Save $5 on Packet8 w/ Coupon Code "bbphone"

Packet8 Adapter Offers Two Line Access

2005-03-14T10:50:00.000-08:00

New Packet8 Broadband VoIP Adapter Offers Two Line Access: "-- 8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT - News), the Packet8 broadband voice over internet protocol (VoIP) and videophone communications service provider, announced the introduction of a new dual port broadband phone adapter, the Packet8 BPA-410.
The Packet8 BPA-410 is equipped with two switched Ethernet ports and two RJ-11 phone service ports, enabling a customer to activate multiple Packet8 service plans without any additional hardware. Each phone jack operates independently, with separate Packet8 phone numbers and service. The second Ethernet port can be used to connect to a PC or other networked device, eliminating the need for an extra Ethernet switch hub.
'Many of our customers have been asking for a low-cost device with two phone lines,' said Huw Rees, 8x8 Vice President of Marketing & Sales. 'The BPA-410 enables customers to install multiple lines of Packet8 VoIP service with one device. The switched Ethernet port also reduces the wiring issues associated with simultaneous VoIP service and high-speed internet access.'
The Packet8 BPA-410 carries a suggested retail price of $69.95 with a monthly service fee of $19.95 per line for unlimited calls to the U.S. and Canada. Activation fees are $29.95 for the first line and $9.95 for the second line."

Survey: VoIP Can Save Enterprises From $9,600 To $28,000 Per Site

2004-11-18T06:20:00.000-08:00

Source: http://informationweek.networkingpipeline.com/news/53700101

Survey: VoIP Can Save Enterprises From $9,600 To $28,000 Per Site

"A new study has found that it costs an enterprise between $525 and $1,512 per user to implement VoIP, but the eventual savings can be substantial, ranging between $9,600 and $28,000 per site annually for large enterprises.

The study, "Convergence: Reality at Last," by Nemertex Research, asserts that startup costs are dependent on a number of variables, include enterprise size and which vendor companies chose to supply the VoIP solution. It found that size does matter, and that the average initial cost of a VoIP deployment, including hardware such as IP PBXs and handsets as well as planning an implementation services, was $525 per user in deployments of 1000 users or more, and $763 in deployments of 100 users and less.

On average, according to Nemertes, companies spend $17,220 on network assessments, to determine whether their existing data networks are ready to carry voice traffic.

There are substantial cost savings to be had in VoIP for companies, though. The report note that large companies can save between $9,600 and $28,000 per site annually on local loop costs by converging their networks, and mid-sized enterprises can realize annual cost reductions of between $4,800 and $9,600. However, according to Robin Gareiss, Nemertes principal research officer and the report's author, enterprises have to be careful to consider the differences in real costs when planning a VoIP implementation."

A New Report On Broadband Phone Services Helps Consumers Understand This New Technology

2004-10-16T08:41:00.000-07:00

A New Report On Broadband Phone Services Helps Consumers Understand This New Technology : Onlypunjab.com Team- Entertainment News, Movie News, Music News, Humour News, Outrageous Acts - Onlypunjab.com: "Packet8 was mentioned by name in the report because it is the best fit for most residential and small business applications. Packet8 provides and outstanding price point and the greatest local number availability of all ProvideTechnology's current VoIP providers along with local number portability and 911 support for many cities."

8x8 Named Among Top 15 VoIP Companies of 2004

2004-10-12T09:55:00.000-07:00

8x8 Named Among Top 15 VoIP Companies of 2004: "8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT - News), the Packet8 broadband voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) and videophone communications service provider, today announced that it has been selected as a member of FierceVoIP's annual list of 'The Fierce 15,' honoring it as one of the top 15 emerging IP telephony companies for 2004. FierceVoIP, an internationally recognized email newsletter covering the VoIP and Internet telephony industry, evaluated more than 300 VoIP companies based on company vision, revenue potential, quality of deals and partnerships, and competitive market position.
'8x8 is fierce because it isn't content to exist just as a low-cost VoIP service provider,' said John Edwards, Editor of FierceVoIP. 'The company sees IP telephony in its true form: as a full-fledged and revolutionary 21st century communications medium with boundless potential.'"

8x8 Named Among Top 15 VoIP Companies of 2004

2004-10-12T09:54:00.000-07:00

8x8 Named Among Top 15 VoIP Companies of 2004: "8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT - News), the Packet8 broadband voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) and videophone communications service provider, today announced that it has been selected as a member of FierceVoIP's annual list of 'The Fierce 15,' honoring it as one of the top 15 emerging IP telephony companies for 2004. FierceVoIP, an internationally recognized email newsletter covering the VoIP and Internet telephony industry, evaluated more than 300 VoIP companies based on company vision, revenue potential, quality of deals and partnerships, and competitive market position.

'8x8 is fierce because it isn't content to exist just as a low-cost VoIP service provider,' said John Edwards, Editor of FierceVoIP. 'The company sees IP telephony in its true form: as a full-fledged and revolutionary 21st century communications medium with boundless potential.'"

8x8 Named Among Top 15 VoIP Companies of 2004

2004-10-12T09:53:00.000-07:00

8x8 Named Among Top 15 VoIP Companies of 2004: "8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT - News), the Packet8 broadband voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) and videophone communications service provider, today announced that it has been selected as a member of FierceVoIP's annual list of 'The Fierce 15,' honoring it as one of the top 15 emerging IP telephony companies for 2004. FierceVoIP, an internationally recognized email newsletter covering the VoIP and Internet telephony industry, evaluated more than 300 VoIP companies based on company vision, revenue potential, quality of deals and partnerships, and competitive market position.

'8x8 is fierce because it isn't content to exist just as a low-cost VoIP service provider,' said John Edwards, Editor of FierceVoIP. 'The company sees IP telephony in its true form: as a full-fledged and revolutionary 21st century communications medium with boundless potential.'"

