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If I convert to ISDN, can I keep my existing telephone numbers? |
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In most cases the answer is 'yes' but we will confirm this with BT on your behalf. Most modern exchanges have the right equipment to enable you to keep your telephone numbers. In the few cases where this cannot be done we can discuss suitable alternatives with you.
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Will we outgrow this system if we expand? |
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This is a very important consideration and before any decision is made one of our consultants will explain the maximum expansion capacity of the system you are considering. It is always wise to allow some spare capacity for future growth.
However should you need to upgrade to a larger system Siemens make it easy for you. The handsets are universal across the range, so they can always be retained. Furthermore most of the systems share common components, so we can usually install a larger system but utilise much of your existing hardware. This keeps the cost of future upgrades to a minimum
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How can I be sure that this system will not become obsolete very quickly because technology is moving so fast? |
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It is true that telecommunications is changing rapidly. However the major development in recent years has been the growth in digital ISDN technology. All Siemens switches are fully digital and are totally compliant to European ISDN standards. Furthermore the systems are software based enabling new facilities to be added when they become available, without major expense on hardware.
As the leading Telephone System manufacturer in the World, Siemens are at the forefront of all new developments. Therefore you can be confident of a long terms 'future proof' solution. |
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Do we really need ISDN? |
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Not necessarily!
ISDN is very powerful technology and it can radically change and improve the way you work. Facilities such as 'direct dialling' and 'calling line identity', as well as faster and more accurate data transmission, can be of major benefit to your business.
However if after evaluating these options you feel no compelling reason to utilise ISDN, (and we will advise you) then you can retain analogue lines.
This situation may change though, so it is essential that the system installed is fully ISDN compatible. All Hicom switches are fully digital and can very easily and economically be upgraded to support ISDN when required. |
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Do I really need such a sophisticated system? |
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A high level of sophistication is built into all the Siemens systems. However, due to the volume of sales throughout the world, the true cost of this sophistication is not passed on to you as the customer. The Siemens systems can be used at a very basic level and is world renowned for its ease of use. The in-built level of sophistication enables the Siemens systems a high degree of future proofing, allowing you to take advantage of new services offered across the network or changes in the way your company currently works.
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Can we use a cordless phone on this system? |
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Yes. Both types of cordless can be used on the Siemens systems. Individual cordless phones can be connected via analogue extensions making this a very cost-effective option for small to medium sites. A more sophisticated cordless solution, supporting a number of handsets and providing true cellular coverage can be incorporated in to the Siemens system. This is more suitable for large sites. We will be happy to advise you on the best solution for your business.
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Can I access the Internet through my system? |
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In short, yes it is possible to utilise the telephone system to gain access to the Internet. There are several ways of achieving this depending on how your computer network is currently set up. Upon identifying your requirements, we will discuss in detail the most appropriate and effective way of doing this. In essence however, the telephone system acts as a "gateway" to your Internet service provider and the outside world.
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What happens in the event of a power failure? |
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If you have analogue telephone lines it is possible to ensure that a percentage of them will ring to specific analogue telephones when the power fails. This is no longer a legal requirement, but Integra ict will always provide this facility as part of our quality control process.
However, when ISDN (Digital) lines are involved, if you wish to continue operating when a power cut occurs, then some kind of back up power supply will be required. There are a number of alternatives to consider, ranging from a Siemens integral battery, giving about 30 minutes cover to an external UPS (uninterruptible power supply) which can be from 1 to 8 hours in duration. We will discuss your needs and advise you accordingly.
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Can I keep my existing telephones? |
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Yes, existing analogue telephones can be used and there is no need to change unless there are clear reasons or benefits in doing so. Of course if you require specific facilities such as CLI (calling line identity) or message waiting lamps, then we would recommend that you install Optiset digital terminals.
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If our company were to move premises in the future, could we take our Hicom with us? |
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Indeed you could! All that would be required would be our engineering staff to decommission the system at the 'old' site and re-commission and re-programme it at the new premises. Should you be moving a considerable distance Integra ict would still be pleased to undertake the project.
If your requirements at the new site are significantly different, we will advise you on the options available, including all possible upgrade paths. |
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Will the new system be as easy to use as our old one? |
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Yes, the Siemens telephone system is one of the easiest of all systems to use. This has been achieved through the unique design of the handsets that utilise an active step by step display. With this system called the "Optiguide" the user is made to feel comfortable and confident in its operation. The instruction manual although provided, will be largely redundant.
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How long will my system be down for during installation? |
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This is an important consideration for any business and frankly it varies depending on a number of factors. However, prior to the installation our engineers will discuss what will be involved and how it will impact on your business. In general terms the down time is minimal and will not be a major problem for you, however, if there is to be an extended period in the transition we will discuss this in advance and schedule the "changeover" to be outside of office hours i.e. an evening or weekend |
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Can I use my existing wiring? |
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The Hicom range is designed to remove much of the turmoil that is historically associated with a change of system. Therefore in most cases we can use your current wiring as the Hicom can send digital signals over your existing wires.
Before we utilise your current wiring, tests are carried out to confirm that the wiring is to the required maintainable standard.
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