A

Access to BT Select Services

This means the product is compatible with BT's select services. These are Caller Display, Call Minder, Call Diversion etc

Acoustic Clarity Technology

Polycom trademark describing the unique integration of full duplex software and hardware that must be implemented in order to maintain quality full duplex operation. These implementations include strict manufacturing guidelines that must be followed in order to support Polycom's level of full-duplex quality. (see Duplex)

Acoustic Shock

Acoustic Shock is a high intensity sound burst on the telephone headset. This could be accidental or deliberate. Likely causes are sounds from fax machines; customers tapping into a headset; malicious acts, etc.

ActiveGard ™

This feature dramatically reduces the potentially dangerous effects of an incoming acoustical burst and leaves the signal free from distortion.

Activity Reports

This feature enables the user to print off a report of all faxes sent from the machine. This can be used to check whether or not certain faxes were received or not, instead of standing by the machine & waiting for confirmation.

Adjustable Number of Rings

This allows the user to change the amount of rings before the answering machine will pick up the incoming telephone call.

ADSL Microfilter

When ADSL or Broadband is provided a signal is sent down the line so the computer can use the higher bandwidth provided. This signal to the ear sounds like a hissing or buzzing sound. The Microfilter is the device that takes away this sound when a telephone is plugged into it.

Alarm

Some telephones that have a clock on them also allow you to set an alarm to ring at a certain time, useful for reminders.

Alpha Dialling

A feature on certain products allows you to find previously called numbers by searching through the letters on the telephone keypad.

Alphanumeric

Numbers on most telephones have letters associated to them as well. Alphanumeric refers to the buttons on the phone that have both numbers & letters.

Amplifier

Amplifiers increase the headset volume, also sometimes allowing a headset to work on a telephone not normally able to take one. It is usually a small box with manual volume controls that sits on the operator's desk.

Analogue Line

The same as a normal BT telephone line that normal analogue phones & other devices such as faxes will work on.

Analogue Ports/Extensions

These are sockets that allow analogue products to be plugged in. An examples of analogue telephone is a fax machines, this would not function if was plugged into a digital extension.

Analogue Telephone Sockets

This is a socket that will only except analogue devices such as fax machines or other analogue phones. Sometimes digital sockets are provided that need specific types of telephones to work.

Announce Button

On most answering machines they have the ability to record a personal greeting for when the call is answered. This button allows you to listen to the greeting that is currently set in order to see if is suitable.

Answering Machine

This is a device that picks up the incoming call and allows the caller to leave a message that is then stored. The user can then listen to the message at a later date.

Answering Machine Interface

Allows an answering machine to be connected to your fax machine

Answer-only facility

This is when an answering machine is set to play a message to the incoming caller but does not allow them to leave a message after. This is useful when it is just to give advice & the user does not want to have to call people back.

Anti-tangle handset cord

Stops handset cord from becoming tangled.

Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL)

This is another name for a broadband line. It enables the user to plug a computer into the line & download information at a higher rate than on a normal telephone line. It means that when a user is on a website the pages will appear on the screen much faster, saving a lot of time.

Audible Message Alert

When a message is left a tone or beep is sounded so the user knows that one has been left. This is useful when the phone is not used very often and otherwise the message would go unnoticed.

AudioIQ ™

When background noise changes this automatically adjusts the voice levels to compensate. This makes it suitable for noisy areas such as in the car.

Auto fax/Tel switch

When an a voice call or a fax call is received it is useful to be able to tell which type of call it is. This switch detects whether it is a fax or not & will automatically connect the fax, or make the phone ring. This stops the user having to answer unnecessary calls.

Auto Squelch

Ensures that only strong transmission signals are received through users two way radio. This ensures that the users voice is the stronger transmission not background noise. Auto squelch is always active unless monitor function is switched on.

Auto Talk

Automatically connects the call when picking up the cordless handset from the base station.

Automatic Answer Facility

This means that when an incoming fax is received the machine will automatically answer the call for you.

Automatic Document Feeder (ADF)

When a fax is being sent the machine needs to read it page one at a time. Usually this is done by manually feeding each page one by one. To save time a user can stack the whole document into the automatic feeder, and the machine will feed the pages through automatically.

Automatic Redial

When a fax is sent sometimes the machine at the other end might be engaged or doing another function so can't answer. The automatic redial will save the fax your trying to send and try again at a later time. This means that the user does not have to stay by the machine and wait for the other fax to become free.

