

December 23, 2015

There are multiple audio conferencing/speakerphone manufacturers. So why should anyone consider VTech ErisStation’s? Because VTech offers a much demanded feature: Completely wireless mics!!!

Some will say, wait a second…Revolabs offers wireless mics and speaker and Polycom offered wireless mics for a hot second. You’re right however the VTech ErisStation design and price may peak your interest.

Currently VTech ErisStation Conference Phones with Wireless Mics come in three flavors.

Let’s get right into the main differentiating feature: Portable DECT 6.0 microphones with Orbitlink Wireless Technology

The wireless mics are really the star here. How often do conference call participants have to “lean in” towards the speakerphone so they can be heard? We have weekly conference calls and I like to “walk and talk”. That can sometimes be a problem the further I get away from the mics of traditional speakerphones. Enter in the VTech ErisStation Conference Phone with Wireless Mics. I simply grab one of the mics and I can walk and talk to my heart’s content and still be heard clearly. Additionally, the other participants in the room can easily be heard by strategically placing the wireless mics around the table. And of course, the base station itself has two fixed mics (VCS704 and VCS754) (VCS702 has one fixed mic on base station).

The other cool feature is the wireless mics all have their little slots on the actual unit. You can easily see if mics have been returned for charging.

These units are feature packed!

  • Two-Year Standard Warranty
  • DECT 6.0 wireless microphones with Orbitlink Wireless Technology™
    • Place the wireless microphones anywhere in a conference room and enjoy interference-free, high-quality sound.
  • Ample Wireless Mic Talk Time
    • VCS704 and VCS754 provide up to 8 hours of wireless mic talk time
    • VCS702 provides up to 12 hours of wireless mic talk time
    • Up to 70 hours of standby time per wireless mic
  • Full room coverage
    • Choose models with one fixed and two wireless mics (VCS702) or two fixed and four wireless mics (VCS704, VCS754) for maximum room coverage and participation.
  • Premium sound quality
    • Thanks to features like full-duplex technology, digital mixing and audio equalization, nothing is lost in translation.
  • Charging built-in
    • Magnetic charging bays in the base phone ensure the wireless microphones are always charged and ready
  • VCS754 offers USB connection to PC/Laptop for use with softphones or to act as better PC speaker

For more detailed specifications and features you can check out VTech’s ErisStation website: http://businessphones.vtech.com/products/product_list/erisstation

I tested VCS704 initially and have to say I was impressed with the audio quality of the speaker. The feedback I received from the folks I called all state they can hear me loud and clear. Just for fun, I took the mic and went far enough away that I could no longer hear the speaker however, was told that I could still be heard. It’s highly unlikely anyone will roam 150-300ft away from base but it’s nice to know you can.

I know it’s a small thing but having set up multiple conference phones in my time, VTech ErisStations only have one cable going into the base unit. This may a huge thing in the way of cable management on conference room tables.

I also set up the VCS754 and connected to my PC via USB for use with Microsoft Lync/SfB. It doesn’t allow answer/hang up from unit itself but if you are using Lync or other PC softphone/UC platform, it’s nice to know you have this option for better audio quality conference calls with wireless mic capability. USB cable is included with purchase of VCS754.

Conference calls are given. They happen all the time. There are multiple conference room sizes/furniture configurations and varying amounts of people. There are times when there is a main speaker and there are times when all participants need to talk. Let them be heard by passing them the wireless mic offered by VTech’s ErisStations!

Is there a Training-Y for USB Headsets?

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By Danny Hayasaka

November 18, 2015

Even though I’ve mentioned it several times, I still get asked fairly regularly by our reps and customers. “Is there a Training-Y for USB Headsets?”, “Is there any way to connect two USB headsets to one USB port for training purposes?” or “Is there a USB splitter we use to connect two USB headsets so both headset users can hear and be heard?”

The answer is no. It’s not a USB headset manufacturer thing, it’s a PC thing. A PC only recognizes one audio path and device. For instance, I have several USB audio devices connected to my PC however, I can only use one at a time for voice calls and for streaming audio.

For Lync/SfB calls I can select audio device I want. For audio from PC I go into my Control Panel, go to Sound and select the audio device and set as my default.

Believe me, I have tried to “trick” the system by using a multi-USB adapter but was unsuccessful.

If you are an organization that utilizes softphones and requires “buddy jacks”, “peer training”, needs to have two individuals be able to listen and talk in real time to the same call…you can’t do it with a hardwired USB headset. Again, it’s not a USB headset manufacturer issue, it’s PC thing. I believe the same is true of Mac iOS, I’ll have to confirm when I get home.

For now the only device that allows TWO headsets to connect to one USB port for training purposes is the Jabra Link 265 with two Jabra QD headsets.

To my knowledge, this is currently the only option. If anyone knows of any other way to connect TWO USB hardwired headsets into a PC so both can receive/transmit via same call, please share.

