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Frequently Asked Questions

See below for answers to our most commonly asked questions. Still don't see what you need? Email us at xpressit@hellodirect.com or call 1-800-435-5634 (1-800-HELLO34).

When using a wireless headset, can I answer calls while I'm away from my desk?

When using just the wireless headset, you would need to return to your phone to lift the handset to accept a call. However, the GN1000 RHL Remote Handset Lifter can add remote answering capability to your wireless headset.

When the GN1000 RHL is connected to the base of your Jabra PRO 9450 or GN9125 if a call comes in while you are away from the phone (as you are likely to be with a wireless headset), the GN1000 RHL sends a tone to the headset to let you know the phone is ringing. When you turn your headset on, the GN1000 RHL lifts your handset for you, allowing you to accept the call. When you turn your headset off, it lowers the handset for you, thus terminating the call.

Your phone is compatible with the GN1000 RHL device if:

  1. The handset is located on the left side of the phone, and is a desk phone (not wall mounted).
  2. You do not have to press a button on the phone in order to accept a call (you only pick up the receiver to take a call).

Please be aware that even with the use of the GN1000 RHL, you do still need to return to the phone to transfer calls or dial out.

What is the range of your cordless phones?

What the exact range of a cordless phone will be is not something that is easily stated. Range is highly dependent upon the environment in which the phone is used. Obviously you will get better range in a less electronically noisy environment than you would in an area where there is a lot of electrical equipment (pagers, computers, cell phones, TVs, microwaves, etc.) being used. Range may also be affected by the location of the phone's base station and antenna, or by physical barriers such as walls. Even weather can affect range.

It may be best to think of cordless phones in terms of their relative range. 900 MHz phones will provide better range than the older 46/49 MHz analog phones. 900 MHz spread spectrum phones offer even greater range. 2.4 GHz phones will provide better range and security than 900 MHz phones. And the newest 5.8 GHz phones offer the best clarity, and security.

What is an analog line?

Generally the line you get from the phone company is an analog line. It's the most common style used today for regular phone service. Digital phone lines are usually found in business offices. These can be better thought of as internal phone companies. Many businesses have several outside phone lines that come into their office, and are then processed through a key system (or PBX) with a central control unit. These systems then process the information digitally, and require separate business phones to use with their key system.

What does Secure Site mean, and how safe is it sending orders over the internet?

Our site utilizes Netscape's Secure Socket Layer (SSL) protocol. SSL is designed to provide security between two communicating applications (the client and the server) and to authenticate both the server and the client. As required by the protocol, SSL negotiates an encryption algorithm and key before the first byte of data is transmitted or received. All subsequent data is transmitted with this encryption, which ensures privacy.

So basically, the SSL provides a "Secure Channel" for transmitting information. The Secure Channel has three basic properties:

  • The channel is private. Encryption is used for all messages after the initial handshake is used to define the secret key. This keeps any eavesdroppers out.
  • Channels are authenticated. The endpoint server of the transmission is always authenticated (keeping imposters out of the loop).
  • Channels are reliable. Information includes a message-integrity check. (This prevents possible vandalism of the information.)

The SSL protocol is application-protocols independent and exists in the layer between Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) and Transmission Control Protocol (TCP). "Higher" application protocols (e.g., FTP, TELNET, etc.) can layer on top of SSL transparently, meaning your secure transmissions remain private even in the presence of other applications.

In addition to SSL protocol security, Hello Direct also utilizes a PGP program between our host server and our order department. PGPs are programs that allow two parties to communicate messages in a way which does not allow a third party to read them, and certify that the persons who send and receive the messages are who they claim to be.

What are the different types of cordless phones?

Listed below are the six basic categories and a description of each:

5.8 GHz/5.8 GHz digital spread spectrum

5.8 GHz is the latest frequency adopted by the FCC. This frequency offers improved reception, clarity, range, and security over 2.4 GHz. It also incorporates the channel-scanning of spread spectrum to give you the best reception available in a cordless phone.

2.4 GHz/900 MHz digital spread spectrum cordless

This technology separates your signal into two different frequencies making it virtually interference free. But first, please know that despite what you may read elsewhere, even the best cordless products can't deliver the same sound quality that the finest corded products can.

Spread spectrum cordless

For superior clarity and range in a cordless phone, opt for a 900 MHz spread spectrum phone. They "spread" signals over several frequencies rather than locking onto one. Plus they continually scan for the clearest channels available. If you have a very large office, or if you'd like to take advantage of unprecedented digital clarity, choose a spread spectrum phone.

900 MHz digital cordless

If you don't really need a top-of-the-line spread spectrum phone, but still want the benefits of 900 MHz, consider a digital 900 MHz cordless phone. Originally reserved for the military, the 900 MHz frequency has become available for civilian use.

This higher frequency coupled with digital technology results in a stronger, clearer signal than 46/49 MHz analog cordless phones offer, and a range that is 2 to 3 times farther in many cases.

900 MHz analog cordless

If you'd like to take advantage of the 900 MHz frequency, but you'd also like to save a little money, think about an analog 900 MHz cordless. It doesn't have the digital signal enhancements (analog sound waves are shorter and more easily distorted), but in a small office, it should give you very good cordless reception. Certainly better than a conventional 46/49 MHz analog cordless.

46/49 MHz cordless

46/49 MHz phones have been standard on the market for many years. These are good phones for home use or a small, quiet office.

Do your cordless phones work on my company's phone system? Will I be able to transfer calls?

The cordless phones that we carry are designed for use on analog phone lines only. They are not compatible with digital phone systems.

You may want to consider using a wireless headset with your digital phone. Our wireless headsets are compatible with most corded digital phones. These headsets may be connected inline with your phone's handset. You may choose to use either the wireless headset or your phone's handset. You can still use all of the features of your existing telephone.