USB DECT Dongles for Hybrid Work

Organizations choose wireless headsets for many reasons, including increasing productivity by allowing employees to be hands-free and mobile. Bluetooth and DECT are the most prevalent wireless technologies and operating frequencies in professional-grade headsets. Industries and organizations that share sensitive or private information over voice calls typically opt for DECT wireless headsets due to their increased security. Click here to see a complete list of professional-grade Bluetooth and DECT wireless headsets! 

Depending on the brand and model, DECT Wireless Headsets usually include a base station that provides connectivity options to desk phones, computers, mobile devices, or combinations. These solutions typically use cables to connect to a desk phone, computer, and AC power. These were great pre-pandemic solutions as most worked in an office with most of their equipment fixed at a workstation.  

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The Challenge 

The pandemic has shifted where and how people work. Hybrid and remote work models have increased dramatically. The benefits of DECT wireless headsets are substantial; however, their portability is not. It’s not practical to disconnect the cables, AC power, base, and headset to pack up and transport between work locations.  

The Solutions 

Fortunately, there are a few solutions.  

Good 

Use DECT Wireless headset as a corded USB audio device. Some DECT wireless headset models support using it as a corded USB headset. This is a good option that allows employees to use their existing equipment in the office and remote workspace with their laptops. While this is an excellent money-saving option, you lose the critical benefit of being wireless. If you have grown accustomed to a wireless headset and then need to go corded, there is a bit of a learning curve. When I’m testing corded headsets, I sometimes forget and try to get up and walk away and am quickly reminded I’m tethered to my laptop. The Jabra Engage 65 and 75 support this option. You can use the included Jabra USB-A Cable – 14201-26 or purchase a spare cable to keep at home.  

Better 

USB DECT Dongles. This is not a new option. Poly (formerly Plantronics) introduced the D100 years ago with their Savi 400 Series. The latest, smaller D200 DECT Wireless Savi Adapter is available in USB-A, USB-C, and UC and Microsoft variants. The D200 DECT dongle will work with Poly Savi 8200 UC Series headsets. EPOS recently introduced the EPOS Impact SDW D1 USB DECT Dongle that works with the EPOS Impact SDW 5000 Series. It’s currently only available in USB-A. EPOS introduced three new SDW 5000 Series models designed for hybrid and remote work and include the SDW 5000 headset of choice, the dongle, charging cable, and carry case.  

EPOS Impact SDW 5000 Headset + DECT Dongle Portable Models 

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D200 USB DECT Dongles 

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Best 

Complete setups at each location is the best solution; however, budgets may not support this option. A setup at each location is optimal and relieves the worry about transporting equipment to and fro and potentially forgetting an item or breaking something in transit. I am fortunate enough to have solid setups in my dedicated home and corporate office. I have monitors, docking stations, webcams, audio devices, and other peripherals, making it highly convenient for hybrid work. The only thing I haul is my laptop.  

Audio is critical 

Whichever solution you choose, audio is critical in business communication. Ensure your team members have high-quality, purpose-built audio solutions designed for UC and Collaboration platforms. Do not fall into the trap of ordering inexpensive audio devices to help check a box on your to-do list. Engage a subject matter expert who can walk you through the various solutions that align with your organization’s needs and budget.  

Call One, Inc. is an authorized reseller of professional headsets by Jabra, Poly, EPOS, JPL, Logitech, Yealink, Cisco, Shokz, and more. How can we help?