8x8 to Showcase Packet8 Broadband Consumer VideoPhone and VoIP Offerings at DigitalLife

2004-10-11T12:53:00.000-07:00

8x8 to Showcase Packet8 Broadband Consumer VideoPhone and VoIP Offerings at DigitalLife: "8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT - News), the Packet8 broadband voice over internet protocol (VoIP) and videophone communications service provider, will demonstrate the Packet8 consumer VideoPhone and VoIP service at DigitalLife (Booth # 1866), a new four-day special event that brings together the latest in digital technology for the home, work and play.
DigitalLife (www.digitallife.com) will be held October 14-17, 2004 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. The special event is expected to attract more than 25,000 consumers and technology enthusiasts -- all eager to experience the next-generation in digital technology products."

[Packet8] Tell my why not to get Vitual Office

2004-10-10T12:21:00.000-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � [Packet8] Tell my why not to get Vitual Office: "[Packet8] Tell my why not to get Vitual Office
Hi Everyone. I've read a lot here and posted many questions which got some great answers. Now I am about to take the plunge and get Virtual Office for my 3-person business. All three of us work mostly from cellphones or at home (though we do have one office in Chicago that gets used occasionally) and one of us is in San Francisco.

So P8's Virtual Office sounds nearly perfect, at $120/month for three lines of unlimited calling. I wish we didn't have to buy three full-price incoming/outgoing lines (we will never be using more than one line to call out at a time), but at $40 each it's not too bad, and there is a built-in auto attendant which is fantastic. On the downside, it seems the lines aren't so feature-rich (no call hunting or voicemail email notification.

Am I missing anything? Am I making a mistake? What should I worry about? "

8x8 Announces Availability of Virtual and Toll Free Numbers for Packet8 Virtual Office Business VoIP Service

2004-10-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

8x8 Announces Availability of Virtual and Toll Free Numbers for Packet8 Virtual Office Business VoIP Service: "Effective immediately, Packet8 Virtual Office users can now choose various new services including Virtual Phone Numbers, Toll Free Numbers, and Switchboard Operator Console.
Virtual Phone Numbers allow Virtual Office subscribers to provide local inbound telephone numbers from areas outside of their main number or extension DIDs. Subscribers can select Virtual Numbers from all United States area codes Packet8 supports for a small monthly fee of $4.95 per number and a one-time activation fee of $9.95. Adding Virtual Numbers offers benefits such as enabling an enterprise to show a local presence in a geographic area without physically residing there and facilitating a cost-savings local calling capability for an organization's customers or colleagues.
The second new Virtual Office service is Toll Free Numbers, an inexpensive way for Virtual Office subscribers to offer clients the ability to contact them at no charge regardless of their location inside the United States or the company's location worldwide. Packet8's Toll Free Service Plan involves a flat monthly fee of $4.95 including 100 minutes of inbound toll-free calls and an industry low of 3.9 cents a minute thereafter for inbound calls. A one time $9.95 activation fee per number applies.
Finally, Virtual Office users can now expand the functionality of their system with Switchboard, Virtual Office's Operator Software Console Application, available for $19.95 per month with a $9.95 activation fee. Switchboard improves the efficiency of an operator's call management by providing a receptionist with a graphical overview of the users on the virtual office service and a simple way to manage an organization's telecommunication activity. Switchboard works on a PC in conjunction with the Internet and the Virtual Office telephones. Additionally, Switchboard enables operators to have:
-- Direct status view of extension's status: DND, On-line, idle
-- Click to call, click to transfer call control
-- Direct transfer to extension and voice mail
-- Supervised transfers
"

8x8 Raises $12 Million in Sale of Common Stock

2004-10-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

8x8 Raises $12 Million in Sale of Common Stock: "8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT - News) today announced that it has agreed to sell 3,508,772 shares of common stock to an institutional investor at $3.42 per share for aggregate proceeds of $12 million before placement fees and other offering expenses. The investor will also receive a warrant to purchase an additional 1,403,509 8x8 common shares at an exercise price of $4.10 per share. The transaction is expected to close and fund on or about Thursday, September 30, 2004. The net proceeds of approximately $11.2 million from the offering will be used to fund the continued expansion of the Packet8 voice and video communication service, including the development of new and larger distribution channels, increased marketing efforts, and the growth of the customer service, support and sales operations, and to fund working capital and for general corporate purposes."

Internet Telephone Service Offers Added Measure of Security for Residents of Hurricane Prone Regions

2004-10-08T16:01:00.000-07:00

Internet Telephone Service Offers Added Measure of Security for Residents of Hurricane Prone Regions: "According to Dr. Alan Lefkowitz, a subscriber to the Packet8 VoIP phone service, while traditional phone systems in the hard hit region were disabled from the storm, his broadband internet phone service not only kept on working but experienced no degradation in quality or consistency through even the worst phases of Hurricane Frances.
'I initially became a subscriber of the Packet8 internet phone service because I wanted low cost unlimited calling to various U.S. cities where other family members live,' said Dr. Lefkowitz. 'Little did I realize that I was also getting a very reliable phone service that would keep on functioning even during a hurricane.'
A story in the September 14, 2004 edition of the Palm Beach Post stated, 'More than 90,000 BellSouth customers in the four-county region were still without phone service as of late Monday, and company officials say restoring complete service to the area could take as long as three weeks.'
Dr. Lefkowitz's Packet8 VoIP phone service operates over a broadband cable internet connection which suffered no ill effects from the storm. Though he did lose electric power for a few days, once electricity was restored there was no waiting for the local phone company to re-establish his service.
'This example illustrates how VoIP services like Packet8 can enhance the overall reliability of our telecommunications systems,' said Bryan Martin, Chairman and CEO of 8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT - News), provider of the Packet8 service. 'By providing additional paths for communications into and out of the home, we are building on the number of ways people can communicate during or after a disaster."

