So, if I need 3 extensions do I need 3 separate phone lines?
Using Axon from NCH (free software), you can add and manage any number of extensions for a single or multiple phonelines. Each extension can be used by either a computer softphone (with a headset or external USB phone), an SIP phone (connected directly to your internet router or switch using Ethernet) or a traditional analog phone using an ATA adapter connected to your Internet router or switch.
Will my Vonage phone line work or do I need to signup for Vonage Softphone?
In order to connect your current vonage line to NCH software, you will need to purchase an FXO adapter. This converts any analog line into a VoIP line. Even though Vonage is a digital VoIP service, the output from the ATA device they provide you is Analog. Essentially this means the call will be converted from VoIP to analog to VoIP again. Fear not, because I am using this exact method and it does not cause any noticeable delay or quality loss. The (Linksys) Sipura 3102 FXO adapter is around $80-$100 depending on where you purchase it. You can also use the Vonage soft-line and connect it directly to IVM's software, however Vonage soft-lines don't have unlimited plans, and you can only get them in combination with their regular service. So, the soft-line is essentially a rip-off and financially doesn't make sense unless you absolutely need to use the features of a soft-line.
Can I use Skype in combination with Vonage for extensions?
Skype can interface with IVM software (using Uplink) in such a way that incoming calls from Skype can be routed through to call your internal extensions. Additionally, you will be able to make outbound calls through your Skype line, and you can also forward calls to another Skype number. However, that is pretty much the extent of which Skype can interface with this software, you won't be able to simply add Skype extensions to be rung like your other extensions on incoming calls for example. Also, I warn you that the Skype interface is not completely 'bug-free' in my opinion, and still needs work. Judging from experience and the topics in the uplink forum, there seems to be common problems such as disconnections when there are multiple concurrent Skype calls, and an inability to detect key presses over a Skype line.
Will I need Axon or can I just use IVM independently?
You can use IVM independently, however the software basically operates as just an answering machine / basic IVR on it's own. If you want other features like multiple extensions, advanced call routing, dial-plans, call forwarding, dialing groups, etc. you will want to use Axon in combination with IVM. There is also additional 'plug-in' type software for extended phone features such as Music-on-hold and a conference centre.
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Other useful information:
- Each extension can dial another extension in your phone network as well as use external phone lines.
- You can set-up dialing plans and control exactly how each extension (or a group of extensions) can make phone calls. For example, you can specify that Extension 1 can make both internal or external phone calls and Extension 2 is limited to only external phone calls. You could also for example prevent certain extensions from making certain types of phone calls, such as international, premium, or mobile phones (depending on your country).
- Extension groups can be set-up to allow multiple extensions to be considered one extension when an event occurs. For example, if I setup a group with extension 1 and 2 in it, I can tell Axon to ring that group of extensions when an incoming call comes in.. otherwise only 1 extension could be rung. Additionally, there are more advanced dial groups which can have for example different delay times for ringing. For example, ring one extension for a specified number of seconds, and if no one answers automatically start ringing another extension.
- There is virtually no limit* to how many external lines you can have.. meaning if you wish to upgrade your system in the future and add additional VoIP lines (or FXO lines), this is quite possible and easy to do. You can use both lines together, and for example even set-up a system where if one line is busy, the call can automatically use the next line that is available.
Don't hesitate to ask if you have any further questions.