 

Jabra Speak 810 Review

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Jabra recently introduced a new member to their Speak Series of USB speaker phones: Jabra Speak 810. It comes in two flavors:

These are in addition to the popular Speak 410 and 510 variants for smaller groups of 1-4 people:

First off I want to clarify that the Speak 810 is CORDED. Some of the marketing images are a little misleading (see below). The Speak 810 requires AC Power adapter (included) connected to power outlet in order to work. If connected to a PC/Laptop, you need a USB cable (included) in addition to AC power.

Jabra Speak 810 lifestyle

What’s in the box: Speak 810, AC Power Supply (various connection types), hardwired USB cable, hardwired 3.5mm jack cable

Jabra Speak 810
Jabra Speak 810
Jabra Speak 810
Jabra Speak 810
Jabra Speak 810
Jabra Speak 810
Jabra Speak 810

 

 

The Speak 810 has microphone range pick up of up to 15ft and supports up to 15 people in the room. We’ve been testing here in our conference room and usually have 18-20 people. The feedback I have received is positive. We can be heard clearly and we can hear the caller clearly. The Speak 810 uses DSP (Digital Signal Processing) technology and has Zoom Talk microphones which are intelligent directional microphones that focus on human voice and not noise. There are also answer/hang up buttons, volume up/down buttons as well as a mute button.

 

The Speak 810 supports Bluetooth (Class 1 – up to 328ft range for Class 1 supported devices) and NFC (Near Field Communication). Additionally it includes a 3.5mm jack cable to connect your smartphone or tablet directly for immediate conference calling. It’s firmware upgradeable via free Jabra Direct software.

It also has a nice cord management system on the underside.

A cool feature is the USB charge out port that allows you to recharge your smartphone or tablet. Plus it includes a Kensington lock. Jabra and Kensington have the Jabra Lock It Up Promotion through November 30, 2015 where you can get a FREE Kensington Microsaver® Micro DS Lock when you purchase a Jabra SPEAK 810 UC or MS (A $54.99 Value)!!!

As more and more organizations utilize UC, VoIP softphones and web-based conferencing solutions, the need for larger USB speakerphones are needed. All companies have multiple conference rooms of varying sizes. While the Speak 410 and 510 are great for small huddle rooms, they aren’t sufficient for larger meetings. This is where the Jabra Speak 810 comes into play or as we have come to call it, “the hoverboard”.

 

Lack of employee training reduces UC adoption. I would like to add that not having the right device also hinders UC adoption/success…

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By Danny Hayasaka

October 16, 2015

Yes, it’s true that UC adoption suffers due to lack of employee training. I remember in our company when we first deployed Microsoft Lync (now Skype for Business), the individuals more involved understood and were aware of all the great features that were available to them. However, not everyone did and there was a lot of pushback, complaints, etc. Being device specialists, we had our pick of devices. Initially, everyone had desk phones optimized for Lync. After about three months, the majority of employees had removed their desk phones and opted for wireless headsets (single and multi-connectivity) and/or USB speakerphones. And of course they have a USB webcam for video calls and we have conference cam in a conference room for voice/video calls.

As a communications and collaboration specialist, I encounter several scenarios daily where customers are simply unaware of all the feature/functionality their UC platform offers.

We often get calls from customers who have had a UC platform for months or longer and have just now discovered they can “click to call”. They thought all they had was Presence and IM capabilities. Of course, now they want a “USB Headset”. As we probe a little more to understand their daily routine, we come to find in many situations, customers need more than just a USB corded headset.

I say this because often times when organizations are budgeting for a UC platform, they tend to budget $30 for a USB corded headset. Unfortunately, in most cases, that isn’t the solution. Organizations need to take time to consult with a communications and collaboration devices specialist who can walk them through the various options.

Every organization has various use cases, employee types, environments, and applications. It’s important to develop employee profiles and understand how they work on a daily basis. Are they desk-centric meaning they spend 90% or more of their day at their desks. Are they office-mobile? Meaning they spend part of their day at their desks and the other part moving about the office. Are they mobile? These are your “road warriors” who spend their time in cars, lobbies, planes, trains, hotel rooms, etc. Additionally, there are different environments. You can’t use a $30 USB corded headset in a conference room. You need different devices. What about in a lobby or other common areas?

Then, of course, we need to understand if they have multiple devices i.e. Laptop/PC, Desk Phone and/or Mobile device. Would it be beneficial to connect to all three or any combination of the three or two? Device manufacturers today offer solutions that allow multi-connectivity.

Wait there’s more, which UC platform? There are multiple headsets, phone, audio conferencing, and video conferencing device manufacturers however only a select few offers Optimized, Certified, Interoperable, Compatible with the various UC platforms. A communications and collaboration device specialist can help customers navigate through the overwhelming options and narrow down the choices to the appropriate devices so their employees utilize the UC platform more effectively. Of course, it is important for the organization to do its best to provide training. Our organization has provided this type service in the past and is strongly considering making it a regular line item as we know from our own experience how challenging it can to get employees to utilize the new UC platform.

