Glossary

If you are new to Skype or Voip, we hope the below definition of terms will make your purchasing decisions a little bit easier. For more help please either visit our FAQ section or Phone Advisor.

USB PhonesPhones that connect to the internet via the usb port on your computer. They must be connected via a usb port at all times in order to work. These phones are recommended if you require a simple set up and a cost effective handset.

Cordless PhonesPhones that allow you to roam within a certain range of your computer or base station. These phones can also come as dual phones or computer free phones.

Computer Free PhonesPhones that do not require a computer to work. These phones do not need to be connected to a computer or have the computer power on in order to work. They must be connected to a router however. These phones can come as both desktop and cordless phones and can also be dual phones. These phones are recommended if you wish to make calls at anytime during the day without the need for your computer to be on. This can also help reduce your energy consumption.

DualphonesPhones that allow you to make either skype/voip or landline calls from the same device. Their base station connects to a landline and computer or router. They can come as computer free phones as well as desktop or cordless phones. These phones are recommended if you wish to reduce the clutter of phones in your home or office and use one handset type to make and receive all outgoing and incoming calls.

Desktop PhonesThese phones are corded and look and function in a similar way to an ordinary desktop phone. They are predominantly used by home businesses and SME’s but are also well suited to general personal use. Some versions are also available as computer free phones or dual phones.

Wi-Fi PhonesSimilar in shape and style to a mobile phone, these phones allow you to make and receive calls in wi-fi zones, be that at home, work or in public areas. These phones only make Skype calls and do not function as a mobile phone or any other phone device.

Mobile PhonesThese phones act as both a mobile phone and a skype/voip phone. Skype/voip software is embedded in the phone allowing you to take advantage of free calls to other skype/voip users , whilst normal mobile calls can be made on the same handset via the mobile network provider.

HeadsetsHeadsets allow you to handle calls hands free. These usually plug into the computer’s USB port or mic and headset socket but can also be Bluetooth enabled. A headset is worn with headphones for hearing your caller and a microphone for speaking.

WebcamsAll our webcams are Skype compatible. These allow the receiving caller to view you as they talk to you. Please note, in order for you to view them, they also need a webcam at their end. Webcams come in various specifications to suit your computer and quality needs and can either stand alone or attach to your computer.

Business PhonesBusiness phones can be sold as either complete systems, working along-side your current landline system or replacing it, or as simple solution using an exchange box and minor wiring changes. Alternatively, we offer standard single unit phones to businesses at a discounted rate based on volume.

DriversDrivers are the software applications that are required to be downloaded to your computer before using your phone. The majority of phones require drivers to be installed on your computer before use, but some have drivers inbuilt and ready to use. We house all the drivers needed for the phones we sell on our site. These can be downloaded from the ‘driver downloads’ section on our site. Additionally, many phones will come boxed with the driver software on a CD.