How Agent in a Box Delivered

How Call One, Inc’s Agent in a Box service helped to deliver thousands of Headsets

Call One, Inc. Agent in a Box service was designed to help businesses simplify delivery of the technology individual employees need to do their business better.

The Challenge: The technology and devices an employee needs to work often spans across multiple brands. They might need a headset, a webcam, speakerphone, monitor, docking station, cabling, etc. Typically, organizations source the different components from multiple vendors. Then often have different shipping and delivery dates. This causes delays and makes it difficult for IT teams or individual employees.

The Solution: Call One, Inc. Agent in a Box.

  • One Vendor
  • One Delivery
  • Hardware & Cabling
  • Imaging & Asset Tagging
  • All in one box

Here’s a real-life example of how Call One, Inc.’s Agent in a Box helped to deliver thousands of headsets and required cabling to help simplify IT teams to deploy the solution.

Customer: Fortune 100 Transportation Company

Use Case: New Phone System was implemented and needed new headsets and cabling for each workstation. They requested single ear and dual ear kits that included a single or dual ear headset, phone cable and USB adapter cable. Customer was looking for a way to make staging easier for their teams to deploy thousands of headsets and cables.

Solution: Call One, Inc. Agent in a Box – Our team created two kits. Palletized them and shipped to appropriate location.

The end result, customer received entire delivery on the same day. The individually labeled boxes helped to reduce time in staging and physically deploying since all the components needed were in one box.

If you would like to learn more about Call One, Inc. Agent in a Box contact us, M-F, 8am-5pm ET at 1-800-749-3160 or sales@calloneonline.com. For more information about the Agent in a Box service, continue here.

Huddly IQ Auto Framing Feature | Tutorial

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.

Huddly IQ Zoom

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!

Poly Studio P5 Overview header

Poly Studio P5 Overview | How Does it Perform?

The Poly Studio P5 webcam is part of a broad Poly Studio P Series portfolio of personal video conferencing devices. In this blog/video, we provide an overview of the P5 webcam, pricing, management via Poly Lens Desktop and finally we test the video and audio quality to include a side by side between built-in laptop camera and Poly Studio P5.

The P Series

With the Studio P Series, make the most of video calls wherever you’re working. The Poly Studio P Series personal video devices ensure you always look and sound your best. High-performance cameras compensate for lighting imbalances, while Poly’s premium audio is fine-tuned to help you focus and eliminate distractions. IT gains robust cloud management and troubleshooting of every device from anywhere.

What does the Poly Studio P5 feature?

  • Precision-tuned webcam
  • Status LED on the camera
  • Built in USB Port for connecting to a Poly headset
  • Always look professional with exceptional camera optics that are optimized for video conferencing
  • Make sure you’re heard clearly with a built-in directional microphone that focuses on your voice, not the noise around you
  • Enhance security and privacy, and ensure you are in control of when you are on camera with the integrated privacy shutter
  • Poly Lens cloud management gives IT powerful tools to manage and track devices from anywhere

Poly Studio P5

The Poly Studio P5 webcam ensures you look your best on video calls at home, in the office, or wherever you’re working. Exceptional camera optics are fine-tuned so you always come across clearly with a professional-quality image. Brilliant colors and automatic low light compensation deliver excellent video quality no matter where you need to take a call. The directional microphone focuses on your voice and not the noise around you. An integrated privacy shutter keeps you in control of when you are on camera for enhanced security and privacy. For IT, Poly Lens cloud management provides robust tools to manage and track devices from anywhere.

  • Exceptional camera optics
  • Automatic low-light compensation
  • Built-in directional microphone
  • Integrated privacy shutter
  • USB connection to wireless headset adapter

Take a look below at our video review of the Poly Studio P5 below and subscribe to our Youtube channel for similar videos. If you have any additional questions regarding the Studio P5, feel free to contact us.

Logitech C920e Webcam

Logitech C920e Webcam – How Does it Perform?

