What is PoE Phone and How Does It Work?

A PoE (Power over Ethernet) phone is a type of IP (Internet Protocol) phone that can both transmit data and receive electrical energy over an Ethernet cable. It offers the advantages of less cable clutter and easy installation compared to classical telephone systems. PoE phones receive network connectivity and electrical power over the same Ethernet cable. This eliminates the need for a separate power cord or electrical outlet. Ethernet cable is used by a PoE compatible switch or injector to transmit both data and power.

What are the advantages of PoE Phones?

1. Fewer Cables: Since there is no need for a separate power supply, cable clutter is reduced.
2. Flexible Placement: Since there is no need for a power outlet, PoE phones can be placed more flexibly.
3. Easy Installation: Since both data and energy are carried with a single cable, the installation process is faster and easier.
4. Cost Effective: Because fewer cables and accessories are used, there is typically a lower total cost of ownership.

What are the Disadvantages of PoE Phones?

1. Length Limitation: The distance an Ethernet cable can effectively carry can usually be up to 100 meters.
2. Power Limitation: PoE can often be insufficient for devices with high energy requirements.

What are the Usage Areas of PoE Phones?

• Offices
• Call Centers
• Hotels
• airports

PoE phones are often used in conjunction with VoIP technology and are quite common in modern workplaces. 

How to Set Up a Desktop IP Phone System?

Desktop IP phone system setup typically involves a few basic steps. Here is a summary of these steps:

Prerequisites for Desktop IP Phone System

1. Internet Connection : You will need a high-speed internet connection.
2. IP Phone: You can choose IP phones with PoE support or an IP phone without support.
3. IP PBX or VoIP Service: If you plan to set up your own IP PBX (Private Branch Exchange), you will need appropriate hardware and software, or a VoIP service provider.
4. Ethernet Cables: Ethernet cables to connect phones to the network.
5. PoE Switch or Injector (optional): If your phone supports PoE, a PoE switch or injector may also be required.

Desktop IP Phone Setup Steps

1. Planning: Plan the number of phones, extensions, and other features needed.
2. Network Configuration: Configure the modem, router and switch. If you plan to install an IP PBX, you should also include this device in the network.
3. VoIP Service or IP PBX Setup: Purchase and configure a VoIP service or install your own IP PBX.
4. Configuring IP Phones: Connect the phones to the network. If you are using a PoE supported model, you can power the phones with a PoE switch or injector. Configure the IP addresses, usernames and passwords of the phones.
5. Test: Make a few test calls to test the phones and system.
6. Additional Features: If necessary, configure additional features such as voicemail, call forwarding, IVR (Interactive Voice Response).

Things to Consider When Installing Desktop IP Phones

• Backup: You may want to consider using a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for power outages.
• Quality: Optimize QoS (Quality Policies) settings for high quality audio.
• Security: Protect your network and VoIP system from possible attacks.

The installation process may vary depending on the hardware and software used, the features you need, and your company's specific needs. However, the basic steps I have outlined above provide a general guide to follow when setting up a desktop IP phone systems.

What is a PBX System?

PBX System (Private Branch Exchange) is a private telephone switchboard system and is generally used in workplaces. PBX connects internal (inside) and external (outside) phone lines, so users in the workplace can make free phone calls among themselves and also gain access to outside lines.

Features of PBX Systems

• Call Forwarding : Directing incoming calls to designated phones.
• Multiple Line Support : Support for multiple external lines and internal lines.
• Voicemail: Forwarding incoming calls to the voicemail system.
• Conference Calls: Supports conference calls where multiple users can talk at the same time.
• IVR (Interactive Voice Response): Automatic voice response systems and menus.
• Music on Hold: Playing music or informative messages to waiting callers.

PBX System Types

• Analog PBX: These are old-style PBX systems that work with traditional telephone lines.
• IP PBX: These are modern PBX systems that work over Internet protocol. It usually offers more features and flexibility.
• Hosted PBX/Virtual PBX: These are PBX systems managed through a service provider without the need for a physical PBX device.