B

Baby monitor

Certain two way radios can be set to transmit constantly so any sound that is picked up can be heard on the other radios. This can be used to monitor a room and even as a traditional baby monitor.

Backlit Display

If the product is in a dark area standard LCD screens can not be seen. A backlit display will make the screen bright and easy to read, even if it is dark.

Base Station Listening

If a user wants to listen to a telephone conversation that is taking place on a cordless handset, they can from the speaker on the base station.

Base Station Range Extension

Extends the range of a DECT telephone

Batch Transmission

If a user is sending more than one fax to the same location then you can group them together and send them all at once. This saves time & cost of the telephone call.

Battery Backup

Certain products need a power source to function. In most cases this is done by a traditional mains power lead. However if a power loss happens a battery back up ensures the product still functions.

Battery Low Warning

This is an indicator that shows that the battery being used to run the product is in need a of replacing or charging back up.

Binaural

Headsets can have either one earpiece or two. Binaural means that the headset has a listening piece on both ears.

Bits Per Second (bps)

A measurement of how fast data is moved from one place to another. E.g. a fax modem that transmits at 9600bps is slower than one that transmits at 14600bps.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth technology lets you connect devices to each other, such as mobile phones, headsets, handheld PCs and personal digital assistants (PDAs) wirelessly over short distances.

Boom Microphone

The boom extends the microphone of a headset nearer to the users mouth. This enable the user to position the microphone in the optimum position to pick up the users voice,

Broadband

If you plugged a PC into a standard telephone line to surf the internet then the images and pages would appear quite slow. This is because the bandwidth is quite narrow. Broadband is the same as this but allows more data through via a bigger bandwidth. This means that surfing the internet would be much faster on a broadband line.

Busy monitor and busy lockout

If you are tuned into the same frequency as other two way radio users you would pick up what they were saying as well. However tone squelch will prevent you from hearing them, pressing the monitor button would disable this and allow you to hear if the frequency is busy. Busy lockout is similar but means that if other users were using the channel already it would stop you from transmitting meaning you would be forced to pick another channel. This is good if you wanted to prevent other users picking up your messages.

C

Call Alert Tone

This feature sends a signal to the other two way radio users that you want to communicate. This is usually a tone on the other persons two way radio.

Call Barring

This feature stops people from dialling out on the telephone line to specific numbers our even stop them altogether.

Call Clarity ™

Improves and enhances sound quality on Headsets for the clearest possible calls

Call Counter

This is a display that indicates the number of incoming calls the telephone has received.

Call Director

This feature means that the product can actually send the incoming call to a specific extension to ring.

Call Divert

Allows user to direct calls to a alternative extension/phone number/voicemail service when unanswered.

Call Forwarding

If a user is away from there phone then they can put there calls on forward to another extension. This means that the call will be re-directed & ring at the location they set it to.

Call Hold

Allows a call to be put on hold sometimes with music playing in the background.

Call Indicator Icon

If a call has been received whilst the user is away from the phone, the light will flash indicating they have missed a call. This makes it easy to spot and they can get back to people faster.

Call Indicator Light

When the telephone is ringing on an incoming call the call indicator light will flash. This makes it easy to spot the phone ringing even in noisy areas.

Call Intercept

If the phone is ringing on another handset to your own, call intercept will allow you to grab the call and answer it on your own handset.

Call List

If the user is subscribed to CLI the incoming numbers call is stored so the user has a record of activity at a later date.

Call Minder Message Indicator

BT call minder is a select service from BT that will answer your calls and take a message, the indicator light will flash after a message has been left.

Call Pick-up

If the phone is ringing on another handset to your own, call pick up will allow you to grab the call and answer it on your own handset.

Call Screening

This is where the incoming callers number is displayed before you answer, giving you the option of answering them or ignoring the call.

Call Sign

Provides different telephone numbers on the same line in order to differentiate between callers. When each number is called a different ring is heard so the user knows what has been dialled, i.e. business or personal (This does not provide a separate line)

Call Timer

Monitors the duration of a call from the beginning to the end.

Call Transfer

Allows a call to be transferred from one extension or handset to another.

Call Waiting

A beep occurs while a phone is engaged alerting the user to an incoming call. Users can choose whether to take or ignore the incoming call. On some phones the incoming callers number can be displayed as well.

Called ID

See Calling Line Identification.

