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deployed, there is not a single “best” solution that is optimal for all environments. Cisco recommends
that customers test the headsets that work best in their environment before deploying a large number
of units in their network.
In some instances, the mechanics or electronics of various headsets can cause remote parties to hear
an echo of their own voice when they speak to Cisco IP Phone users.
Cisco Systems recommends the use of good quality external devices, like headsets that are screened
against unwanted radio frequency (RF) and audio frequency (AF) signals. Depending on the quality of
these devices and their proximity to other devices such as cell phones and two-way radios, some audio
noise may still occur. See the “Using External Devices with Your Cisco IP Phone” section on page5
for more information.
The primary reason that support of a headset would be inappropriate for the Cisco IP Phone is the
potential for an audible hum. This hum can either be heard by the remote party or by both the remote
party and you, the Cisco IP Phone user. Some potential humming or buzzing sounds can be caused by
a range of outside sources, for example, electric lights, being near electric motors, large PC monitors.
In some cases, a hum experienced by a user may be reduced or eliminated by using a local power cube
(CP-PWR-CUBE-2). See the “Using an External Power Supply” section on page 4 for more
information.
Subjective to the User
Beyond the physical, mechanical and technical performance, the audio portion of a headset must
sound good to you (the user) and to the party on the far end. Sound is subjective and Cisco cannot
guarantee the performance of any headsets or handsets, but some of the headsets and handsets on the
sites listed below have been reported to perform well with Cisco IP Phones.
Nevertheless, it is ultimately still the customer’s responsibility to test this equipment in their own
environment to determine suitable performance.
For information about headsets, see:
http://vxicorp.com/cisco
http://plantronics.com