Advantages of PBX Systems

1. Cost Effectiveness: Internal calls are usually free and bulk deals can be made for external calls.
2. Scalability: New lines and features can be easily added as the company grows.
3. Flexibility: It offers many features such as call forwarding, voice mail, automatic secretary.

Disadvantages of PBX Systems

1. Installation Cost: There may be high initial costs, especially for large systems.
2. Maintenance: There may be maintenance requirements such as hardware failures and software updates.

PBX systems can be designed to meet the needs of businesses of many different sizes and complexities, so they are suitable for both small and large organizations.

What is IP Phone Switchboard and How Does It Work?

IP Telephone Exchange is commonly known as IP PBX (Internet Protocol Private Branch Exchange) and is a modern version of traditional telephone exchanges (PBX). IP PBX uses Internet Protocol (IP) to carry phone signals. This is an implementation of VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology.

1. Data Transport: IP PBX converts voice into digital data packets and transports these packets over the network using Internet Protocol (IP).
2. Multi-Media Support: Not only audio, but also video, text and even fax information can be carried.
3. Network Integration: Since it operates on the same data network, IP PBX and other network devices (computers, servers, etc.) can be easily integrated.
4. Voice Call Forwarding: IP PBX can forward incoming and outgoing calls, provides features such as voicemail, and manages internal calls.
5. User Interface: Easily configurable, usually via a web interface.

IP Phone Switchboard Advantages:

1. Cost Effectiveness: Generally, IP PBX is cost effective as internal calls are free and offer low cost long distance calls.
2. Flexibility and Scalability: New lines and features can be added easily. Additionally, it is independent of physical location; that is, it generally offers a structure that is also suitable for remote working.
3. Advanced Features: Voicemail offers advanced features such as call forwarding, automatic secretary, conference calls, and sometimes even video calling.
4. Single Network: Can use the same network for data and voice traffic, making management easier and reducing costs.

IP Phone Switchboard offers a flexible and feature-rich solution that can meet the needs of modern workplaces and remote workers. However, a proper internet connection and security measures are required for a high quality and secure service.

How Do PoE Supported IP Phones Work?

PoE supported IP phones can receive both data and electrical energy via Ethernet cable. This means that the phone does not need a separate power source or electrical outlet to operate. Both network connectivity and power are provided to IP phones, usually using a PoE switch.

The advantages of PoE are:

• Reduces cabling costs and complexity.
• Provides greater placement flexibility in locations that should not be near electrical outlets.
• It offers the opportunity to manage power from a central point.

Best Camera IP Phone Models

When choosing an IP phone among the best camera IP phone models suitable for you, you can choose Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled models or desktop or DECT IP phone models with a high-resolution touch screen, depending on your needs. We have added a few models below as IP phone suggestions that we think will suit your preferences.

Yealink VP59 PoE Supported Android IP Video Phone: Generally designed for high-end business and video conferencing needs, the Yealink VP59 PoE Supported Android IP Video Phone model with a high-quality camera has the Android operating system and a high-resolution touch screen. Most models have advanced camera features, Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth and more. The VP59 is often preferred for video conferencing needs thanks to its large screen and superior video capacity.

Yealink T58W Pro Android, PoE Supported IP Phone with Camera and without Adapter : Yealink T58W Pro PoE Supported IP Phone without Adapter is also an IP phone model with a camera, it is generally used in workplaces. This model usually supports features such as a high-resolution touch screen, HD audio and video quality, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. The T58W Pro generally has a good price/performance balance and is a viable option for a variety of business scenarios.

These two models generally work with SIP (Session Initiation Protocol), making them compatible with VoIP (Voice over IP) service providers and IP PBX systems. Thanks to their high-resolution cameras, these phones offer a high-quality video conferencing experience and facilitate teamwork and communication in the workplace.