Calling Line Identification (CLI)

Shows the incoming callers telephone number on the LCD Display

Cardioid Microphone

A microphone that picks up sound better from the front than the back. The pickup pattern is in the shape of a heart. This is an ideal style for the SoundStation as the speaker output is normally behind the mics.

Cat5

A standard of telephone cable that is used to deliver quite a high performance, as defined by EIA/TIA-568.

Central Office

American term for telephone exchange.

Centrex

Centrex is where the users telephone lines are connected like a telephone system, but by the company providing them. This means that the user can transfer calls between the telephone lines in the office, as if they had a telephone system. Each user would need there own phone line and a service charge for this applies to each line.

Channel

Two way radios can tune into different frequencies so that they do not communicate with other radios in the area. These frequencies are called channels.

Channel Scan

It will scan all the channels until is finds a channel with a transmission in progress.

ClearEffect ™

This is a feature that provides very clear sounding audio, even when wideband is not available.

Clipping

The loss of the beginnings of words or sentences as the speakerphone switches for receive to transmit.

Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV)

A camera that is being used to monitor a location and send a signal back to a screen is sometimes called CCTV.

CNG Tones

When a fax machine calls another machine it sends a signal down the line called a CNG tone. To the ear this is a high pitch sound and most people instantly recognise it as a fax call. This is so the other machine know it is about to receive a message.

Computer-Telephony Integration (CTI)

A way of linking computer software to the telephony product which enhances its abilities. Some computers can show call reports and allow you to add notes on screen after each call.

Conference Bridge

A facility of service that permits callers from several locations to be connected together for a conference call. The conference bridge contains electronics for amplifying and balancing the conference call so everyone can hear each other and speak to each other. Some telephone systems also have the facility to offer this service as well.

Connectivity

The ability to communicate between computers and terminals.

Connector 2.5 mm

The 2.5 mm jack connects headsets to wireless and cellular phones.

Connector 3.5 mm

The 3.5 mm jack connects headsets and microphones to portable audio equipment.

Continuous Tone Controlled Squelch (CTCSS)

On a two way radio there are a number of channels available to all users. Within these channels are sub channels which are sometimes called CTCSS channels. This is the radio coding the message and unless the other radio is on the same setting it won't receive the signal. This means that the user has a lot more channels to choose between to find a clear one.

Convertible headset

This is when a headset is not just able to be worn in a certain way. The user can change it from one style to another. For example over the head with a headband to over the ear.

D

Data Port

Allows users to connect a PC modem or other device to the telephone line.

Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT)

This is when the signal being sent between a cordless item and its base is digital instead of analogue. It is a far superior way and gives much better range and clarity. It does not meant that if it is a DECT phone then it’s a digital phone and can work on a digital line. It means the signal from the phone to its base station is digital.

Delayed Sending

Allows you to send a document at a pre-determined time; i.e., late at night to benefit cheaper call charges or if sending to a different time zone. This can also be done from a machines memory.

Dial-up access

This is when you use a standard telephone line to surf the internet through a computer. It can be very slow as the bandwidth for sending data is quiet narrow. See Broadbabd

Digital

A signal that is digital is sent through in a very similar way to the way a computer would talk. It is either yes or know. As it is much more precise it eliminates the majority of errors and possible interference.

Digital Coded Squelch (DCS)

On a two way radio there are a number of channels available to all users. Within these channels are sub channels which are sometimes called CTCSS channels. This is the radio coding the message and unless the other radio is on the same setting it won't receive the signal. This means that the user has a lot more channels to choose between to find a clear one. However a DCS channel is the same as this but it is digital as well. some radios have one or the other or both types available.

Digital Proprietary Device

Telephone equipment designed specifically for connection to a particular brand and model of PABX.

Digital recording

Old answering machines would have contained a tape that would store the recorded messages left. A digital recording is where this message is stored electronically inside the machine, making it easier to playback & delete.

Digital Security

If the security of the telephone is digital it is much more effective in stopping other people eavesdropping on the users calls.

Digital Signal Processing (DSP)

This is a technology that is used to transfer the sound coming from the headset/handset into the computer. As it is digital it offers a much better signal than an analogue one.

Digital Speech Quality

If a user is using a cordless device the digital speech quality would mean it is of the same standard as a corded telephone call.

Digital to Analogue (D-A)

If the socket that a product needs to plug into is for a digital phone then it would need a converter to be able to work. This is sometimes referred to as a digital to analogue converter.

Direct Dialling-In (DDI)

This is when a caller can ring a specific number that is allocated to a certain individual on a telephone system. Even though the line it is coming in on is available to everyone on the system. That particular number rings that individual only.