The Logitech C920e Business Webcam is a work-from-anywhere HD 1080p business webcam that surpasses the video and sound quality provided by most laptops. The low price point is ideal for deployment at scale. The C920e is ideal for displaying individuals in a well-balanced frame. The fixed 78° field of view captures a “just-right” view of the user and their environment while also providing sufficient room to visually share projects and other items of interest. There are dual integrated omnidirectional mics that can be easily enabled with Logi Tune Desktop app. When activated, the mics are optimized to clearly capture audio from up to one meter (3.3ft) away.

A rundown on the C920e

  • C920e is a work-from-anywhere HD 1080p webcam
  • 78° field of view
  • includes dual integrated omnidirectional mics that can be easily enabled with the Logi Tune Desktop app
  • Built-in HD autofocus

VERSATILE MOUNTING OPTIONS

Mount the webcam wherever it works best: screen, notebook, or tabletop. C920e is designed with a sturdy, adjustable clip that makes it easy to mount on any laptop or external monitor. Integrated tripod threads provide extra versatility to mount the webcam on a tabletop or full-size tripod as well. (Tripod sold separately)

ATTACHABLE PRIVACY SHADE

C920e features an attachable privacy screen that flips up and down to cover or expose the lens. A simple glance at the physical cover confirms for sure if the lens is able to see into your space or not.

BUSINESS READY BY DESIGN

The Logitech C920e Webcam works with all popular video calling applications, including BlueJeans, Cisco Webex®, Fuze, Google Meet, GoToMeeting®, Lifesize Cloud, Microsoft® Teams, Pexip, RingCentral Video, Skype™ for Business, Vidyo, and Zoom to ensure compatibility and seamless integration in the workplace. For the $70 price-tag, this webcam puts out a Stellar image. Not only that, it has decent audio quality too. It’s a no brainer! Check out how it performs below. Thanks for tuning in!

EPOS SP30 Yealink CP900

EPOS Expand SP30 vs Yealink CP900 | Speakerphone Comparison

The EPOS Expand SP 30+ and Yealink CP900 with BT50 dongle come in at an MSRP of $259. In this blog/video, we provide similarities and differences between them and then we have some fun. We do a mic pick range test and also a speaker audio test. Watch and listen for yourselves below. Between the EPOS SP30 and Yealink CP900, which one do you think sounds better to you?

If reading is more your style, check out the specs on these speakerphones:

Features

  • Optima HD voice
  • Microphone pickup range up to 6.5 feet / 2 meters
  • Full-duplex technology
  • Noise suppression (NS)
  • Digital Signal Processing (DSP)
  • Acoustic echo cancellation (AEC)

EPOS Expand SP30

Features

  • Experience plug-and-play conferencing anywhere Portable with Bluetooth® or USB-C connection, multipoint connectivity – for up to three devices
  • Get exceptional audio performance for conference calls, music and multimedia With EPOS VoiceTM technology, ultra-low distortion speaker and two echo and noise-cancelling microphones with advanced algorithms
  • Natural conversation experience With industry-leading duplex performance that allows simultaneous speech
  • Crafted to perfection From premium-quality materials in a compact, lightweight design with convenient cable winding and safe dongle storage
  • For personal or shared use In huddle rooms for up to eight participants with a choice of automatic or manual reconnection for an optimal user experience

During our test and direct comparison of the EPOS SP30 Yealink CP900, we found that both speakerphones do a tremendous job at outputting quality audio. That being said, you normally wouldn’t be blasting music out of one of these, but it’s still interesting to compare! For the price they are set at you can’t go wrong with either one. Your personal use case should be the deciding factor. Want to see the full run through? Check out our latest video below where we put them head-to-head:

ALL NEW Poly Studio P Series and Bundles – Personal Video Devices

Poly has introduced new solutions for the new and next normal! The Poly Studio P Series a series of personal video conferencing devices aimed to make remote feel less distant by providing professional-grade video devices for wherever work happens.

Hopefully, I get my hands on these devices soon so I can put out some videos to show the features, video and quality. For now, let’s take a look at what’s coming! Introducing the Poly Studio P Series!

Poly Studio P5

Poly Studio P Series

The Poly Studio P5 is a professional webcam that is designed for optimal performance during video calls.

