About Headsets, Headset Types, Headset Selection

HEADSETS

About Headsets

If you use the phone frequently or for extended periods of time, headsets can make your life much easier. Headsets, like speakerphones or conference phones, allow you to use your hands while talking on the telephone.

One advantage headsets have over speakerphones and conference phones is the added dimensions of privacy and decreased office noise. Headsets, like handsets, allow only half of a conversation to be overheard. This maintains a level of semi-privacy, while reducing the amount of noise heard in and around the office.

Headsets can be challenging, however, for a person who needs to get up from his or her desk frequently. Replacing the headset plug into the headset jack or putting the headset back on and adjusting it, can be more cumbersome than picking up the handset, or going off-hook on the conference phone.

Most people, however, find headsets to be a valuable communications tool. When using a headset in addition to a handset and conference phone, the headset can become an indispensable part of a multi-functional approach to business communications.

Some business and SOHO (small office/home office) telephones like SoundPoint Pro are “headset-ready”, meaning they have a connector (2.5mm phone jack, or a non-standard connector for use only with the phone maker’s headset) and a separate button to go off- hook without lifting the receiver.

Many headsets require an adapter/amplifier to work with a business telephone. Most of these headsets require plugging the amplifier into the handset jack, then plugging the handset into a receptacle on the side of the amplifier. This arrangement can be a nuisance, especially since you must always take the handset off-hook to use the headset.

To compound these problems, some headsets require that you select DIP switch settings to get the sound right, and then adjust a separate volume control on the amplifier.

SoundPoint Pro has an integrated headset amplifier and complete compatibility with all telephone functionality. SoundPoint Pro comes standard with a headset hanger.

There are many different options and styles of headsets to choose from. Following is an overview of what to look for in a headset.

SoundPoint Pro Professional Conference Phone Appendix

A–2

Headset Types

There are three basic types of headsets:

Binaural headsets are held on by a “headband” and have earpieces that provide sound to—and cover—both ears. This helps to block out background noise better than the other types.

Monaural headsets are also held in place by a headband but cover just one ear. The single earpiece can sit in the ear—actually fitting into the ear canal with a microphone attached—or cover the ear using a foam or “leatherette” cushion.

In-the-earheadsetsfit in, or over the ear, or grasp the ear itself to stay in place. These headsets are popular with people who like to avoid the adverse effects of the other types of headsets on hairstyles, etc.

Headset Selection

If you are interested in purchasing a headset, you should decide which type is best for you, and also take into consideration:

Sound Quality

Some headset manufacturers use noise reduction technology to enhance sound quality. Like high-quality conferencing equipment, good sound quality in a headset can improve productivity and make daily business communications more enjoyable.

Comfort/Wearability

Headsets are traditionally worn by people who spend a great deal of time on the phone, so choosing one that’s comfortable—and stays that way—makes a big difference. Make sure that the headset you chose is comfortable to wear, and maintains its shape when it’s not on your head.