Corridor Brings Wi-Fi to the 'Burbs

2004-10-08T15:59:00.000-07:00

Corridor Brings Wi-Fi to the 'Burbs: "We recently signed an agreement to distribute voice over IP with California-based Packet8,' says Heil. 'We'll deploy voice over IP in our wireless Salem area, but also in our franchise cable systems. The wireless piece is the core of our business.' "

8x8 Signs Wholesale Agreements for Packet8 Voice and Video Over IP Offerings

2004-10-08T15:58:00.000-07:00

8x8 Signs Wholesale Agreements for Packet8 Voice and Video Over IP Offerings: "Since RBM primarily markets to the Hispanic community, the ability for us to customize the voice prompts and interfaces into the Spanish language is a significant advantage for us,' said Richard Herela, President of Las Vegas, Nevada-based LLAMA MEX, INC. 'This partnership with Packet8 will add subscribers that would not normally have selected the service due to the language barriers"

8x8 Announces Packet8 Voice Over IP Prepaid Telephone Services

2004-10-08T15:55:00.000-07:00

8x8 Announces Packet8 Voice Over IP Prepaid Telephone Services: "8x8, Inc. the Packet8 broadband voice over internet protocol (VoIP) and videophone communications service provider, today announced a prepaid service platform designed to provide independent organizations with the ability to deliver inbound and outbound VoIP broadband telephone services.

Packet8 Prepaid enables wholesalers, service providers, and resellers to offer their customers outbound prepaid telephone calling, including never-before-seen U.S. telephone numbers for use outside the United States for inbound calls. Packet8 Prepaid also includes features such as voicemail, caller ID, and complete voice account management. Packet8 Prepaid offers outbound calling rates competitive to any international incumbent telecom service provider's offering. With Packet8 Prepaid, businesses can start their own VoIP phone service delivered and managed by 8x8.
'The prepaid application of enhanced VoIP services is a natural extension of our offerings, particularly in the international calling arena,' said 8x8 President, Dr. Barry Andrews. 'Our goal is to empower service providers around the world with the tools to launch a VoIP offering in a matter of days.'"

VoIP - Voice Over Internet Protocol - Revolutionizes the Way Consumers Talk on the Phone

2004-10-08T15:52:00.001-07:00

VoIP - Voice Over Internet Protocol - Revolutionizes the Way Consumers Talk on the Phone: "8x8, inc., a leading VoIP service provider, is the first company to ship a standalone consumer videophone that operates over a high speed internet connection and delivers full motion video at a rate of 30 frames per second."

8x8 Announces Expanded Distribution for the Packet8 Virtual Office Service

2004-10-08T15:52:00.000-07:00

New Packet8 Master Distributors

8x8 Announces Expanded Distribution for the Packet8 Virtual Office Service: "The new Master Distributors cover a wide geographical area throughout the United States and include: Unwired Technology, Chicago, IL; Smart-Com, Eastern ID; Straight Shooting Computing, Santa Fe and Albuquerque, NM; Peninsula Communications, South San Francisco Bay Area, CA; Envisions Communications, Wenatchee, WA; CWS, West TX; DB Communications - Austin and San Antonio, TX; Zial Networks, Boise & Spokane, WA; and Smedia, Madison and Milwaukee, WI."

Light Reading - Networking the Telecom Industry

2003-12-07T15:30:00.000-08:00

Light Reading - Networking the Telecom Industry: "VOIP Stocks: How High? "

LightReading is probably the best source for telecommunications information. They also recently covered the run up in VoIP stocks and inlcuded 8x8 in the companies they reviewed.

Fool.com: VOIP Gold Rush [Motley Fool Take] December 5, 2003

2003-12-07T15:18:00.000-08:00

Fool.com: VOIP Gold Rush [Motley Fool Take] December 5, 2003: "VOIP Gold Rush"

Motley Fool did a very short article on VoIP, and mentions 8x8 (parent of Packet8) in the article as a speculative investment.

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � how do I build a gateway cell phone to packet8

2003-12-03T18:18:00.000-08:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � how do I build a gateway cell phone to packet8: "how do I build a gateway cell phone to packet8
Hi, I am useing Packet8 in Asia, and it workds great!!! I was just wounder how I could set up soemthing, like a local PSTEN number I culd call form my cell pyone and connect to my Packet8 line so I could make calls with the high cost of lon distance. If I lived in the US I do not think it would be worth it to do this unless I made lots of interrnational cals, cut since I am calling friends and family, and some of my family members back in the states are NOT to health it would be great to have that ability. Can somone give me some info on what I need to buy and how to set it up? Thanks "

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � FWD and Packet8 will interoperative in December...

2003-12-03T18:14:00.000-08:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � FWD and Packet8 will interoperative in December...: "FWD and Packet8 will interoperative in December...
...or so I am told.

As soon at the new software image for their DTA is released, the DTA will support more CODECs which in turn will open the door for greater compatibility between the FWD and Packet8 communities.

Hopefully sometime in December we will formally announce the interconnect between FWD and Packet8."

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet 8 rocks!

2003-12-03T18:12:00.001-08:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet 8 rocks!: "I love it more and more... The nicest thing is not to get a bill for almost $50 from BellSouth for a phone line with no long distance included. I just made a 1 hour 3-way phone call to the Philippines and my mom in the US(normally long distance). The phone call was flawless. I was suprised at how loud the person was in the Philippines. I had to turn my phone volume down.

Nice job, Packet8..... "

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet 8 rocks!

2003-12-03T18:12:00.000-08:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet 8 rocks!: "Packet 8 rocks!
I received my DTA and hooked it up yesterday. I was extremely surprised and pleased with the quality of sound while talking. When I told people I was talking to them over my internet connection they had a hard time believing me because of the clarity. The small size and attractiveness of the DTA 310 is incredible and the message indicator light is a plus too.