  • The exceptional camera optics are optimized for video conferencing, giving users confidence they will always present a professional image.
  • Proper light exposure is maintained, even in darker rooms, with automatic low-light compensation. This is especially important in home offices, where the lighting in the room is typically insufficient.
  • Brilliant colors are designed to make you look your best and stand out from the background.
  • The camera field of view is 80 degrees – designed to show just you, but not too much of your surroundings.
  • The built-in direction microphone makes sure you’re heard clearly by focusing on your voice, and not the noise around you
  • For the best audio experience, Poly recommends you pair the Studio P5 up with one of the Poly headsets or personal speakerphones. Poly has made setup even easier by including a USB port right on the camera.
  • The status LED gives you quick confirmation of your call status and whether you’re on mute.
  • The camera body secures to the mounting clamp using a unique magnetized design, so it’s easy to set up and fits securely atop your laptop or display.
  • For added flexibility, you could also choose to attach it to a tripod mount.
  • The overall design is small and rugged, so it’s easy to take with you if you’re going between home and the office, or on the road
  • The Poly Lens Desktop app not only changes settings and keeps the camera’s firmware updated, but also helps with workspace setup and offer valuable health and wellness tips.
  • The Poly Lens cloud management gives IT powerful tools to manage and track devices from anywhere.
  • List Price $129
Poly Studio P5 graph

To make it easier to order and deploy, Poly is introducing the Poly Studio P5 Kits. Everything you need for a great audio and video experience, plus robust cloud management, all in one box that’s easy to buy and set up. There will be a range of options to support any workstyle.

Poly Studio P Series

POLY STUDIO P5 KIT
with Blackwire 3210

Professional webcam and single-ear corded headset

List Price $149
Poly Studio P Series

POLY STUDIO P5 KIT
with Blackwire 3325

Professional webcam and stereo corded headset

List Price $179

Poly Studio P Series

POLY STUDIO P5 KIT
with
Voyager 4220 UC

Professional webcam and stereo wireless headset

List Price $269

Poly Studio P Series

POLY STUDIO P5 KIT
with Poly Sync 20
+

Professional webcam and smart speakerphone

List Price $239

Poly Studio P15

Poly Studio P Series P15

The Poly Studio P15 is ideal for dedicated home offices and enclosed workspaces looking for the best audio and video performance. It includes everything you need in one sleek device, with advanced features that deliver a top-of-the-line experience. Just place it right on top of your display, connect to power and USB to your laptop, and you’re ready to go. You can even tripod-mount it for added flexibility. And just like all products in Studio P Series, the P15 can be remotely managed by IT using Poly Lens, including the advanced audio and video features.

The Poly Studio P15 is ideal for dedicated home offices and enclosed workspaces looking for the best audio and video performance. It includes everything you need in one sleek device, with advanced features that deliver a top-of-the-line experience. Just place it right on top of your display, connect to power and USB to your laptop, and you’re ready to go. You can even tripod-mount it for added flexibility. And just like all products in Studio P Series, the P15 can be remotely managed by IT using Poly Lens, including the advanced audio and video features.

  • 4K Resolution
  • High-performance image sensor
  • Optimized field of view
  • Automatic low-light compensation and brilliant colors
  • Automatic camera framing
Poly P15

Automatic camera framing is technology first developed for Poly’s meeting room solutions. In a personal use case, you want to be sure the camera is framed properly, even when you aren’t staying still. You may want to stand up while presenting. Or perhaps you have and adjustable standing desk. Or maybe you just don’t want to feel forced to stay glued to your chair all day. Studio P15 senses when you aren’t centered on camera and automatically adjusts. So all you have to worry about is the content of your meeting, and the system makes sure you’re seen clearly.

