Obtaining the flexibility of voice over IP and regular landline calls from one handset need not involve splashing out on new phones after all.
For networking company, D-Link are about to launch an adapter that converts existing DECT phones for use with Skype. Working with DECT corded and cordless phones, the DPH-50U handles both Skype and landline calls, and even switches in-call between the two via a call waiting function.
An LED display on the adapter unit lets the user know what type of call is being received. Also possible is the setting up conference calls involving both Skype and landlines. D-Link state that existing handset features such as speed dial, redial, mute and caller ID2 will work for both Skype and landline calls.
But that’s not the end of the tricks. Remote calling and toll bypassing features also throw up some interesting scenarios.
According to D-Link, “The first scenario is when you are in the same geographical area as the DPH-50U and want to make an international call. You can call from your cell phone to the computer that the DPH-50U is connected to and make a low cost SkypeOut3 international call.
“The other scenario is when you are travelling abroad and want to call someone who lives in your home area. You would simply make a Skype-to-Skype call to the computer where the DPH-50U is connected and use your regular telephone line to make a local call.”
The DPH-50U is to be bundled along with two RJ-11 ports and a USB port to connect your regular phone line, telephone and computer, respectively. Since the DPH-50U receives power from the computer through the USB cable, it does not require a power adapter. The gadget is scheduled to ship in Europe from next month for approximately £40, equivalent to buying one well-featured VoIP handset.
