Tag Archive for: Work from home

JPL Vision Mini

JPL Vision Mini Overview

The JPL Vision Mini is a small 1080p USB webcam with full HD glass lens. The webcam has a tri-fold hinged bracket with a gripper foot so it can be placed securely above your computer or laptop to allow long distance face to face meetings from your conference room or home office.

The JPL Vision Mini is compatible with all major video collaboration platforms and does not require additional software or downloads. It’s truly plug-n-play. This low-cost webcam is designed for personal use and is packed with great features including two built-in full duplexed microphones that provide awesome mic audio quality! (check out video below to hear for yourself)

JPL Vision Mini Features

  • 1080p HD 30fps CMOS Camera
  • Plug & Play solution – No software downloads needed
  • Full HD 1080p glass lens – No optical distortion
  • Two microphones – Built in dual stereo
  • 67° Field of view
  • Privacy lens cover included
  • USB-A connectivity
  • Desk mount, monitor mount or tripod option
  • AEC – Automatic Echo Cancellation
  • ANS – Automatic Noise Suppression
  • JPL Vision Mini is compatible with all major softphones. No additional software or downloads needed.

Video collaboration is here to stay for organizations small to large to stay connected with their team members in this new hybrid work model. If your business, or you personally are looking for an affordable, reliable, and easy to set up and use webcam, consider the JPL Vision Mini. Check out video below to see the webcam in action! Contact us for more info to learn more about the complete line of audio and video solutions available from JPL!

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Cisco Webex 4K Desk Camera

Cisco Webex Desk Camera

The Cisco Webex Desk Camera is a premium USB web camera that provides high-quality video and audio for video conferencing, video streaming, and video recording.

Don’t let poor quality video get in the way of a great meeting, with superior 4K video, high-quality microphone audio, intelligent AI-based features, and IT device management no matter where you are, this webcam is the cream of the crop.

In this blog, we’ll list the specs and features of the Cisco Webex, and later we’ll link a video showcasing the camera and microphone quality!

Cisco Webex 4K Features

  • 4K Ultra HD Video
  • Provides superior video with outstanding clarity, rich colors, great smoothness, superb resolution and frame rate
  • iHDR Enabled Light Performance
  • Improves video quality in various light conditions Helps users always look the best on video calls
  • Auto Focus
  • Brings peace of mind by fast, clear and perfectly sharp focus
  • Adjustable FOV
  • Offers a convenient way to choose the ideal angle of view
  • Built-in Privacy Shutter
  • Controls the video streaming on and off to ensure the complete privacy as needed
  • Offers high quality microphone audio with background noise reduction
  • Face Detection and Recognition
  • Certifies with Windows Hello and allows secure facial recognition login through the IR sensor
  • Multiple Connection and Mounting Options
  • Includes both USB C-to-A and USB C-to-C cables for flexible PC connection plus multiple placement options with the camera clip and the tripod screw thread

Final Thoughts on the Cisco Webex 4K Desk Camera

This is no ordinary webcam. Whether you are working from home or the office, the Webex Desk Camera is perfect for hybrid working styles. Collaboration administrators can easily update and troubleshoot every Webex Desk Camera from the Webex Control Hub making deployment and management easy.

Being able to download the Cisco Webex Desk Camera App and personalize your personal webcam is a huge bonus. From changing the resolution (from low res to 4K), field of view (65, 70, 75 or 81 degrees – show more or less of your space), frame rate, to the color and saturation of your image, this webcam truly does it all. Plus, it’s compatible with all popular meeting or video applications (including Microsoft Teams, Skype for Business, Zoom, Google Meet and Google Hangouts, BlueJeans, Slack, FaceTime, etc.) And it’s Windows Hello compatible!

Personally, I think this is a great solution regardless of platform if you are looking for a premium webcam. If you want to see it in action along with available settings in the Cisco Webex Desk Camera App, watch video below! If you would like to set up a pilot or proof of concept for mass deployment, contact us!

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Bluetooth Headsets Hybrid Work

My Top Picks for UC Bluetooth Headsets for Hybrid Work or Work from Anywhere

In our blog, Questions to ask when selecting audio and video devices for Hybrid Work we learned that organizations should understand if their team members setup is the same in their home as in their office.

If your team members use a computer (softphone) and mobile devices in both locations, here is a list of my top picks for UC Bluetooth Headsets for Hybrid Work, Work from Home, or Work from Anywhere. All models listed are compatible and/or certified with all major business communications and collaboration platforms to include Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco and more. All these headsets will pair to your mobile device via Bluetooth and your computer via included USB dongle. Check out this video below on Why you need a USB dongle:

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UC Bluetooth Headsets with ANC Speakers

Based off my personal tests and our YouTube Channel viewer comments and feedback, here are my top picks based off overall audio quality, compatibility, ease of use, comfort, & portability. In no specific order:

You can find a complete list of ANC Headset Solutions from Poly, Cisco, EPOS, Jabra, Logitech, and Bose here.

Discreet UC Bluetooth Headsets

If you are looking for a discreet UC Bluetooth headset, here are some you may want to consider.

Poly Voyager Focus 5200 Bluetooth Headsets Hybrid Work

Budget-Friendly UC Bluetooth Headsets

If you are looking for a no-frills, get the job done, UC Bluetooth headsets starting at $159.95 USD, look at these options available in single or dual ear headband wearing styles from Poly and Jabra. Both series support corded USB mode if you forget to charge headset or are experiencing Bluetooth density problems. To help keep you productive and uninterrupted, both offer online indicator/busy lights to show you are in a call. Carry cases are included with all models to make it easy to transport between locations.

See the complete list of UC Bluetooth headsets designed for computer and mobile phone here!

If you would like to learn more about Hybrid Work audio and video devices for your team members, contact us directly Monday through Friday, 8 am – 5 pm ET at 1-800-749-3160 or fill out this form! Don’t forget to ask about our Agent in a Box Service that can help simplify deployments by shipping all the components your employees in need in a single box right to their doorstep anywhere in the US, business, or residential addresses!

Questions to ask when selecting audio and video devices for Hybrid Work

As businesses settle into the new normal, some are adopting hybrid and flexible work models where teams and departments split between working remotely and working in office. Models will vary depending on organization.

Due to the massive surge in demand for USB audio and video devices the first few months of the pandemic, established leading brands had a hard time keeping up. Many organizations and people purchased audio and video devices from lesser-known brands and vendors.

Companies are now beginning to establish audio and video device standards after a year of dealing with “whatever was in stock”. Supply Chain is ramping back up and the leaders in the personal business audio and video device space have product flowing once again.

Organizations are looking for high-quality devices that are durable, reliable, easy to set up and use, and are compatible across the major business communications and collaboration platforms. Some IT Teams are also looking into device management software to help them monitor and manage devices remotely.

When it comes to selecting audio and video devices for your team members, it is critical to understand the individual users’ role and their environments. Here are some questions you should be asking:

  • Where will they be working? In the office? At home? A combination?
  • What are the noise levels? Quiet, standard Office, Loud? Check out our What’s the Decibel Level Blog and Video.
  • What will they be connecting to? Desk phone (brand & model), Computer, Mobile device, a combination of those, other?
  • If computer (Windows or MacOS, USB-A or USB-C), what communications and collaboration platforms are being used? What is the primary voice platform? Check out this blog and video on What’s the difference between UC and MS Headsets!
  • Is their setup the same in their home as their office? If not, what are the differences?
  • Will they get a set of audio and video devices for each location or are they expected to transport to and from home and office?
  • If at home and their audio or video device breaks or quits working, what is the expectation? Are there plans to supply a secondary or backup device?
  • Do they have ample USB ports?
  • DECT and Bluetooth wireless headsets provide connectivity flexibility and the benefit of mobility. What’s the difference between DECT and Bluetooth and which should you select? Check out this blog and video!
  • Do your IT teams need the ability to monitor and manage devices? Device manufacturers like Poly, Logitech, Jabra and others offer device management software solutions
Jabra Direct Xpress Selecting Devices for Hybrid Work

Authorized partners like Call One, Inc. with over 34 years of experience and a nationally certified Women’s Business Enterprise and Woman Owned Small Business can help narrow down your audio and video device choices. We work hand in hand with all the leading brands to include Poly, Jabra, Logitech, Yealink, JPL, EPOS, and more. Together we can develop customized solutions for your teams wherever they work. You can also take advantage of our Agent in a Box service and have the required components packed in one box delivered to the office or to individual residential addresses nationwide.

Contact us to schedule a free consultation to help you select the right audio and video devices for your organization!

Jabra Evolve2 30 | Outstanding Noise Canceling Headset

In today’s work from anywhere landscape, the Jabra Evolve2 30 is engineered to keep you productive. The headset is lightweight, portable, reliable, and comfortable. With the Evolve2 30, your team can look forward to outstanding calls, superior audio, all-day comfort and noise isolation for instant concentration anywhere.

The Evolve2 30 series is available in USB-A or USB-C, with single or dual ear headband wearing styles and UC or Microsoft Teams variants. There’s an integrated Busylight that turns on automatically when you’re on a call, and you can turn it on manually to signal ‘do not disturb’ mode. But how well does the noise cancelling mic perform? Stick around until the end for a link to our review video.


Jabra Evolve2 30 Features

  • Lightweight USB Business Headset available in UC and MS Teams Variants
  • Plug-and-play connectivity to your computer or mobile device via USB-A or USB-C
  • 2 built-in Microphones filters 12% more background conversation noise for clear, collaborative calls.
  • Integrated Busylight
  • 28mm Speakers for outstanding audio.
  • Future-proof tech that gets better with age thanks to an advanced digital chipset.
  • Noise Isolating Design
  • Reinforced Steel Headband Slider
  • Cable length – 1.5 m / 4.9 ft

Danny’s Opinion on the Jabra Evolve2 30 Series

I was thoroughly impressed with the latest addition to the Jabra Evolve2 Series of headsets and would recommend to anyone looking for a great value on a high-quality USB headset. The Jabra Evolve2 30 is great for use to work from anywhere including contact centers, work from home and in the office. Based on the low cost, light weight, comfort, strong audio performance, and compatibility across all major communications platforms, it’s a winner. The noise canceling mic performance of the Evolve2 30 was so impressive I will be creating another video comparing it to the older Evolve 30 II and new Evolve2 40. For now check out the video below to hear for yourselves how well it performed.

If you would like to discuss deploying Jabra Evolve2 30 in your business, contact center or home office, contact us!

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Logitech C930e Business Webcam header

Logitech C930e Webcam

The Logitech C930e Webcam is one of the five current Logitech Business Webcams models that includes the C505e, C920e, C925e, C930e & BRIO. The C930e falls into the “Better” category in this line up just behind the BRIO. This webcam is certified and compatible with all major video collaboration platforms to include Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex, RingCentral and more.

The C930e features dual integrated omnidirectional mics that capture audio clearly from up to 3.3ft / 1 meter away so conversations sound natural and clear. For loud environments, the Logitech Zone Wired or Zone Wireless Headsets and C930e webcam make an awesome video collaboration solution! 

Manage multiple Logitech personal collaboration devices* with Logi Tune. Available in desktop and mobile app versions, Logi Tune provides an elegantly intuitive dashboard for easy setup, control, and customization. Test your headset mic and sound, customize EQ, and adjust sidetone to hear your own voice at just the right volume. For webcams, control framing, adjust focus and choose a color preset to look your best. Logi Tune also makes firmware updates one-touch simple.

* Check for supported headsets and webcams

Download Logi Tune

Logitech C930e Business Webcam Features

  • HD 1080p video quality at 30 frames-per-second – Brings life-like HD video to conference calls, enabling expressions, non-verbal cues, and movements to be seen clearly.
  • Logitech RightLight 2 technology and autofocus – Webcam intelligently adjusts to improve visual quality in low light at multiple distances.
  • Wide field-of-view for business webcam – Enjoy an extended view – 90 degrees FOV – perfect for presenting using a whiteboard or doing demos.
  • 4X digital zoom in Full HD – 4X zoom at 1080p provides the highest level of detail for your calls, visuals, and presentations.
  • Professional-grade Certifications – Certified for Skype for Business, Cisco® compatible and enhanced integration with Logitech Collaboration Program (LCP) members integrated experience with most business-grade video conferencing platforms.
  • Premium glass lens – Enjoy razor-sharp images even when showing documents up close, a whiteboard drawing or a product demo.
  • Convenient privacy shutter – Easy lens enclosure for added privacy and security. Plug-and-play USB connectivity Easily connects to a PC or Mac® with no additional software required
  • Multiple mounting options – Freedom to mount the camera wherever it works best – LCD screen, notebook, or tabletop – by using the attached clip or the tripod embedded thread.

3-year limited hardware warranty

At only $129.99 the Logitech C930e is accessible for anyone looking to upgrade their video meetings to business-class. If you are a business and/or IT decision maker with mass deployment needs, contact us directly for support.

Check out the video below that provides and overview of the C930e, management settings available via LogiTune and includes video quality and mic tests!

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Logitech C925e Webcam

Logitech C925e Webcam

The Logitech C925e Webcam is the “just right” choice when it comes to Logitech Business Webcams. It sits in between the basic and good models C505e/C920e and better and best models C930e/Brio. It’s compatible and certified with all popular applications like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Cisco Webex, Google Meet and more! Before we get started on the review, lets look at the specs.

Features:

Logitech C925e MSRP: $99.99

  • HD 1080p video at up to 30 frames per second: Full HD 1080p 30 fps makes a vivid impression every time with true-to-life video calls.
  • Easy-to-use: Simple to set up and use, USB plug-and-play connection makes video meetings easy.
  • UVC H.264 encoding technology: Frees up PC bandwidth by putting video processing within the camera.
  • Convenient privacy shutter: Easy lens closure for added privacy and security.
  • 78° field of view: See more without having to reposition the camera or crop and zoom.
  • Logitech RightLight 2 technology and autofocus: Webcam intelligently adjusts to improve visual quality in low light and backlit situations at multiple distances.
  • Omni-directional dual stereo microphones: Designed to capture sound for clear communication in larger spaces like offices and small conference rooms.
  • Multiple mounting options: Freedom to mount the camera wherever it works best — LCD screen, notebook, or tabletop — by using the attached clip or the tripod embedded thread.
  • Professional-grade certifications: Leading business certifications (Certified for Skype for Business, Optimized for Microsoft® Lync® 2013, Cisco Jabber® and WebEx® compatible2 ) and enhanced integration with Logitech Collaboration Program (LCP) members1 ensure an integrated experience with most business-grade video conferencing platforms

Honest Review

When you can’t meet in person, this is the ideal webcam for solo use or small group use. The full 1080p HD video at 30 frames per second delivers true-to-life clarity, and in our professional opinion, it almost looks 4k.

With low MSRP, simple plug and play, integrated microphone, and crisp video quality, Logitech knocked it out of the park with this webcam. You truly get what you pay for! Interested in seeing more? Fee free to reach out to us for more info on the C925e. If you would like to purchase the Logitech C925e, you can order it online here. We have a full video where test and overview the Logitech C925e Webcam. Check it out below:

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Rally Bar blog header

Logitech Rally Bar | The Ultimate Conferencing Solution

The Logitech Rally Bar (Graphite, White) is an all-in-one video bar designed for mid-sized meeting rooms. A fellow content creator and tech geek, Ragnar Heil agreed to join me in providing a quick overview and audio and video test.

This Rally Bar can be used via simple USB plug and play or in Appliance Mode. The built-in compute allows you to run supported video conferencing applications such as Zoom directly from the device. Ragnar shares his top 3 features and together we provide group framing and mic pick up range tests and Ragnar also shares Logitech TAP.

So, what are the specs?

Camera

  • Resolution: 4K, 1440p, 1080p, 900p, 720p, and SD at 30fps
  • Pan: Motorized ±25°
  • Tilt: Motorized ±15°
  • Zoom: 15X HD zoom (5X optical, 3X digital available with upcoming software update) Diagonal field of view (dFoV): 90°
  • Horizontal Field of View: 82.1°
  • Vertical Field of View: 52.2°
  • Total Room Coverage: 132.1° Horizontal x 82.2° Vertical

Speakers

  • Drivers: 2x 70 mm / 2.7 in
  • Output: 90dB SPL @1W, 99dB SPL @8.0W, both +/-2dB at ½ meter
  • Sensitivity: 90+/-3dB SPL at 1W, ½ meter
  • THD: 1kHz < 2%

Microphones

  • Frequency response: 90Hz – 16kHz
  • Sensitivity: >-36dBFS +/-1 dB @ 1Pa
  • Microphone data rate output: 48 kHz
  • Pickup Range: 15 ft / 4.5 m
  • Beamforming Elements: Six omnidirectional digital MEMS microphones forming five adaptive acoustic broadside beams
  • Audio processing: AEC (Acoustic Echo Cancellation), VAD (Voice Activity Detector)
  • Noise suppression: AI filter
  • Add-on Mics: Supports up to 3 additional Rally Mic Pods for larger conference rooms

The Logitech Rally Bar has multiple features, mounting and configuration options that were not covered in our video. Out of the box you get the Rally Bar, USB Cable, HDMI Cable and Power Supply that allows you to connect directly to a computer and display to start using as a simple all-in-one video bar for midsized meeting spaces. If you would like to schedule time with a Logitech Video Collaboration expert to discuss Zoom Rooms and Microsoft Teams Rooms options, please contact us!

To see the Logitech Rally Bar in action, check out the video below!

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Poly Studio P15 | Overview

The Poly Studio P15 is a personal video bar that includes 4K camera, integrated privacy shutter, speakers, multi-microphone array and two USB 2.0 Type-A ports and several nice features like Noise BlockAI and Acoustic Fence. We’ve been using the Poly Studio P15 for a week across multiple video platforms to include Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

We have been really impressed with the performance across the board. In this blog/video we cover the connections, USB-C to USB-C cable length, Mounting options, and Poly Lens Desktop App Controls and Settings. Stick around until the end for a link to our showcase video.

What are the Studio P15 Specs?

Features

MSRP: $599.99

  • Personal Video bar
  • Look and sound your best on video calls with one sleek device
  • Easy fits atop your display, or tripod mount for flexibility
  • Robust cloud management using Poly Lens
  • Robust cloud management using Poly Lens
  • Certified for Zoom and Microsoft Teams
  • Includes mounting clamp that attaches to a standard 1/4-20 tripod screw thread on the bottom of the device
  • 4K Resolution
  • NoiseBlockAI
  • Cable Length: 4 feet 3 inches
  • 1x USB 3.0 Type-C port (with USB 2.0 compatibility)
  • 2x USB 2.0 Type-A ports

In Conclusion:

In our professional opinion, the Poly Studio P15 is a great value at only $599 MSRP. You get exceptional video and audio quality. It’s compatible across all major business collaboration platforms to include Zoom and Microsoft Teams. And, features like AcousticFence, NoiseBlockAI, Auto-Framing, and two additional USB Ports make this a great option for any business professional. If you’d like to learn more or get a quote, contact us.

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JPL Element TT3 Avant

JPL Element TT3 Avant | Low Cost, Sustainable, Professional

The JPL Element TT3-AVANT Headset is a unique patented modular headset system designed to provide the user with the choice of wearing styles. The Element range of headsets has been specifically designed to extend the life of the headset. Because of the modular design, if a speaker, microphone or headband breaks out of warranty, you only need to replace half of the headset (one part), which means a longer life for the headset and the cost of ownership is reduced. Why change the whole headset when changing half is the solution! How do they sound? First, let’s go over the basics:

What is the JPL Element TT3 Avant?

JPL Element TT3 Avant Features

  • Dual speakers for better conversation concentration
  • Left / right ear side compatible
  • Wideband enabled
  • Surround Shield Noise-cancelling microphone
  • Ratchet stop boom arm with 220° rotation
  • Supplied with quick disconnect system(QD) – QD compatible with Plantronics (QD bottom Lead Sold Separately)
  • Headset storage clam shell case and clothing clip included
  • Designed and engineered in the UK
  • Compatible with all known office phones
  • Full range of bottom leads available
  • Optional monaural headband available Approvals: CE, FCC, EAC
  • 3 Years Warranty – 2 years repair or replacement warranty PLUS a 3rd year cover on all non-moving parts

Our Thoughts

For the price ($95 for Dual Ear and $85 for Single Ear + plus cost of cable), 3 year warranty, and part replacement, this headset should be your go to contact center solution. The audio quality is in a league of it’s own. It surprisingly blows all competition out of the water. Take a listen for yourself:

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If you have any question regarding the JPL Element TT3 Avant, please reach out to us. Thanks for tuning in!