  • Integrated privacy shutter
  • Integrated speaker with acoustic suspension
  • Advanced microphone array
  • NoiseBlockAI and Acoustic Fence technology

NoiseBlockAI listens for your voice and filters out other sounds in your workspace that could be a distraction. This includes keyboard typing, paper shuffling, fans and heaters, and other noises that are common in personal workspaces. Acoustic Fence listens for sounds and voices coming from outside your workspace – side conversations, other family members in your house, airplane and traffic noise, and more. These two technologies work together to keep the distractions that often occur when working remote from becoming a distraction during your calls. The list price for the Poly Studio P15 is $599

Poly Studio P21

P21

The Poly Studio P21 is ideal for users who want one device that handles the entire calling experience – video, audio, and display, all in one. Just plug it into power and connect your laptop over a single USB cable, and that’s it – you’re ready to go! Use any video app on your laptop, and Studio P21 gives you a dedicated display, and handles the entire audio and video experience. It’s the perfect balance between the simplicity of a dedicated video system, with the flexibility of working with any video app of your PC or Mac. When you’re not in meetings, you can use it as a second display for your laptop to give you more screen space. Plus, the thoughtful, stylish design will fit right into any workspace.

P21
  • Everything you need in one sleek, stylish device
  • Simple to set up and connect
  • Works with any app
  • Dedicated video display when you’re in calls, additional PC/Mac display when you’re not
  • 21-inch enterprise-grade display
  • Exceptional camera optics
  • Integrated ambient lighting
  • Powerful stereo speakers and microphone array
  • Easy to access controls put volume and mute right at your fingertips
  • The stand has mobile phone charging built right in, which is ideal if you are running back and forth in between meetings
  • The large LED status bar gives you quick confirmation of your call status and whether you’re on mute.
  • Extra USB ports built into the back allow you to connect other peripherals and free up the limited ports on your laptop or dock
  • And like with all Studio P products, the integrated privacy shutter provides extra privacy and security
  • List Price $815

If you would like to learn more about the new Poly Studio P Series solutions and when they will be available fill out the form to be notified or contact us directly.

    Remember Huddle Rooms

    Remember when Huddle Rooms were all the rage?

    Remember when huddle rooms were all the rage? All the top research and analyst firms had a ton of statistics like there were 32+ million huddle rooms globally with less than two percent being video enabled and that huddle-room meetings would grow exponentially to represent almost 70% of all video conferencing room meetings by 2022. Those statistics had manufacturers and businesses working overtime to ensure huddle rooms had the appropriate tech to support this boom.

    No one expected what happened in 2020. Video conferencing did increase exponentially however, not in huddle rooms. Instead, people joined video calls right from the comfort (or discomfort) of their homes.

    Because of COVID-19 there has been a huge increase in desktop video, remote learning and telehealth.

    So what happens to all those huddle rooms? I don’t believe huddle spaces are going the way of the dodo bird however, their design and use may be different. Many organizations are retrofitting and redesigning their meeting spaces to support the new normal where health and safety are of utmost concern. They are reducing the number of people by 50% or more depending on size of room to maintain social distancing guidelines.

    Some companies are in the process of implementing or are developing hybrid strategies that encompass a mix of in-office and remote work schedules. Some are considering making them private workspaces or a room where an individual can conduct training to the masses via video. And some businesses, haven’t done anything at all. The spaces are just sitting there as their teams continue to work from home.

    Regardless, video conferencing and collaboration is here to stay. Brands like Logitech, Konftel, Yealink, Jabra and Poly have developed a broad range of video solutions to support any size room across the multiple video platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

    We’re interested in hearing what your business is doing with huddle rooms. Drop us a comment. If you would like to learn more about video conferencing solutions for your meeting spaces, contact us!

    What Replaced Plantronics CS500 Series

    What Replaced the Plantronics CS510, CS520 and CS530?

    The Poly (formerly Plantronics) CS510, CS520, and CS530 products are end of life (EOL). The last order date was May 15, 2020 and the last ship date was July 15, 2020 or while supplies last. What replaced the Plantronics CS500 Series? In this blog we look at the Poly Savi 7210, 7220 and Voyager 5200 Office with 1-way base! The CS540 is still currently an active and available item.