I really can hardly believe that it works as well as it does. This is the coolest new technology I've seen in a couple of years."

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Phone/router recommendations for Packet 8

2003-12-03T18:11:00.000-08:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Phone/router recommendations for Packet 8: "Phone/router recommendations for Packet 8
Need recommendations on both corded and cordless phones that work well with Packet 8. Must have message indicator, call waiting/caller ID, 3-way calling, etc."

Fool.com: 8x8 Catches Fire [Motley Fool Take] December 2, 2003

2003-12-03T09:48:00.000-08:00

Fool.com: 8x8 Catches Fire [Motley Fool Take] December 2, 2003: "8x8 Catches Fire"

Interesting article about Packet8's parent company, 8x8. The writer seems to be down on the prospects of the stock. Perhaps 8x8 doesn't conquer the telecomm world and the stock doesn't take off as the writer suggests, but the service is great and I expect the company to do well in the marketplace. Though I don't know how/if that will translate into the stock price.

New York Post Online Edition: business

2003-12-01T09:55:00.000-08:00

New York Post Online Edition: business

FOOLS RUSH IN (AGAIN)
By CHRISTOPHER BYRON
8x8 Inc.: Provides long-distance phone services over the Internet.

Mr. Byron thinks Packet8, and 8x8, are doomed by larger competitors. I tend to disagree. Good detractor article about Packet8.

Forbes.com - Packet8 better than Vonage

2003-11-28T08:46:00.000-08:00

Forbes.com: "Voice Broadband Breakout
Ben Berentson, 11.26.03, 9:08 AM ET

NEW YORK - Tobin Smith, the editor of ChangeWave.com, says he always looks for companies that lead the charge in new and novel technologies. Market watchers have been waiting for broadband voice to take off for some time now, and Smith thinks this might be the year it finally does.

Broadband voice allows you to place phone calls via high-speed Internet access connections. Higher speed, more reliable connections and a new regulation that allows telephone users to transfer their existing phone numbers from landlines to wireless and broadband phones figure to have a positive impact on this fledgling technology.

Telecom giant SBC Communications (nyse: SBC - news - people ) recently announced it was going to provide broadband voice beginning in 2004. Smith's voice Web telephony pick? Santa Clara, Calif.-based 8X8 (nasdaq: EGHT - news - people ) and its Packet8 voice broadband technology. Unlike its better-known competitor, Vonage, 8X8 is a publicly traded Nasdaq stock. It trades for just under $4 per share.

Smith is buying EGHT for a number of reasons. 'First, it has a better product than Vonage,' he says. 'Second, it just sold off its microelectronics business--it's now a voice broadband pure play. And the pricing is the killer app here: It's a flat fee, $19.95 a month for unlimited phone calls "

Joe Gratz's Blog - Comments on "Packet8"

2003-11-27T12:08:00.000-08:00

Joe Gratz's Blog - Comments on "Packet8": "I signed up for the Packet8 service on 7-24-03. No problems at all signing up. I received my DTA and went through all the instructions on setting it up and could not get a dial tone at all. I called up and after many unreturned phone calls I ended up speaking to 3 different people trying to get the thing working. We did everything reboot router, reboot DTA, connect the DTA directly to the broadband modem. Nothing worked. I spent two weeks trying to get in touch with the different tech support people that they told me I needed to speak to. Finally someone asked me what broadband service I used. Time Warner’s Road Runner. He stated that they were having issues with getting their equipment to work with Time Warner. I asked about returning the DTA and getting a refund. They wanted me to return it at my cost. After a couple more phone calls, they finally had UPS pick it up and a refund was issued about two weeks later. Two days later they bill my credit card again for the monthly service charge. Now I am trying to get through to someone to take care of that issue. I just now received another phone call from another tech support person calling me to help me get hooked up with that damn DTA that was already returned to the company over 3 weeks ago. It is hard to say anything good about a company that does not return phone calls, does not list problems with their service, does not stand up to their mistakes, does not do anything a good company should do except supposedly offer a cheaper service with less quality than other companies. I have already filed a complaint with the BBB and filed a chargeback with the credit card company. "

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet 8 Call Flow Power Point Presentation

2003-11-22T17:25:00.000-08:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet 8 Call Flow Power Point Presentation: " Packet 8 Call Flow Power Point Presentation
This is a Power Point presentation by Barry Andrews @ 8X8.com titled Video & Voice over IP Communications A Sip-based example.

Link is located at: �wsl.stanford.edu/projects/andrews.ppt"

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Mandatory Packet8 DTA-310 Upgrade

2003-11-22T17:24:00.000-08:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Mandatory Packet8 DTA-310 Upgrade: "Mandatory Packet8 DTA-310 Upgrade
8x8, Inc.
2445 Mission College Blvd.
Santa Clara, CA 95054-1214
U.S.A.

DATE: November 17, 2003
SUBJECT: MANDATORY PACKET8 DTA-310 UPGRADE BEFORE NOVEMBER 25, 2003

Dear Mr....

8x8 is pleased to announce the availability of several new Packet8
features that will make your VoIP communication experience even more
rewarding. Some of these new features include; call waiting, call
waiting caller ID, 3-way conferencing and hold.

This upgrade also has effects throughout our network, therefore, in
order to avoid any service interruption, you must successfully perform
the upgrade before November 25, 2003 or your Packet8 service will be
disabled until the upgrade is complete.

To learn more about the features and the mandatory upgrade, go to our
web site at �www.packet8.net/upgrade install the upgrade
application, and in a few minutes you will be able to experience the
complimentary new features included in your Packet8 service.

If you have any comments or questions, please email us at
tech-support.net or call our customer support at (888) 898-8733.

