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.
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!
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Huddly_V3.jpg10691900Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-02-16 08:48:442021-02-16 09:00:38Huddly IQ Auto Framing Feature | Tutorial
You can save money by replacing headset accessories instead of buying a new headset! (Yes, some folks replace the entire headset when the ear cushion starts falling apart)
If you have ever been in a major contact center, there are vending machines you can go to for replacement ear cushions, mic screens and other essential accessories to keep your headset in optimal working condition. In a corporate office, there were processes in place you followed to get those accessories. The challenge for anyone working from home is they don’t have that same convenience.
What Replacement Accessories are available for your headset?
Companies like Call One, Inc. have been helping people do their business better since 1987. Our team can help you identify what replacement accessories are available for your specific headset. With multiple brands and headset models that exist, there are literally thousands of different accessories available. It can be extremely overwhelming. The Call One, Inc. team is here to help with Poly (formerly Plantronics), Jabra, EPOS (formerly Sennheiser), JPL and Cisco headset accessories.
Available Corded and Wireless Headset Accessories: Foam and leatherette Ear cushions, ear tips, ear wings, mic screens, voice tubes, replacement and spare batteries, headbands, neckbands, ear hooks, AC power supplies, Bluetooth Dongles, QD to modular coil cords, QD to USB adapters, training-y’s, charging stands, EHS cables, handset lifters, lapel clips, headband cushions, carry cases, amplifiers, audio processers, and more!
When should I replace accessories?
There are obvious times when you should replace, i.e., your AC power supply had a wrestling match with your vacuum cleaner and lost. Anytime a specific piece you need to use your headset effectively gets broken or goes missing, it’s time to replace. Foam ear cushions and mic screens should be replaced as often as you’d like but at least every 3-6 months depending on wear and tear. When it comes to wireless headset batteries, that typically depends on how heavy a user you are. Wireless headset batteries typically last at least twelve months however, we have seen batteries being replaced after only three to six months. Some batteries are field replaceable (you can DIY) while some are not (typically smaller form factor Bluetooth headsets)
Brands like JPL have modular headsets models like their Element TT3 that allow you to replace key components like the headbands and speaker and mic boom. This modular approach provides an overall lower cost of ownership.
Is there a minimum quantity order requirement?
That depends on the accessory, however, Call One, Inc. has been able to “break packs” to provide customers with the quantities they need. Another consideration when replacing headset accessories is shipping cost and how often you need to replace certain items like ear cushions. It’s best to order at least enough to last the length of the headset warranty.
Can you ship headset accessories to my home office?
Yes! Call One, Inc. can ship anywhere in the US including business and residential addresses.
How do I get started?
The best way is to contact us directly M-F, 8 am – 5 pm ET.
It’s best to have the headset brand and model you need accessories for in hand. Don’t know what headset you have? No problem. Take a picture of your headset and send it to us. Be sure to include what accessory you are looking for.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Call-One-Headset-Accessories-Blog.jpg7711800Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-02-12 15:15:362021-02-12 15:15:39Replacing Headset Accessories Can Save You Money!
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.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Poly-Studio-P5-Blog-header.jpg10681900Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-02-11 16:45:342021-02-22 12:01:52Poly Studio P5 Overview | 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!
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Logitech-C920e-5.jpg9871800Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-02-05 15:30:312021-02-05 15:30:50Logitech C920e Webcam – How Does it Perform?
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
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
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 P5 KIT with Blackwire 3210
Professional webcam and single-ear corded headset
List Price $149
POLY STUDIO P5 KIT with Blackwire 3325
Professional webcam and stereo corded headset
List Price $179
POLY STUDIO P5 KIT with Voyager 4220 UC
Professional webcam and stereo wireless headset
List Price $269
POLY STUDIO P5 KIT with Poly Sync 20+
Professional webcam and smart speakerphone
List Price $239
Poly Studio 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
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
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.
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.
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/poly_studio_p_series_family-blog-header2.jpg6751900Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-02-02 09:00:592021-02-02 16:10:12ALL NEW Poly Studio P Series and Bundles – Personal Video Devices
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.
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!
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Remember-Huddle-Rooms-header-v3.jpg6911700Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-01-26 10:59:512021-01-27 04:17:39Remember when Huddle Rooms were all the rage?
The Poly (formerly Plantronics) Savi 410, 420, 430, 440 and 445 are End of Life (EOL). Their last order date was June 9, 2020 and last ship date was August 9, 2020 or while supplies lasted. In this blog and video, we show what replaced the Poly Savi 400 series and provide differences and similarities.
The Savi 410
Features MSRP: $199.95
With the wireless Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications technology, answer your calls remotely while multitasking around the workplace
Sit comfortably anywhere in your room as the W410 offers wireless range of up to 300 ft
Great for Audio/Visual Labs, Assisted Listening Systems and more that have a Mono jack for non-stereo use
Sharp looking over head design will give you a comfortable fit
Boom mic lets you chat with your friends & family on Skype and on multiplayer network games
The supra-aural aka on-ear headset features DECT wireless technology
Flexible connectivity Today’s enterprise and contact center professionals work on a range of devices—from PCs and Macs to mobile phones and desk phones. Savi 8200 Office Series headset bases have 3-way connectivity—computer, desk phone and mobile phone—for convenient conferencing on up to two devices at once. For those wanting computer connectivity only, the Savi 8200 UC Series is the ideal choice.
Better Wireless Conversation
People sound their best, even in noisy environments, wearing DECT™ stereo headsets with active noise canceling to block out noise around the speaker. For sensitive conversations, where extra privacy is needed, they can turn up the Close Conversation Limiting feature.
Stay Charged. Take it further.