Disconnect Indicator

Alerts user that the phone has been disconnected.

Distinctive Ringing

If a telephone can see the CLI it can then set a different ring tone for different callers. This makes it very easy to tell who is calling.

Distributed Echo Cancellation ™

This stops the echo of a callers sound going back onto the telephone call taking place on the conference phone. This makes for a clearer call and a superior sound quality.

Document Memory

If a fax has run out of paper or ink consumable it will not be able to receive any faxes. To prevent lost information if the fax has a memory then it will store the faxes there until the missing part is restored. However the number of faxes is limited to the memory size.

Downloading

If you want to get a copy of a manual for example off a website you are one you will need to pull the data onto your computer. This is called downloading, getting the information from this place onto your location.

Dpi

If a product has a higher number of dots per inch then it will be able to make a clearer picture of the information. This is because these dots are able to present a sharper image if there are more of them.

Dual Access

Allows you to queue documents in the machines memory, which will be transmitted as soon as the line is free.

Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency (DTMF)

This is a type of signal that uses two tones to present the information it is sending. This is the type of frequency you would find on modem telephones.

E

Earth Recall

On most telephone and telephone line services the Recall button is used to access a service or feature. Earth Recall is a type of setting that is used on certain phone systems.

Eartip

The eartip in a headset is the small part that you actually put in the ear and sound comes out. This is normally replaceable and comes in many shapes and sizes.

Echo Cancellation

The ability to determine between sound waves generated by voices and eliminate the resulting echoes bouncing off walls and other objects in the room.

Echo Management ™

This monitors and maintains the sound quality even in noisy and windy environments

Encryption

If you want to send information to another person then what you can do is encrypt it before it is sent. Then only the person that has the key to unlock the encrypted information can read it.

Energy-saver mode

If the machine is just sat waiting for it to be used there is no point powering all the things needed for it when it is. Energy saver mode will lessen the power consumption and save on costly energy.

Ergonomic Handset

This is a handset that has been designed so that it is the best possible shape for the user for comfort and use.

Error Correction Mode (ECM)

When a fax receives the information from the sending machine it may sometimes not get all the information it needs. Error correction mode means that the fax will then ask for the missing information again.

Ethernet

Is a way of connecting a network of computers or other devices. This then enables them to communicate an send each other information. This is usually over a local area network or LAN.

Expandable

The product is not limited to the size or use it is set at now, it is able to grow and except add on part to make it larger.

F

Far End

The parties or party at the other end of the phone call.

Fast Forward Playback

When an answering machine has a message that has been recorded the user can play it back at one and a half times the speed. This can save time on lengthy messages that have unimportant information on them.

Fast Text Predictive Texting (FasTxt)

Lets you write text messages faster as it predicts the words that you are spelling out.

Fax Alarm

If the fax has a problem this alarm will inform you so you can rectify it before it causes any problems. This could be things such as no paper or no consumable.

Fax forwarding

If a user wants to send a document to another number once it has been received they can forward all the faxed calls. Once the fax has received the information it will then call the second location & sent the information on.

Fax Status Indication

If a user wants to have a record of which faxes have been sent without problem and which have not. This print out or display will tell them all the information they need.

Feedback

The proximity of the speaker and microphone is too close when they are both live. This is often heard as a high pitched howl or shrieking noise.

Firefly

Plantronics have an online indicator that is at the end of a headset microphone. This flashes when in use so nobody interrupts someone when on a call.

Flash Key

Function to be used for certain services, such as transferring calls, using BT Select Services and when using the product on a phone system. Most commonly called a Recall button but on some products it’s a flash key.

Flatbed Design

Instead of copying documents through a feeder the flatbed design allows the document or object to placed inside it for scanning. This means that pages of books or big objects that don't go through a feeder can be copied.

Flex-Grip™ (Plantronics Wireless)

This is a Plantronics design that helps the headsets fit to the ear and feel more comfortably.

Frequency Modulation (FM)

This is a frequency that is used by radio stations to send out their signal. If a product has an FM option it can listen to radio stations.

Full Duplex Sound

When a standard handsfree telephone is used it normally has to shut down the microphone when the speaker is working a vice versa. This is called clipping and can sometimes cut of the ends of conversations. Full Duplex allows the conversation to flow freely with non of this.

G

Gaming

Playing computer games on the PC or any of the consoles such as Xbox or Playstation is often referred to as gaming.