    CS510 to the 7210

    CS510 Specs:

    • Enjoy wireless freedom with CS510-XD headset
    • Stay connected smoothly with a wireless range of 350 ft
    • Listen to your tape recordings or use them when listening to telephone calls on Skype with these mono sound headset
    • Listen to your favorite music with this over-the-head design headset
    • Your voice will be heard loud and clear with the boom microphone
    • Circumaural design provides optimum comfort and noise isolation
    • 8 hours of talk time

    Savi 7210 Specs:

    • Noise-canceling microphone
    • Flexible microphone boom
    • Up to 12 hours of talk time
    • Built-in audio protection
    • Universal base
    • Dedicated mute button
    • Universal fit headband
    • Freedom to move: Give workers more flexibility and confidence with up to 120 m/400 ft of range from base
    • Desk phone compatibility: Compatible with over 800 analog and IP desk phones
    • DECT™ adaptive power: Optimize range, save power, and maximize office space with a DECT™ adaptive power system that automatically adjusts wireless signal strength based on distance from base
    • Simple 4-headset conferencing: Make collaboration easier, with conferencing of up to 4 headsets on a single base
    What Replaced Plantronics CS500 Series
    Part NumberModel DescriptionReplaced ByReplacement
    Part Number
    Replacement Model Description
    84691-01CS510,OTH,MON,DECT 6.0,NA213010-01Savi 7210 Office, S7210 D, OTH, MONO, DECT 6.0, NA
    84691-02 CS510A,OTH,MON,DECT,EU213010-02Savi 7210 Office, S7210 D, OTH, MONO, DECT, EU
    84691-03CS510A,OTH,MON,DECT,AUZ/NZ213010-03Savi 7210 Office, S7210 D, OTH, MONO, DECT, AUS/NZ
    84691-11CS510,W/HL10,OTH,MON,DECT 6.0,NAN/ANo replacement
    88697-01CS510,AVAYA GMBH 4.999.137.605N/ANo replacement
    84692-01CS520,OTH,BIN,DECT 6.0,NA213020-01Savi 7220 Office, S7220 D, OTH, BIN, DECT 6.0, NA
    84692-02CS520A,OTH,BIN,DECT,EU213020-02Savi 7220 Office, S7220 D, OTH, BIN, DECT, EU
    84692-03CS520A,OTH,BIN,DECT,AUS/NZ213020-03Savi 7220 Office, S7220 D, OTH, BIN, DECT, AUS/NZ
    88698-01CS520,AVAYA GMBH 4.999 137.606N/ANo replacement
    201941-01Plantr. Headset CS520213020-02Savi 7220 Office, S7220 D, OTH, BIN, DECT, EU [these are standard non-OEM specific parts]
    205729-01PLANTRONICS DECT
    HEADSET,CS520,W/BASE
    213020-02Savi 7220 Office, S7220 D, OTH, BIN, DECT, EU [these are standard non-OEM specific parts]
    84692-11CS520,W/HL10,OTH,BIN,DECT 6.0,NAN/ANo Replacement
    86305-01CS530,OTE,DECT 6.0,NA212722-01VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,NA
    86305-02CS530A,OTE,DECT,EU212722-05VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,EMEA
    86305-03CS530A,OTE,DECT,AUS/NZ212722-08VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,ROW
    86305-11CS530,OTE,DECT 6.0,NA212722-01VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,NA
    86305-11CS530,W/HL10,OTE,DECT 6.0,NAN/ANo Replacement
    89254-01PLANTRONICS DECT
    HEADSET,CS530,W/BASE
    212722-05VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,EMEA

    Want to see the full Plantronics comparison and what replaced Plantronics CS500 Series? Check out our latest video below where we break down each replacement. If you have any questions about these products, please feel free to reach out to our sales reps at; 1-800-749-3160, contact us or email us at sales@calloneonline.com

    L

    Lessons Learned in 2020 from WFH and Zooming

    When we were all first sent to work from home, it was going to be a temporary thing. Many went home with minimal tools with the understanding they would be back in the office in a couple weeks. Weeks turned into months. Almost a year later and I am still working from home for the foreseeable future. Some organizations have elected to make remote work a permanent thing, so what lessons were learned in 2020 WFH and Zooming?