Savi 8200 Office and UC Series headsets are ready when needed with up to 13 hours of talk time on a single charge and a hot swappable battery for unlimited talk time. Everyone can move, multitask and get more done. Convenient voice prompts notify them of mute status, wireless range limit and more.
There are a lot more changes and replacements to the Savi 400 family. Want to see all of what replaced Poly Savi 400? Check out our latest YouTube video below and subscribe to our Youtube channel. Plus, check out additional Poly solutions here.
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
Part Number
Model Description
Replaced By
Replacement Part Number
Replacement Model Description
84691-01
CS510,OTH,MON,DECT 6.0,NA
→
213010-01
Savi 7210 Office, S7210 D, OTH, MONO, DECT 6.0, NA
Savi 7220 Office, S7220 D, OTH, BIN, DECT, EU [these are standard non-OEM specific parts]
205729-01
PLANTRONICS DECT HEADSET,CS520,W/BASE
→
213020-02
Savi 7220 Office, S7220 D, OTH, BIN, DECT, EU [these are standard non-OEM specific parts]
84692-11
CS520,W/HL10,OTH,BIN,DECT 6.0,NA
→
N/A
No Replacement
86305-01
CS530,OTE,DECT 6.0,NA
→
212722-01
VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,NA
86305-02
CS530A,OTE,DECT,EU
→
212722-05
VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,EMEA
86305-03
CS530A,OTE,DECT,AUS/NZ
→
212722-08
VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,ROW
86305-11
CS530,OTE,DECT 6.0,NA
→
212722-01
VOYAGER 5200 OFFICE,1-WAY BASE,STD USB CHRG CABLE,NA
86305-11
CS530,W/HL10,OTE,DECT 6.0,NA
→
N/A
No Replacement
89254-01
PLANTRONICS DECT HEADSET,CS530,W/BASE
→
212722-05
VOYAGER 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
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/CS500.jpg6751200Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-01-20 15:27:542021-01-20 15:27:58What Replaced the Plantronics CS510, CS520 and CS530?
This is a frequently asked question on our channel so we decided to reach out to Jabra, Poly and EPOS for their response. While you can pair your headset directly to your PC or Mac, the primary reason to use a dongle is call control. Using the pre-paired dongle will support the headset user the ability to answer and end calls via headset controls vs platform GUI. Other reasons to use a USB dongle versus pairing headset to Bluetooth are improved audio quality, increased roaming range, and overall user experience.
Integration with computer softphone and software support with Jabra Direct Full integration between a Jabra device and a computer softphone usually works only when combined with a Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter. Connecting to a computer without a Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter may provide audio capability in the device but not call control for answering and ending calls.
Bluetooth range Jabra devices obtain the best possible range when they are used with a Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter and not the built-in Bluetooth in a computer. Bluetooth performance of a computer is usually limited to a range of 2-5 meters/ 6-50 feet in a typical office environment.
Factory pairing and installation The Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter and Jabra device come pre-paired in the box. The Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter supports plug-and-play functionality, without needing to install separate software drivers on the computer.
Identification as a soundcard When pairing with the Jabra Link Bluetooth adapter, the device is identified by the computer operating system as a soundcard and can be used for all audio purposes. If a device is paired with the built-in Bluetooth of a computer, the device is usually recognized by the computer as a headset and can only be used for communication purposes.
Poly
Why are BT600 USB bluetooth adapters needed vs. pairing the headset directly to the PC/MAC?
Poly Bluetooth UC devices are full-featured and designed for optimal user experience. To fully benefit from the advanced functionality and have the most reliable audio experience, it is required that the headset is paired via the BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter versus paired directly to the PC/MAC. Poly provides function and additional benefits through the BT600 USB adapter in the following ways:
PC/MAC Bluetooth systems can vary widely in design and capability. By providing a BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter, Poly can ensure a better experience because we control both ends of the wireless connection
The BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter functions as an audio processor, which assures the best audio experience through wideband audio support—providing the highest voice quality. If connected directly to the PC/MAC, wideband audio is not possible
Without the BT600 USB adapter, PC/MAC Bluetooth systems do not typically provide capability to use the call control from the headset. Calls must be managed from the PC/MAC GUI and the buttons on the headset do not function. This eliminates mobility and provides a poor user experience
The BT600 USB Bluetooth adapter supports Poly software which provides advanced features, customization, as well as firmware upgrade capability
PC/MACs typically do not support all the required Bluetooth profiles or may assign the wrong Bluetooth profile to an application. The result can be poor audio quality, loss of audio on microphone or earphone, and inconsistent operation
The BT600 USB Bluetooth adapters enumerates to the computer as an audio device and therefore cannot act as a USB storage device. That being said, BT600 adapters cannot be used to access data on the PC/MAC
EPOS | Sennheiser
It’s the same reason for us, along with being the key to Microsoft Certification. Both the headset and dongle together is what certifies the device for use with Teams, or Skype for users still using SFB. Using the dongle will give you improved audio performance and connectivity performance as opposed to pairing native to the machine which the BT chipset can vary and may not handle audio as well as other machines etc. This is why we recommend it for most users.
Summary
As you can see, through all three partners, they have similar options on using a USB Dongle versus pairing headset to Bluetooth. Having a USB dongle is critical for having a better sound, connection, and overall better experience. Want to learn more? Check out our latest video:
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Dongle-Blog-graphic-V4.jpg10691900Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-01-14 16:25:402021-01-14 16:25:43Why Do I Need a USB Dongle vs Pairing the Headset Directly to a Computer?
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.
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.
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
https://calloneinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Work-From-Home-blog-graphic-v2.jpg8051700Danny Hayasakahttps://calloneinc.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/logo.pngDanny Hayasaka2021-01-11 13:44:182021-01-11 13:47:55Lessons Learned in 2020 from WFH and Zooming