Generic Access Profile (GAP)

Any wireless product that is GAP compatible should be able to work with a another manufacturers product that is also GAP. This allows handsets from one brand to be able to work with another. However sometimes other factures prevent this from working.

Grey Scale

Is the number of different shades that the printer can use in order to make an image onto the paper. The more grey scales the better the print.

Group Dialling

Allows you to call all handsets simultaneously.

Group Listening

This is when more than one handset can join into a conversation that is happening.

H

Handset Intercom

This is when two phones can call and talk with each other when they are on the same phone system or internal network.

Handset Lifter (HL10)

If a headset is plugged into a traditional desk phone the usual way to answer the incoming call is by lifting the receiver. This device does this for you automatically or at the touch of a button. However it is designed to work with some of Plantronics headsets only.

Handset Priority

When an incoming call is received the user can designate which phone they want to ring.

Hardware

This refers to a product that has a physical presence, unlike a piece of software one the computer. The computer represents the hardware, whilst the program is the software.

Hard-wired

This refers to a product that has to be physically connected into something for it to work. For example the cable has to be hardwired into the plug.

I

Information Technology (IT)

This is things such as computers and things associated with them such as the software on them & printers attached.

Inline

This is anything that is connected in-between the product and what it is being plugged into.

In-line Volume Control

Sometimes found on the headset cable between the headset and the telephone. This allows the user to increase the volume of the call.

Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)

Presented as two channels every ISDN line can actually either make two phone calls using each channel, or be joined together to send and receive large amounts of information. Some video conferencing equipment use ISDN to send and receive the video and sound, the more lines used the better the quality of picture at each end.

Intellitone ™

Insures there's always a safe consistent volume level.

Intercom

This is when two phones can call and talk with each other when they are on the same phone system or internal network.

Internal Call Waiting

If you are on a call on a telephone connected to a telephone system sometimes internal call waiting is a facility available. What this does is omit a sound letting you know when someone else is trying to call you as well.

Internal/External Ringing

On a telephone system users need to be able distinguish if a call is coming from inside the system or from an outside line. This is usually because the phone is answered differently. The phone will ring differently for internal call and external calls making it easy to tell.

Internet Protocol (IP)

This is the signal that is used to communicate over the internet, it is a set standard so that everyone who is online can communicate with each other.

Internet Protocol address (IP address)

This is sometimes called a dotted quad and is set of numbers that tells other devices exactly where they are on the internet. Every device that is connected to the internet has an IP address.

Internet Service Provider (ISP)

This is the company that is providing the access to the Internet. It usually requires some form of subscription for continued service.

Intranet

An Intranet works on a similar principle to that of the Internet but is restricted, allowing only defined users to access the network. Often companies will have their own Intranet that they use to communicate internal messages.

In-use Indicator

This is a light that will show everyone else that you are on a call and should not be disturbed. Often headset wearers do not take the headset off between calls so it is hard to tell when they are not on a call.

J

Journal

A list of information about the previous 30 received and transmitted faxes. TX means Transmit and RX means Receive.

K

Keypad Lock

This allows the user to stop button being pressed by accident and a call being made, or a radio frequency being made.

L

Last Number Redial

Stores the most recent number dialled and rings it again at the touch of a button.

Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)

This is the display on the product that show information in a visual format. These screens come in a variety of shapes and sizes and even in colour. Typical display information are things such as call timer, clock, CLI, etc.

Local Area Network (LAN)

When a group of computers are connected together so they are communicate it done over a network. A local area network is one that is at the same location.

M

Memory Secure Mode

Allows you to completely disable your Fax/MFC product using a four-digit code. Incoming messages can still be received, but only printed upon re-entering the security code.

Memory without power

Allows user to disconnect the phone without losing the numbers stored in the memory.

Message Capacity Alert

When the memory is full normally the product can no longer except any messages. If this happens an alert will sound so the user can clear some space so it can function again.

Message Counter

If a user wants to know how many messages are on a machine quickly the message counter is an LCD display that will do just that.

Microfilter

When ADSL or Broadband is provided a signal is sent down the line so the computer can use the higher bandwidth provided. This signal to the ear sounds like a hissing or buzzing sound. The Microfilter is the device that takes away this sound when a telephone is plugged into it.

Mimic Capability

If a telephone is registered to a new base station it then copies all the setting on the base. This saves time setting up the handset.

Modem

This is the device a computer or fax will use to transmit the information it is sending down a telephone line. It sends the information in packets of data that is then picked up by the modem at the other end.

Modem data speed

The speed a modem sends its data depicts how quickly the information will get from one location to another. The faster the modem the faster it will transmit and spend less time on the call.

Monaural

Headsets can have either one earpiece or two. Monaural means that the headset has a listening piece on one ear.

Multifunctional

Allows user to print, scan, copy and send and receive faxes on a single device.

Multipoint ™

When a headset is Bluetooth it can be pared to another device so they talk wirelessly. Multipoint allows you to pair the product to multiple devices so you can flick between them. This save time re-pairing every time you want to switch devices.

Multi-Resolution Transmit

Standard feature on all Brother machines. Enables different kind of information within a document e.g. Text, Photographs, to be sent with a different resolution setting to suit each separate page

Music On Hold

When a call is put on hold instead of hearing nothing music is played so they don't think they have been cut off.

Mute Function

Ability to cut off the sound being sent so the other end of the call does not hear what is being said.

N

Navigator Wheel

This is a small dial that allows you to flick between the menu's on the BT converse telephone.

Network

Is a way of connecting computers or other devices. This then enables them to communicate an send each other information. This is usually over a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN)

Noise suppressor

This is a small spoon shaped device that is fitted to the end of the Plantronics voice tube. It then helps to block out surrounding noise and collect the users voice.

Noise-cancelling

If a product has noise cancelling then what it is doing is blocking out surrounding noise and only collecting the users voice. This is very useful in noisy environments as the user sounds much clearer and is easier to understand.

O

Omni-Directional

If the sound might come from any direction then an Omni microphone may be used. This kind of microphone collects the sound from all directions, ideal for conferencing.

Operating Range

This is the distance that the cordless product can move away from its transmitter before it is out of range.

Optical Character Recognition (OCR)

Allows user to translate scanned text into files that can be edited.

Out of Range Warning

When the user is nearing the end of the range they can go before the cordless product stops working, and alert is sounded to warn them to stop.

P

Paging

If you want to contact someone you can page them by pressing the paging button. This then makes the device they are wearing make a sound or sometimes vibrate. This is useful on two way radios as the beep is sometimes easier to hear than someone talking.

Paging Facility

Allows the user to make the telephone handset ring by pushing a button on the base station.

PerSono Software

PerSono (Plantronics DSP Headsets) is a software suite designed to enhance sound quality when connected to a PC. It allows the user to change the sound settings with graphic equalisers etc.

Photo Mode

This is a setting that uses the best print quality for producing photo prints. It is not always switched on as it does use slightly more ink.

PMR 446

Private mobile radio is the license free frequency available for two way radios to use. If a two way radio is made to work on a different frequency then it will not talk to a PMR446 radio.

Polaris

Polaris is a range of Plantronics headsets that they make with a higher amplification than their normal headsets. Some telephones such as the BT Meridian need to have a headset with a louder sound to work.

Polling

Is a facility of pulling information that is stored on another fax machine and printing it off on yours. Good for companies to post information on a machine but not wasting resources sending it out to everyone.

Polyphonic Ringtones

Usual telephone ringers only use one note at a time, where Polyphonic ringing uses multiple notes to give a richer sound.

Poster Mode

Scan your A4 original once, then see it blown up to nine times its original size (3x3).

Pre-dialling Facility

This facility lets the user input the telephone number they want to dial before they want it to. This means that the user can check the number is right before they ring.

Private Automatic Branch Exchange (PABX)

This is another term for a telephone system that allows users to communicate on one site. Each telephone connected to the system can make calls internally and externally, and transfer to other users if it is not for them.

Private Mobile Radio (PMR)

This is another term for two way radios, devices that can communicate with other buy using Radio frequencies. They transmit the signal from the radio and the second radio will pick this up and the user can here the speech.

Programmable Keys

On some telephones the buttons on them can be programmed as a different function. For example on some system telephones different people will want to have certain people set up on there quick dial list. So to make life easier they program there extension number into one of these keys, and they can ring that number at the touch of one button.

PTT

This is when speech is only sent when a button is pressed. This feature is mostly only used on two way radios however some telephones have this setting when used in high security and confidential areas.

Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)

This is BT's term for the network of telephone lines they have. It is also what they sometimes call an analogue telephone line when its referred to as a PSTN line.