    So what did I learn?

    The ability to communicate and collaborate effectively is paramount. 2020 is the year when Zoom became a verb. Everyone was “Zooming”. (Even though other video platforms were also being used.) From company and team meetings, to virtual game nights, happy hours, and holiday celebrations, you Zoomed them. Regardless of video platform, these two things became very important:

    • Audio and Video Quality

    Although video is extremely important, I am going to give audio quality a higher level of importance. How many video meetings did you attend where this happened?

    • “We can see you but can’t hear you”
    • “Are you muted?”
    • “Can you hear us?”
    • “Whoever is making that noise, can you please mute?”

    Learning how to select the appropriate audio device via the various platforms is a first step. Knowing how to turn your video on and off is also key. And please learn how to mute and unmute. We all had moments where we saw and/or heard more than we should.

    If you are like me, you utilized multiple video meeting platforms beyond Zoom to include Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex, Google Meet, and more.

    I am very fortunate that my role requires me to test multiple audio and video devices from leading brands like Jabra, Logitech, Poly, Cisco and EPOS, along with lesser-known brands like Konftel, JPL, Yealink and VDO360.

    While open offices can be noisy environments, working from home present different sources of noise like other adults, children, pets, televisions, doorbells, lawn mowers, and other domestic noise! Some folks also deal with other sources of noise like trains, planes, traffic, construction and more!

    Fortunately, there is no shortage of options when it comes to audio and video devices for WFH.

    Audio Solutions for WFH

    The audio quality from the built-in speakers and mics in a laptop are typically subpar. A professional grade corded USB headset will provide a much better audio experience for you and your audience. Additionally, many headsets offer the ability to answer and end calls, adjust volume up or down, and to enable the all-important mute function via an inline control or through the headset itself. Some headsets even offer a cool feature that places you on mute by simply flipping the boom arm up. If you need the flexibility to roam around your home office, it is best to get a Bluetooth or DECT wireless headset. Imagine having the ability to remain in a call while helping your kids start their online school, going to the kitchen for more coffee, or to go get your food delivery from the front door? Wireless headsets allow you to do this.

    Another great feature that some headsets offer is Active Noise Canceling (ANC) speakers that help block out distracting noise and allow you to focus on your call or work.

    Personally, I use a USB speakerphone. Speakerphones are a great option especially if you are in a “listen-only” webinar or conference call. Some offer full-duplex audio which allows for multiple users to communicate simultaneously.  Bluetooth and NFC are available in some speakerphone models to support pairing to your mobile device. Personally, I use two speakerphones. I use one connected to my PC for voice and video calls. The other is paired to my mobile device for streaming music.

    Have a hard time deciding? Look at these videos!

    Headset, Webcam, and Speakerphone Comparison Videos

    Headset Mic Test Videos

    Speakerphone Review and Audio Quality Test Videos

    Video Solutions for WFH

    The built-in camera in your laptop typically provides horrible video quality. During 2020 I had the privilege of testing several webcams and cameras. I learned that 1080p means something different to the various manufacturers. Many claimed 1080p but the video quality I experienced was not quite what I expected. I guess Logitech spoiled me and the rest of us. In my opinion, they continue to be the standard when it comes to video quality. That’s not to say other brands didn’t hold their own. In addition to video resolution quality, other factors to consider when selecting a webcam are:

    Field of View (FOV)

    Today webcams and cameras offer a FOV of 54 to 360 degrees! Essentially the lower the degrees, the less you see, and the higher, the more you see. Some folks prefer not to expose too much of their environment and surroundings to the outside world. While some would like as much of the room or space in view. Your individual use case will always determine what is best for you. Some cameras have software available that allows you to adjust FOV and other settings to improve overall video quality and experience.