Thank you for your continued support of the Packet8 Voice and Video
Communications Service. We apologize for any inconvenience this
required upgrade may cause, but we feel that you will enjoy the newest
features added to the Packet8 service.

Sincerely,
Huw Rees
VP Sales and Marketing
8x8 Inc."

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Unlimited International Calling from P8

2003-11-22T17:22:00.000-08:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Unlimited International Calling from P8: "Unlimited International Calling from P8
8x8 offers an array of Packet8 broadband telephone service plans to meet even the most stringent telephone users needs. unlimited calling plans to US, Canada, Europe, Asia and more.

Freedom Unlimited
Plus Asia Unlimited Unlimited 1 $49.90
Freedom Unlimited
Plus Europe Unlimited Unlimited 2 $49.90
Freedom Unlimited
Plus EuroAsia Unlimited Unlimited 3 $79.90

1Plus Asia subscribers can make unlimited calls to non-mobile numbers in Australia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Taiwan, in addition all phones in Singapore and Hong Kong.

2Plus Europe subscribers can make unlimited calls to non-mobile numbers in Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Moscow and St. Petersburg in Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the UK.

3Plus EuroAsia subscribers can make unlimited calls to non-mobile numbers in Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Moscow and St. Petersburg in Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK, Australia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Taiwan, in addition all phones in Singapore and Hong Kong."

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � T38 faxing on P8

2003-11-22T17:21:00.000-08:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � T38 faxing on P8: "T38 faxing on P8
I know we have had threads on here before about the fact that P8 will be releasing T38 faxing, but does anyone have any idea when it will be? Any inside info?"

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Any P8 Canadian Users on Rogers??

2003-11-22T17:20:00.001-08:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Any P8 Canadian Users on Rogers??: "Any P8 Canadian Users on Rogers??
I just ordered P8 in the Toronto area and am on Rogers Hi-Speed. I'm curious if their is anyone out their from this area using the P8 service and what they think of it, or can comment in general, voice quality, reliability, etc.?
Thanks"

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Question about P8 "Rate Centers"

2003-11-22T17:20:00.000-08:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Question about P8 "Rate Centers": "Question about P8 'Rate Centers'
Hi All,
I'm alittle confused about what the 'rate center' code thats returned when you check to see if the service is available for Packet8 service in my area. It returns 'Rate Center (City)
NWYRCYZN01' I did the search for my area which is New York. Does anyone know what that code means, or where i can decipher what it stands for?"

CommsDesign - 8x8 To Raise Additional $2.2 Million

2003-11-22T17:19:00.000-08:00

CommsDesign - 8x8 To Raise Additional $2.2 Million: "8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT), the broadband voice and video communications service provider, announced today that it expects to raise an additional $2.2 million of financing from certain institutional investors that participated in the private placement that closed on November 13, 2003. The investors would purchase an additional 780,000 shares of 8x8's common stock at a purchase price of $2.83 per share, and also receive warrants to purchase approximately 780,000 8x8 common shares at an exercise price of $3.61 per share. The transaction is expected to close and be funded on November 18, 2003. The common stock and warrants will be issued in a private placement without registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements. The Company has agreed to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a registration statement to register the resale of the common stock and the shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the warrants."

VoIP Company 8x8 Delivers Unlimited Worldwide Calling with Purchase of Terminal Adapter

2003-11-13T07:15:00.000-08:00

VoIP Company 8x8 Delivers Unlimited Worldwide Calling with Purchase of Terminal Adapter: "VoIP Company 8x8 Delivers Unlimited Worldwide Calling with Purchase of Terminal Adapter
Posted on: 11/07/2003

Broadband voice and video service provider 8x8 Inc. has launched a new service plan that gives customers unlimited worldwide calling to other Packet8 users and subscribers for a one-time equipment purchase.

The Packet8 Freedom plan requires that users purchase a Desktop Terminal Adapter model 310 (DTA-310) for a one-time equipment fee of $75 from the Packet8 website at http://www.packet8.net. Upon registering the DTA-310 users will be given a unique Packet8 telephone number so they can make and receive calls from any Packet8 subscriber or partner phone number. All Packet8 Freedom Plans include voice mail, caller ID, call waiting, call forwarding, conference calling and unlimited talk time.

"Our goal is to make this Internet calling program as easy, inexpensive and risk-free as possible for new customers to try the Packet8 service," says Bryan R. Martin, CEO of 8x8. "We are confident that Packet8 Freedom Plan subscribers will want to upgrade to a full Packet8 unlimited calling plan with a regular telephone number once they experience the quality and benefits of using the Packet8 network.""

Silicon Valley Biz Ink :: The voice of the valley economy

2003-11-13T07:14:00.000-08:00

Silicon Valley Biz Ink :: The voice of the valley economy: "SANTA CLARA, Calif., Nov. 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT), the broadband voice and video communications service
provider, announced today that it has entered into definitive agreements with
certain institutional investors for the private placement of approximately
1,839,000 shares of its common stock at a purchase price of $2.83 per share,
resulting in gross proceeds of approximately $5.2 million. The investors will
also receive warrants to purchase approximately 1,839,000 8x8 common shares at
an exercise price of $3.40 per share. The transaction is expected to close and
be funded on November 13, 2003.
The proceeds of the financing are expected to be used for general
corporate purposes, including funding the expansion of the Company's Packet8
voice and video over Internet protocol (VoIP) communications service.
Bryan R. Martin, 8x8's Chief Executive Officer, stated, "This financing
significantly strengthens 8x8's balance sheet and provides us with additional
capital to further accelerate the growth of the Packet8 voice and video
communications service."
The common stock and warrants were issued in a private placement without
registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be
offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable
exemption from registration requirements. The Company has agreed to file with
the Securities and Exchange Commission a registration statement to register
the resale of the common stock and the shares of common stock issuable upon
exercise of the warrants.

8x8 Adds Advanced Call Features to Its Packet8 Voice Over IP Calling Service

2003-11-13T07:13:00.000-08:00

8x8 Adds Advanced Call Features to Its Packet8 Voice Over IP Calling Service: "8x8 Adds Advanced Call Features to Its Packet8 Voice Over IP Calling Service

8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT), the broadband voice and video communications service provider, today announced the addition of advanced calling features to its Packet8 voice and video communications service. The new features included in all Packet8 calling plans are call waiting, call waiting caller ID, hold, call alternate and 3-way conferencing.

The new user features, traditionally offered as premium services by legacy telephone service providers, are immediately available to existing Packet8 subscribers and included at no charge with every new Packet8 subscription. The Company also announced that it has added several new support and diagnostic features to its Desktop Terminal Adapter model 310 (DTA-310), the industry's most advanced voice over IP terminal adapter.

The following Packet8 features provide residential Packet8 subscribers the ability to communicate over the phone with more than one person at a time more efficiently.
-- 3 Way Conferencing provides users the ability to connect up to three
parties on the same call and also drop the last party to enter the conference;
-- Call Waiting provides users the ability to answer more than one call
at a time or make a call while already on the phone;
-- Call Waiting Caller ID provides users the ability to see the caller
ID number of additional calls presented when already on the phone;
-- Hold enables users the ability to put calls on mute or hold to
retrieve another call or make another call from a single telephone
with a single line; and
-- Line Alternate enables users to switch between calls or make a call
when already on the phone.

With these new user features included in its base offering, Packet8 continues to bridge the gap with traditional telephone service providers, while offering all inclusive broadband communication services at a single, bundled price. "Our communication service with unlimited calling plans, no contracts or early termination fees, and risk free trial periods coupled with our newest release of multiple call handling and conferencing features will continue to demonstrate the value of our communications offering compared to traditional telephone networks," said Bryan R. Martin, Chief Executive Officer of 8x8.

The new diagnostic features will also improve the ease with which a subscriber can install Packet8. New support and diagnostic features include voice prompt support, missing IP address indicator, network problem indicator and improved facility for downloading new firmware to the Packet8 DTA, including an "upgrade-by-phone" feature which will upgrade Packet8 endpoints with the latest features by simply making a telephone call.

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Got Softphone Working with Packet8

2003-10-31T04:56:00.000-08:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Got Softphone Working with Packet8: "Got Softphone Working with Packet8
Based on some info found on the Asterisk mailing list, I've got Packet8 working great with a softphone on my computer. I've tried several of them, and the only one I've found with a free trial that can do g.723 is the eStara phone, available from »www.estara.com. Several others work, but don't include g.723, so you can call out but can't receive calls (which fits with what people have been saying about changing the codec setting in the DTA310 and no longer being able to receive calls). But, if all you need is to make calls, you can use the free X-lite softphone from »www.xten.com.

On to the settings!

These are for the eStara phone, but they are generalizable to any SIP softphone.

Friendly name: {Anything you'd like.}
SIP domain: packet8.net
SIP proxy: packet8.net
Leave everything else at the default.

When you login, it will ask for a username and password.
Username: {Your Packet8 phone number, including leading '1'}
Password: {The 10-digit PIN code they emailed you that you entered during activation.}

And it's as simple as that. I can make calls -- in fact, multiple calls at once. And I can receive calls; both my DTA310 and my computer ring (though my computer sometimes doesn't ring; this will have something to do with a re-registration interval that I'll need to tweak at some point.)

I don't know how this will work with NAT traversal; my computer has a 'real' IP address. But it works great for me. I'm off to RadioShack to grab a headset this afternoon ."

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » P8 over dialup, yup it works!

2003-10-28T05:34:00.000-08:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » P8 over dialup, yup it works!: "P8 over dialup, yup it works!
My wife unfortunately is in the hospital and of course you can't call anywhere but right around the hospital. Being the techno geek that I am, I brought her laptop, a switch and the p8 box (switch was to allow sharing the net connect to my lappy)

At first I was sure that it wasn't going to work cuz the best connection was 21k I enabled ICS and lifted the receiver and found I had dialtone! I made a quick call to my folks out of state and they thought we were at home! The sound quality was very good imho... (with that narrow bandwidth, don't expect to do anything other than call tho)

Very impressive... Now if they could get the dta to self heal like the ata does (i.e. when IP changes etc) then It would be really really cool!"

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet8 Faxing

2003-10-26T16:29:00.000-08:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet8 Faxing: "Packet8 Faxing
I know that there are random threads that have info about Packet8 faxing, but I've found none that focus directly on the subject...

Sooo... since I've had SOME luck with faxing on P8, Im going to start this thread.

I've gotten ONE fax through on Packet8 using the G711U codec with the silence suppression OFF. I really wnated to make it work so I tested ALL the settings and this was the only one that went through. I don't know what silence suppression does, but it seemed to work, but only ONCE.

I was also using Symantec Winfax to fax from my computer to my Efax account. Not sure if the combination of all these things was what made it work.. but I just thought I'd share.

Has anyone else had luck with faxing on Packet8?
What was YOUR recipe?"

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » packet8 ~ Audio/CODEC Configuration QUESTIO

2003-10-26T16:28:00.000-08:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » packet8 ~ Audio/CODEC Configuration QUESTIO: "I received my DTA310 and started playing with the CODEC options. From what I have read it seems the best options for someone with a lot of bandwidth is to have G711U, G711A, and G723 selected and Silence Suppression off. I was wondering, by having all these selected how does the DTA310 decide which one to use on a per call bases? "

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Vonage SoftPhone Available

2003-10-20T06:22:00.000-07:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Vonage SoftPhone Available: "Hmm... for $20 a month I get broadband phone AND a softphone AND all of their features. Have fun with your overpriced Vonage 'Texas phone number'. Vonage has shown their customers nothing in the past six months that even compares to VoicePulse and P8.

I used to criticize P8 but at the very least they are consistent. I used to criticize VP but at the very least they listen to their customers and give the features we ask for. I used to criticize Vonage and... hmm, what do we get? An expensive softphone, a questionable regulatory fee, more expensive business lines, spam to people who signed up for coupons, search engines filled with referral garbage and in the past 6 months most of their upper management has left a company that had the potential to 'revolutionize telecommunications'.

But you're right, obviously Vonage is the better choice."

Many believe that Internet-based phone service will revolutionize the telecom industry

2003-10-20T06:18:00.000-07:00

Many believe that Internet-based phone service will revolutionize the telecom industry

By Jennifer Davies
UNION-TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER

October 19, 2003

The phone system that has defined communications over the last century could become obsolete in less than two decades.

That's if telecommuni- cations pioneers like Vonage have their way.

The New Jersey company uses the Internet to provide phone service at a fraction of the cost of the traditional system of copper wires and circuit switches.

In less than two years, Vonage has signed up some 60,000 customers and estimates it will have 100,000 by the end of the year.

It's no wonder the company has made such inroads. For $35 a month, customers get unlimited local and long distance calling plus features such as voice mail, caller ID, call forwarding and call waiting. Similar packages from SBC Communications or MCI typically go for about $50.

"Fifteen years from now, it is not inconceivable that the traditional phone network will no longer exist," said John Rego, Vonage's chief financial officer.

The result could be a revolution in the telecommunications market, breaking the near stranglehold that traditional phone companies, such as SBC or Verizon Communications, have on the local calling market.

Until now, competition in the local phone business has been difficult because it relies on a complex network, which would be expensive to build from scratch.

Now companies, large and small, will be able to bypass that system by installing the new technology, called voice over Internet protocol, or VoIP for short, for a fraction of the cost that it would take to rent space on the old phone network or build a new network.

The increased competition, coupled with lower technology costs, could result in much cheaper phone bills for consumers.

No one questions that VoIP is ushering in a new era in telecommunications but this is not the first time VoIP has been heralded.

In the late '90s, a lot of hype surrounded VoIP but it was cumbersome to use and riddled with glitches. Jeffrey Kagan, an independent telecommunications analyst, said the early version of VoIP mostly appealed to techie types.

"It was two people staring at their computer screens with headphones on giggling because they were beating the system by not having to pay for phone calls," he said.

The service that is now being offered has little in common with the earlier incarnations of VoIP. The proliferation of broadband connections and software improvements have made VoIP a viable alternative to traditional, circuit-switched networks. VoIP, which translates phone conversations into packets of data, now works with regular phones and the scratchy voice quality has mostly been eradicated.

"The barbarians are at the gate. VoIP is knocking at the door," Kagan said. "It is just starting to be embraced by the mainstream world."

VoIP is still not for everyone. To get the service, customers need a high-speed Internet connection like DSL or a cable modem. Subscribers then plug a so-called gateway box into a computer router and a phone into the gateway box.

Eric Warner, a Rancho Bernardo resident who uses Packet 8, a VoIP service offered by 8X8, a Silicon Valley company, said it is not as confusing to install as it may sound. In fact, Matthews liked it so much that he signed up his mother who lives in West Virginia for the service, too.

"My mother was able to do it and she is about as anti-technical as they come," Warner said. "It is one of the most simple installations I've seen."

Because of its simplicity and low cost, Rego said traditional phone companies should be worried about their new streamlined competitors. Vonage has been able to quickly sign up customers with only about $15 million in funding and 150 employees.

It is not just small companies like Vonage and 8X8 that are looking to harness this new technology. Heavy hitters like AT&T Corp., Time Warner and Cox Communications see the opportunity and cost savings the technology provides and are offering or planning to roll out VoIP in the near future.

Despite the competition, SBC is supportive of the technology and plans to start incorporating it alongside its current phone network, said Dorothy Attwood, the company's senior vice president for regulatory affairs. The company already uses VoIP for much of its long-distance phone service.

Kagan said telecom giants are backing the technology because it makes economic sense.

"VoIP is not really a threat to the traditional phone companies but to the technology that they have used," he said.

Cox, for instance, already offers phone service, using traditional technology, in many of its cable television markets such as San Diego and Orange counties. But in other markets, the company is closely looking at using VoIP because it is easier and cheaper to install.

Time Warner, which also provides cable service in San Diego County, rejected the idea of providing phone service with traditional technology, waiting instead until VoIP technology improved enough to be offered on a commercial basis.

Time Warner already offers the service in Portland, Maine, and plans to roll it out in Rochester, N.Y., and two markets in North Carolina. It has not yet announced its plans for 2004 or when the service will be available in San Diego.

Keith Cocozza, a national spokesman for Time Warner, said its VoIP service has done well in Portland, besting the growth the company saw when it introduced its Road Runner high-speed Internet service. When it introduced Road Runner, it had 3 percent penetration after six months. With its VoIP service, it has 3 percent penetration in just three months.

"Response actually has been very good, surprisingly so," Cocozza said.

But with success comes scrutiny. So far VoIP companies have been able to offer phone service almost free of regulation. Now, however, state utility commissions are beginning to take a hard look at the technology – and the companies that use it.

"Voice over IP is finally here, but the regulatory implications of that are less clear," said Mark Kersey, an industry analyst for Current Analysis, a market research firm with offices in La Jolla.

Wisconsin and Michigan were among the first to take a hard-line stance on the issue, arguing it was within their utility commissions' jurisdiction to oversee the VoIP companies as they are essentially offering phone service. Florida, on the other hand, has passed legislation saying it will not regulate VoIP services

The regulatory question is getting ever more murky. Just last week, a federal judge issued a decision preventing Minnesota's utility commission from regulating the technology.