Q

QD or Quick disconnect

This is a feature on a lot of headsets and allows the user to unplug without having to remove the headset. It is a connector in between the headset and the phone and allows the headset to be unplugged or connected at speed. This also means that a telephone can have a cable connected all the time but different users plugging in with their own headset.

QuickAdjust™ telescoping microphone boom

A feature found on Plantronics headsets that allows the user to position the microphone boom for the optimum sound. Maybe the user has a slightly different shaped head, or speaks very quietly.

Quickcall ™

Headsets with this feature allow the user to swivel the headband away and hold the earpad to the ear for convenience on short calls.

QuickPair ™

Cordless headsets come with a base that transmits the signal to the wireless headset. So instead of unplugging the base each time a new user wants to use their headset. Quick Pair enables them to have a wireless headset of their own, but quickly register it to the existing base station.

Quickscan

This feature enables the user to quickly scan the information into the fax machines memory before transmission.

R

Radio frequency (RF)

Describes the portion of the spectrum used to transmit radio signals.

RCA Jack

Audio jack commonly used for consumer media recording and playback devices (tape decks, CD players, VCR's etc).

Recall

This is a function key that is used to access features on most telephone systems and telephone lines. There are different Recall settings and certain telephones allow you to change these settings on the phone itself. The most common use for the Recall button on a telephone system is for putting a call on hold, enabling transfer.

Remote Answering Machine Access

If a user wants to be able to access the messages left on an answering machine in another location, remote access allows them to do this. It lets the user ring into the answering machine, and type an access code to play any messages.

Remote Terminal Identification

When a fax machine sends a message it also transmits information about itself, such as the company name sending the fax as well as the telephone number. This information is then printed on the top of the fax when it is printed out.

Repeat Dial

This feature enables the user to keep redialling a number without having to input it each time.

Ring Back when Free

If a line is engaged when you ring it, this feature will ring you back as soon as it becomes free. This saves time ringing the number to keep checking if it is free or not.

RJ-11

A six conductor modular plug that is typically wired with four wires.

RJ-14

Same as RJ11 but instead it has two telephone lines provided to it. The centre connections defining line one, and the outer pair defining line two.

RJ-45

A eight conductor modular plug that is commonly used for data communications over standard telephone wire.

Room Acoustics

The acoustic treatment of the room, specifically furnishing and decor. Optimal room acoustics include carpeting, soft furniture, dropped tile acoustic ceilings, wood tables and some sort of wall treatment. Less than optimum room acoustics include large or many windows, polished wood or tiled floors, metal, glass or stone tables, plain plaster walls and high plaster ceilings.

S

Scan and Dual watch

When two way radios communicate they need to be set on the same channel in order for them to talk to each other. If you are unsure what channel the other user is on, scan lets the radio go through all the channels listening for activity. As soon as it hears a sound the user can then decide whether it is the right channel or to carry on scanning. Dual watch allows the user to listen to two channels for activity, useful if you have to groups of people each on different channels.

Scrambler

To ensure privacy from eavesdropping scrambling can be used. For example when a private message is transmitted all the third party will hear is a garbled message.

Secrecy

Allows caller to silence the phones microphone so conversation is not heard.

Service provider

Telephone lines that are fitted into homes and businesses are done so by service providers.

Short Messages Service (SMS)

More commonly found on mobile phones SMS is a service that allows the user to send short text messages to another user.

SIM Card Reader

It can sometimes take a long time to transfer names and phone numbers from one phone to the next, especially when some phones can hold 200 of them. The Sim card reader allows you to transfer all the names and numbers of a mobile phones sim into the phones directory, this can save a lot of time, especially if there is more than one handset.

Small Office Home Office (SOHO)

This is a term that is used to describe a user that is in a small office or works from home. It is used as this type of person would not normally need products that are designed for larger offices that are used more often i.e. number of faxes.

Smoothing

This is a feature that is used to fade in any jagged edges that are sometimes left when dots are used to print an image. This means that high quality pictures such a photos still look just as sharp.

Sound Enhancement System ™ (SES)

This system allows the user to adjust the base and treble on a call to enhance the sound they are listening to. It is a small switch that is located on the back of the earpiece of the Encore headsets, that slides up and down.

SoundGuard Plus ™

Plantronics SoundGuard Plus™ technology monitors and predicts daily personal noise exposure. It also ensures that loud tones are quickly reduced and that any transient ‘pops’ are instantly capped, ensuring that the speech remains natural and unchanged.