    Webcam System Requirements

    Not every webcam works with every computer or operating system. Make a note of your computer and operating system, then check the requirements for the webcam. ​

    Compatible and Certified

    Beyond system and operating system requirements select webcams are compatible or certified for major platforms like Microsoft Teams, Cisco® Jabber®, Spark™, WebEx®, Zoom, Google Meet, Bluejeans, and more! ​

    Built-in Microphone

    Some webcams provide built-in microphones that are pretty good and some that are not. Check out these webcam videos that include mic tests! However, having a built-in microphone is beneficial in some use cases especially those with limited USB ports. A USB Headset or Speakerphone typically provide improved audio quality.

    Privacy Shutter

    Webcam privacy shutters/cover webcam lens to prevent others from “seeing” what the camera sees. ​ Some webcams have built-in shutters. ​ Some webcams provide lens cover you can affix to webcam. ​ Some webcams do not provide privacy shutter or cover. If privacy is important, please check to see if the webcam of interest includes a cover or not.

    Cable Length

    It is critical that you understand where end-user wishes to mount camera vs where camera will be connected. ​Cable lengths vary from webcam to webcam. 3ft – 6ft appear to be average cable lengths however some have shorter cables​.

    While you can use a USB extension cable do not assume it will work. In order to maintain support for USB 2.0 or 3.0 requirements, there may be cable length restrictions, or you may need special powered USB cable (and even this may not work).

    Other features:

    • Pan, Tilt, Zoom (PTZ) – Manual, Digital, Software based
    • Device Management Software
    • Windows Hello support
    • Built-in AI
    • Auto-framing, Intelligent Zoom
    • Tripod-ready and other mounting options
    • Rightlight2 Technology for clarity in various lighting environments
    • Autofocus

    The point is, while a low-cost headset or webcam may sound appealing, it may not be the best solution for your use case today and in the future? Reminder, what started out as a short-term scenario has become long-term and permanent for many. Do you have the best tools to be as productive as possible while Zooming? To learn more about these solutions, contact us M-F, 8am-5pm ET! 📞 1-800-749-3160 or 📨 sales@calloneonline.com

    Logitech Zone

    Logitech Zone | Wireless & Wired Headsets | A Noise Canceling Mic Comparison

    Logitech made some updates to their Zone Wireless and Wired headsets. In our latest post, we tell you about them and include mic and wireless range tests! Some key improvements made include: Zone Wired/Wireless are now Microsoft Teams Certified and include dedicated Microsoft Teams button (was Skype for Business certified before). Zone Wireless also has USB-A to USB-C dongle adapter in the box. The Zone Wireless Charging port is now upgraded from micro-USB to USB-C connectivity. Logitech has also now made it easier to change earpads for the Zone Wireless.

    Logitech Zone Wired

    Features

    • Open Office-certified : Noise-canceling dual mic technology that accurately suppresses distracting sounds as close as 60 cm away
    • Premium audio drivers: Generously-sized 40mm drivers deliver full-bodied bass, crisp higher frequencies and incredibly low distortion
    • Plug-and-play reliability: In-line controls keep call and music functions handy as USB-C and USB-A adapter (included adapter is USB-A male to USB-C female) ensuring plug-and-play compatibility.

    Logitech Zone Wireless

    Features

    • Wireless Bluetooth headset designed to control your acoustic environment and get stuff done in open workspaces
    • Open workspaces are great for collaboration, but not so great when the conversations around you make it hard to concentrate. With active noise cancellation that substantially reduces unwanted ambient sound, a Zone Wireless headset can help you focus on the task at hand and get more stuff done. Think of it as a personal portal to acoustic serenity amidst a sea of otherwise distracting noise. Same workspace, but with a sound experience that you control.
    • Treat yourself to immersive sound when listening to music. Logitech audio engineers have been fine-tuning headset audio for decades, and the results are amazingly clear as you experience your playlist with Zone Wireless. When it’s time for a phone chat or conference call, the noise-canceling mic ensures that your voice is heard on the other end of a call—not the noise around you. Of course, the sound quality of your meetings is equally amazing.

    Performance

    When Comparing these two headsets, there is a clear audio difference between the Zone Wired and Zone Wireless. The Logitech Zone Wired (currently) has an MSRP of $129, and surprising, has a much better sound than the $229 Zone Wireless. Want to see how they compare? Check out the video: