DECT’s Demise
30 Jul 2010, 8:42 amDECT is in it’s death throws & it’s about time.
Having dealt with cordless “DECT” solutions for a number of years it never ceases to amaze us how these manufacturer companies market unrealistic statistics on their new handsets but only to disappoint once implemented.
First of all the true DECT handset setups are usually the same branding as your existing PABX.
Alcatel have a good DECT system which enables you to put calls on hold, transfer as you would with the relevant desk handset but this comes at a significant cost when antenna base stations, system DECT cards, programming etc are accounted for & with typical pricing starting from $1,500 onwards. And as technology hasn’t changed for so long, it’s fallen way behind business requirements.
The DECT (cordless) handsets you buy from retail stores are just glorified analogue cordless handsets that have limited functionality with models being changed frequently which is frustrating.
Coverage for these phones vary from 50-200m with average clarity.
Recently we were requested by the distributor to test the new Engenius Freestyl long range cordless handsets.
We were extremely sceptical given our previous experience with cordless models and their hype.
The test parameters were the following:
- Handset connected to our existing Avaya PABX via analogue extension card
- Handset located on Level 8 333 George St Sydney
- At nominated positions do both an internal extension call and outside call
- Weather was overcast July 2010
- No additional antenna’s connected
If you refer to maps below you can see the coverage we obtained in both Sydney CBD was extraordinary especially will all the obstructions such as buildings.
Pretty amazing isn’t it?
Imagine this kind of range for your business? Think coverage through out every floor of your business. Or for our distributor and warehouse customers – think of the communication value you will gain no matter how large your warehouse is or how far it is from the office!!!
The 2nd test at Norwest Crowne Plaza with the General Manager was also successful with full coverage over 4 floors plus the Roof Plantroom!
The Crowne Plaza were ecstatic as they have never been able to use there current cordless phones past the Ground Floor.
For hospitality customers, this is new obtainable holy grain.
Engenius have made claims they can do up to 5km’s so stay tuned as we are doing more site tests including farms and large industrial sites!
If you’re still thinking about the possibilities, let me seal the thought – it’s incredibly affordable to boot!
Would you like to test it for yourself? Call us on 1300 766 796 for an obligation free test in your building.
Or click here to register your interest and one of our team will call you back.
Cheers,
AB