Standby

The number of hours the wireless product can be removed from the base unit, unused but switched on, before charging is required

Standby-Time

When a wireless or cordless product is used it will have a battery inside that powers the unit. When it is not in use but switched on this is called the standby time. It is different than the time when it is in use as more power is consumed when a product is being used. Therefore the standby time is the length of time a product can stay switched on before it runs out of power.

Station ID

Station ID on a fax machine is the name and number that is stored on the unit itself. This is what is transmitted to the receiving fax machine to print on the top of the fax page.

Switch

An alternative word for telephone system

T

Talk-time

The talk time of a wireless or cordless product is the amount of time it can be used before it runs out of power. For example if a wireless headset has an 8hr talk time it will work for 8hrs constantly before it switches off.

Text Messaging

This enables the user to send a message in text to another user that has the text messaging facility. Also see SMS

Thermal Transfer

Thermal transfer is a printing process in which heat transfers carbon ink from a ribbon to plain paper.

Transmit, Transmitter, Transmitting (TX)

Strength of the signal/amplification that is sent

Two Way Record

Allows user to record telephone conversations as they occur.

Two-way radio

These are devices that will transmit and receive speech to a similar device. They are usually a handheld device which are used to let staff communicate between each other. The users have to be on the same channel but there is no limit to how many devices can be used at once.

U

Universal Serial Bus (USB)

This is a type of connection that is used to connect devices to each other. Most commonly found on computers and can be used to connect headsets and offers a better connection than the traditional headset plugs.

V

Video Display Unit (VDU)

A combination of computer monitor screen and keyboard.

Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

This technology allows you to make calls through your computer by the help of a microphone or headset, at greatly reduced cost.

VOX Operation

When a user is using a product such as a two way radio they will need to press a button each time they want to transmit a message. If they have a VOX facility the radio will automatically detect the sound and transmit it without the need of a button press.

W

Walk and Talk Feature

Cordless handsets can normally only communicate with each other within the range of the base station that they speak to. However if a cordless phone has the walk and talk feature, two handsets can be set to talk to each other regardless of where the base station is.

Wavelength

Wavelength is the type frequency that two way radios use to communicate with each other. The PMR radios use a UHF or ultra high frequency to send their signals between each other. High wavelengths tend to penetrate objects and buildings better where shorter wavelengths travel a longer distance but don't pass through objects as well.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

When a group of computers are connected together enabling them to communicate over a network. A Wide Area Network combines machines from a range of locations into a single usable network.

Wideband

Has a greater information handling capacity that Narrowband. Enabling a greater amount of soundwaves to travel making sounds and conversation clearer. This only happens when both sides of the call have a product that also has wideband capability

Wi-Fi

If a user wants to connect a computer to broadband then they would have to physically plug it into the line. However if the user has a wireless modem plugged in they could send a signal that the computer could pick up and gain access to the broadband line. This signal is often referred to as Wi-Fi and is often used in an area to allow multiple users to connect.

Windscreen

On certain Plantronics noise cancelling headsets the microphone is covered by a foam cushion, which they call the windscreen cover.

Windsmart ™ Technology

Reduces noise distortion caused by windy environments

Wireless adapter

If a user wants their computer to be able to pick up a Wi-Fi signal they would need it to have an adapter built in. However if it does not have one already the wireless adapter can be fitted which enables it to pick up the signal.

Wireless broadband

If a user wants to connect a computer to broadband then they would have to physically plug it into the line. However if the user has a wireless modem plugged in they could send a signal that the computer could pick up and gain access to the broadband line. This signal is often referred to as Wi-Fi and is often used in an area to allow multiple users to connect.

Wireless Connectivity

Allows communication between devices without the need for wires.

Wireless Repeater

Cordless phones consist of a handset and the base station that sends the signal to them. The handset will only be able to function within the range of the base station. However if a user wants to extend the range they are getting they can if it has a wireless repeater available for it.

Numeric

1471 Feature

A way of finding out what the number was of the person that has just called you is by dialling 1471. The number is then announced back to the user. Instead of having to dial 1471 every time this handy button is a speed dial doing just that.

1571 Message Indicator

BT answer 1571 is and answering machine service that will take messages when the phone is engaged or unanswered. To save time checking if a message is there by picking up the handset, a flashing light will tell you straight away.

2 in 1 Copy Mode

When copying an A4 page instead of printing onto another two sheets of paper, this allows the user to resize and copy both sides onto one page . This saves cost and space for storage.

4 in 1 Copy Mode

Same as two in one copy but fits four A4 sheets onto one page.