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VoIP
VoIP FAQs
What is VoIP/Internet
Voice?
VoIP allows you to make telephone calls using a computer
network, over a data network like the Internet. VoIP converts the
voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that travels
over the internet then converts it back at the other end so you
can speak to anyone with a regular phone number.
How Can I Place a VoIP Call?
Depending on the service, one way to place a VoIP call is by using
Lorenz Bells' LB61Z, connect to your existing high-speed Internet
connection and dial the number. The call goes through your local
telephone company to a VoIP provider. The phone call goes over the
Internet to the called party's local telephone company for the completion
of the call.
Download Skype
and SkypeMagic, connect your phone to
the USB adaptor and you are ready to call every Skype user for free.
What Kind of Equipment
Do I Need?
This can be through a cable modem, or high speed services
such as DSL or a local area network, or by using Lorenz Bell Phone.
Is there a difference between making a Local Call and
a Long Distance Call?
Some VoIP providers offer their services for free,
normally only for calls to other subscribers to the service. Your
VoIP provider may permit you to select an area code different from
the area in which you live. This means you may not incur long distance
charges if you call a number in your area code regardless of geography.
It also means that people who call you may incur long distance charges
depending on their area code and service.
Some VoIP providers charge for a long distance call to a number
outside your calling area, similar to existing, traditional wire
line telephone service. Other VoIP providers permit you to call
anywhere at a flat rate for a fixed number of minutes.
If I have VoIP service, who can I call?
Depending upon your service, you might be limited
only to other subscribers to the service, or you may be able to
call any phone number, anywhere in the world. The call can be made
to a local number, a mobile phone, to a long distance number, or
an international number. The person you are calling does not need
any special equipment, just a phone.
What Are Some Advantages
of Internet Voice?
Because VoIP is digital, it may offer features and
services that are not available with a traditional phone. If you
have a broadband internet connection, you need not maintain and
pay the additional cost for a line just to make telephone calls.
With many VoIP plans you can talk for as long as you want with any
person in the world (the requirement is that the other person has
an Internet connection). You can also talk with many people at the
same time without any additional cost.
Does my Computer have
to be turned on?
Not necessarily if you are making calls with a VoIP
phone, but your broadband Internet connection needs to be active.
Does it work during power outages?
No, unless you have backup power, like an UPS (Uninterruptible
Power Supply) that will keep your PC turned on for sometime.
Can I call 911 and other emergency services?
No.
Can I use my Computer While I talk on the Phone?
Yes.
Can I Take My Phone Adapter with me When I Travel?
Yes, as long as you have a wireless high speed Internet connection
available.
How Do I Know If I have a VoIP phone Call?
It will ring like any other call.
Does the FCC Regulate VoIP?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has worked
to create an environment promoting competition and innovation to
benefit consumers. Historically, the FCC has not regulated the Internet
or the services provided over it. On February 12, 2004 , the FCC
found that an entirely Internet-based VoIP service was an unregulated
information service. On the same day, the FCC began a broader proceeding
to examine what its' role should be in this new environment of increased
consumer choice and what it can best do to meet its role of safeguarding
the public interest.
Aspects of these considerations may change with new developments
in internet technology. You should always check with the VoIP
service provider you choose to confirm any advantages and limitations
to their service.
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