 

 

“What is the best Bluetooth headset?”

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May 28, 2015

By Danny Hayasaka

I’m often asked, “What is the best Bluetooth headset?” The answer is always, “That depends”.

Let’s first understand Bluetooth. Bluetooth isn’t a mystical, magical power. It’s short-range wireless technology. There are currently three main wireless range categories for Bluetooth.

  • Class 3 – up to 3ft range
  • Class 2 – up to 33ft range – Most commonly found in mobile devices
  • Class 1 – up to 300ft – certain commercial grade Bluetooth headsets offer this range

Additionally, there are various versions, profiles and protocol stacks. Perhaps in another blog, we can get into those. For now, let’s focus on Bluetooth headsets.

Like any other communications and collaboration device, the use case will determine which headset is most appropriate. Because our company focuses on B2B, I’ll narrow my options to commercial/professional grade products. There are a TON of consumer-grade Bluetooth headsets available. I focus on business communications devices.

We’ll need to understand the environment. Is user in private office, open office, car, airport, coffee shop, etc.? Additionally we’ll need to understand the application, is it FaceTime, Skype, Google + Hangouts or is it an enterprise-grade UC platform like Microsoft Skype for Business/Lync, Cisco Jabber, or other. In addition to a mobile device, will the user need to connect to a PC or laptop? What about a desk phone?

How, what, when and where to start to determine which Bluetooth headset will be the better fit. Additionally, personal wearing style preferences also help you to choose.

Here are some suggestions for Bluetooth headsets based on use case:

  • Commercial Drivers or users in very noisy areas will require strong noise canceling mics and extremely long talk times. There are no better than VXi when it comes to noise canceling mics and 20+Hrs of talk time:
    • VXi BlueParrott Bluetooth Headsets (single connectivity however you can order VXi BT2 USB Adapter for connectivity to PC/Laptop)
      • VXi B350-XT+ (24hrs talk time)
      • B250-XT+ (20+ hrs talk time)
    • Microsoft Skype for Business/Lync Mobile Users – Laptop and Mobile connectivity
      • Plantronics Voyager Edge UC-M (B255-M)
      • Plantronics Voyager Legend UC M (B235-M)
      • Jabra Stealth UC-MS
      • Jabra Motion UC-MS
      • Jabra Motion UC+ MS
      • Sennheiser Presence UC ML
    • Unified Communications (Cisco, Avaya, etc.) Mobile Users – Laptop and Mobile
      • Plantronics Voyager Edge UC (B255)
      • Plantronics Voyager Legend UC M (B235)
      • Jabra Stealth UC
      • Jabra Motion UC
      • Jabra Motion UC+
      • Sennheiser Presence UC
      • VXi VoxStar UC

BlueParrott Reveal Review

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BlueParrott is already known for having the best noise canceling mics in the Bluetooth world with their BlueParrott B250, B20-XT+, and new B350-XT. However, some folks aren’t fans of those larger, headband style only Bluetooth headsets.

I actually had a glimpse of a beta unit a while back so I was excited to finally receive my BlueParrott Reveal.

BlueParrott Reveal Review

What’s in the box? Reveal Bluetooth Headset, Carrying Case, USB Cable, Car Charger, 4 ear buds, 2 earhooks, and a User’s Guide.

At first glance: The BlueParrott Reveal is very different form factor from what I’m accustomed to from VXi. It’s smaller than any other Bluetooth headset VXi has produced.

BlueParrott Reveal Review

Set Up & Use: The VXi Reveal offers Bluetooth and NFC connectivity. I have an iPhone 6 Plus so I paired via Bluetooth. When you first turn on headset, it goes into pair mode. Go to Bluetooth menu on phone and select Reveal.

You have four contoured ear buds to choose from plus a couple ear hooks. I tried all and settled on the small bud with ear hook. For me, that was the most comfortable.

 

 

 

 

BlueParrott Reveal offers these features and functions:

  • Volume Up/Mute
  • Volume Down
  • Extendable Microphone Boom
  • On/Off Switch
  • Indicator Lights
  • Multifunction Button
  • NFC Zone

BlueParrott Reveal Review

When it came to using on calls, BlueParrott Reveal didn’t disappoint with the noise canceling mic. One of the cool features is the ability to extend the mic when in noisier conditions however, the noise canceling capability was pretty good even with mic boom not extended. The speaker quality is very good as well. I can hear clearly and it’s loud enough.

The BlueParrott Reveal  offers over 7hrs of talk time, supports streaming music or GPS directions and allows you to connect to two Bluetooth devices so like your smartphone and tablet.

Make your phone a walkie-talkie with the free BlueParrott Push-to-Talk App (Android/iOS).

I have been digging this new Bluetooth headset by BlueParrott. Happy to see they were able to reduce the size of the headset and still maintain a strong noise canceling mic.