Update: Microsoft Office Communicator has been renamed Microsft Lync in 2013, then Microsoft Skype for Business in 2014.
Q: What is Microsoft Office Communicator 2007?
A: Office Communicator 2007 is Microsoft’s new unified communications client (softphones) for computer-based Voice-over-IP (VoIP) telephony. It helps users communicate easily with others through instant messaging (IM), voice, and video. Office Communicator offers integration with programs across the 2007 Microsoft Office system. Learn more at: http://www.microsoft.com/uc/products/oc2007.mspx
Q: What is Microsoft Unified Communications?
A: Microsoft Unified Communications is a software platform that unites existing communication systems and tools: desktop telephone systems,
legacy PBX and IP-PBX systems, voice mail and faxes. Learn more at
http://www.microsoft.com/uc/what.mspx
Q: How do headsets integrate with Microsoft Office Communicator 2007?
A: Plantronics and GN Netcom/Jabra has worked with Microsoft to integrate various headsets (wireless and corded) with Office Communicator so it’s simply plug-and-play. No drivers to install. Just plug the headset into the USB port and Office Communicator will recognize the device. Commands sent from the headset are recognized by Office Communicator and visa versa.
Q. How do I answer/hang-up the call when using a headset with Office Communicator 2007?
A. All OC headsets that are qualified to work with Office Communicator have integrated buttons for answering and hanging up a call and adjusting the volume. Simply press the dedicated “Hook switch” button to answer a call. To end a call, press the same button again.
Q: What current problems are Microsoft Office Communicator headsets addressing?
A: Until today the quality of a VoIP call has not been that great. Some of that is due to the network but a lot can be attributed to the endpoint
devices. All headsets that are certified to work with Office Communicator 2007 are wideband headsets.
Q. What does “wideband” mean and why is it important?
A. “Wideband” refers to the frequency range supported by the headset when transmitting and receiving sound. GN/Plantronics and Microsoft adhere to the definition of wideband as defined by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA). This is also the definition that GN/Plantronics and Microsoft use. Wideband headsets have superior audio quality for VoIP , which allows people to experience the true sound of Office Communicator 2007.
Q. What other sound quality issues should headset users be aware of?
A. Sudden loud sound spikes such as the high-pitched squeal of a fax machine can be harmful. All our Office Communicator headsets have PeakStop technology, which eliminates loud noises above 118 dB SPL.
Q: How do headsets improve the enterprise communications environment?
A: Plantronics and GN Netcom has taken a sophisticated audio device and made it easy to set-up, simple to use, comfortable to wear and durable. The end result is superb call clarity and energized users. A headset is a personal device that will allow people to be more productive in the office by
having their hands free to do the work they do.
To see the whole line of Wireless Headsets or Plantronics Headsets visit www.HeadsetPlus.com
