Advice on Small Business Phone System ?

Edwards Finance > Phones

Q. I have looked at Nortel CICS, but I don't think I can have the fax and digital answering machine on the system with out having an expensive analog card. I don't like the idea of a dedicated fax line. We are a small office and currently only have two lines that trunk with DSL and fax on the second line, so I would like to have the possibility of trunking over to that third line on the system.

A. The no-longer-available Nortel 6x16 sounds like it will suit your current needs and are very affordable on E-Bay right now (used), but ... I do not believe this system is expandable beyond 6 lines and 16 extensions. Also, purchasing used equipment w/o warranty is a risky propostion. You could end up with a smoking hunk of plastic and no recourse. I recommend to clients on a budget a new KSU (system) and used or re-furbished phones. That's a relatively safe way to save $$$. I have rarely seen Nortel phones go bad, regardless of age. You CAN run your fax machine and answering machine on any phone system by installing them between the CO lines and the system. Only problem (without dedicated fax #) is knowing when an incoming fax arrives (fax switch might help). Also, the Nortel CICS has a built in ATA port that can be programmed to ring an answering machine or fax if you so desire. The Nortel CICS (8 x 16 configuration) is a very good investment and can be had NEW with NEW phones for slightly more than your budget. Programming is user-friendly (even with "non-techhies") You can program the CICS to ring independently on different lines, in effect running 2 ~ 3 offices from one system. Cost can be recovered/reduced by leasing system access to other tenants in building. You can also add voice mail to this system. Older 6 x 16's do not work with newer StarTalk boxes. I guarantee you will be very happy with the Nortel CICS. Have you considered the AT&T 4-line "KSU-less" phones? Model numbers are 944, 954 & 964 (about $89 ~ $129 @ Office Depot). I recently installed 4 of these in a new chiropractic office (in conjunction with fax/dsl/ans. mach.) and the client is very pleased. These can do almost everything a phone system can do (hold, transfer, MOH, conference) and are expandable up to 12 unique extensions. My advice: Trying to save money on phone systems by "doing-it-yourself" can lead to more expense and headaches down the road (I certainly wouldn't try to adjust myself!). Call 3 ~ 4 "phone guys" in your area (ask for references!) and have them compete for your business. You will save money in the long run and can concentrate on your profession.

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