My USB headset isn’t working… “Have you updated the firmware?”

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By Danny Hayasaka

January 21, 2016

We get lots of calls from customers who claim their USB headset isn’t working. One of the first questions we ask is, “Have you updated the firmware?” Most issues are corrected once customers download the software and update the firmware.

Yes, you need to download the appropriate software when you purchase a corded or wireless USB headset from Plantronics, Jabra, VXi and Sennheiser. Jabra and Plantronics also offer an Enterprise solution that allows IT to manage remotely versus going from station to station making changes.

Here are links that will direct you to the current software downloads:

Most also have software for Mac.

Here are some of the feature/functions that USB headset software offers (go to each link for specific details on the various software and supported devices and softphones):

    • Change device settings
    • Visible mute and battery status
    • Readiness Status
    • Device-level call control with call answer/end, mute, and volume adjust
    • Compatibility for a broad range of softphones
    • *Remote Call Control (Answer/End Call, mute, redial etc) from the headset
    • Readiness Status
    • And More!

Most of the software offers a graphical user interface (GUI) that makes it easy to “see” what you are connected to and status.

The GUI also allows the end-user to quickly make device setting changes.

You can quickly and easily make device setting changes with a few clicks.

The main point is if you are experiencing issues with your Plantronics, Jabra, Sennheiser or VXi USB headset and haven’t downloaded the software and updated firmware… that may be the issue.

 

How I extend the range of my Bluetooth headset in a Microsoft Lync/SfB 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):

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