That decision hasn't stopped California, however. Last month, the state's Public Utilities Commission sent letters to several VoIP companies, telling them that had until Oct. 22 to apply for the right to offer phone service in the state. The PUC estimates there are some 10,000 VoIP customers in California.

Vonage and 8X8 are taking a wait-and-see approach and haven't decided how, or if, they will respond to the letter.

Asking VoIP companies to comply with traditional phone regulations is tricky. The biggest issue centers on 911 service. While traditional phone networks work with 911 service and can pinpoint the address of the call, VoIP services like Vonage's cannot.

The 911 limitations of VoIP also are part of the technology's strength and prove how difficult it may be to regulate. The VoIP gateways that come with Vonage and Packet8 are portable, so users can plug them in anywhere there is a broadband connection. It also means that someone in San Diego can have a number that uses a New York City area code. Warner said his mother chose a San Antonio prefix so that her daughter who lived there could call her for free.

"The Internet is vast and nobody knows where you are," Rego said. "We are not bound by geography."

Because of the new technology's promise and pitfalls, many in the industry say the rush to regulate is seen as a mistake. SBC says excessive regulation could kill the budding technology.

"There is no urgent need to impose all sorts of regulation as the technology emerges," said SBC's Attwood.

As more states take different regulatory stances toward the technology, both telecommunications giants and VoIP startups hope the federal government will step in to provide some regulatory clarity. Michael Powell, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, indicated earlier this month that the time may be right to study the issue of VoIP and how it will change the telecommunications landscape.

"We're probably going to hold a hearing this fall and we are probably going to initiate a notice of inquiry to begin examining voice-over-IP issues and proper classification," Powell said.

Kagan agreed that the issue had to be studied. He said the technology is evolving too fast and it is too soon to slap regulation and taxes on the nascent technology.

"It's in motion. It's a work in progress," he said. "Trying to tax it and trying to regulate it is a lot like trying to fix a lawn mower while it is moving. You could get your hand cut off."

Jennifer Davies: (619) 293-1371; jennifer.davies@uniontrib.com

2003-10-20T06:17:00.001-07:00

INTERNET PHONE USE IS PICKING UP SPEED

By BEN SILVERMAN
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 19, 2003 -- When Cameron Thomas moves to Oklahoma City next month, he'll take his Houston phone number with him - but he'll leave his phone behind.
Thomas is one of the estimated one million Americans now using their computers' Internet connections to replace or supplement traditional telephone service.

Known to techies as "voice over Internet protocol" (VoIP), Internet telephony doesn't tie a user to an area code, and its growth rates are rattling the nation's phone company establishment.

"When you have that sort of flexibility and add in the cost savings, I think people will be ready to jump on [VoIP]," said Thomas, a technician who services engineering copiers and plotters.

Thomas uses Vonage, which, along with Packet8 and VoicePulse, is one of the handful of consumer VoIP services currently available.

The territory won't be left to the small fry for long. AT&T is prepping its own VoIP offering, while cable companies, including local giant Cablevision, are testing services, as well.

Thomas has already gotten rid of his landline, something Mark Dello Russo said he's considering as well.

"I have a landline, and I backed it down to a minimum local calling plan. The only reason I've kept it is because I like the number, but I haven't touched it in months," said Dello Russo, a Veritas Software network administrator from Somerset, N.J.

Dello Russo said he tried Vonage, as well as VoicePulse, deciding on the later because he likes its options better.

And he's paying $14.99 per month for local calling and 200 minutes of long distance is a far cry from the $75 to $80 he was paying Verizon. "For $15 a month, I have zero complaints."

Free World Dialup offers free calling around the world, but users must make some investment in equipment and they can speak only with other FWD users.

Still, the service has attracted more than 57,000 users worldwide.

"My call cost to England is now zero," said Stuart Friedman, a Detroit-area lawyer who talks to his best friend and former legal partner in the U.K.

"Even as cheap as calling England is - I had it down to four cents per minute using calling cards - we were still racking up $50 per month in bills."

"I'm still using a landline for all my local calls," Friedman said. "As good as VoIP sounds, fiber is still a little better."

NET PHONES: A GUIDE TO DIGITAL DIALING

2003-10-20T06:17:00.000-07:00

NET PHONES: A GUIDE TO DIGITAL DIALING
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 19, 2003 -- Here's a wrap up of what you'll need and what it will cost to get started with Internet phone service.
What you need:

Computer.

High-speed Internet connection.

Analog phone adapter (normally supplied by service provider)

Router (for DSL users - sold by service providers).

Any telephone.

Internet telephone providers:

Free World Dialup: Free, but you can only call other FWD users.

iConnectHere: 400 minutes in North America, $5.95 per month; 1000 minutes in North America, $10.95 per month.

Packet8: unlimited local and long distance, $19.95 per month.

VoicePulse: local unlimited plus 200 minutes long distance, $14.99 per month; local unlimited plus 600 minutes long distance, $25.99; unlimited local and long distance, $34.99.

Vonage: local unlimited plus 500 minutes long distance, $24.99 per month; local unlimited plus unlimited long distance, $34.99 per month.

* What is VoIP?

Traditional telephone calls are routed through normal phone lines. VoIP calls go over fiber-optic data lines.

* How much does the equipment cost?

The ATA is usually free from service providers, and a router is $100 or less. The only other cost is a high-speed Internet connection.

* Is it difficult to set up VoIP equipment?

It's usually very simple and just involves following directions and plugging in a few things.

* Are there a lot of hidden fees attached to VoIP?

Presently, VoIP is virtually unregulated, so there are no access fees or surcharges. The FCC may eventually regulate VoIP, and that may add charges.

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Packet8 Codecs and voice quality

2003-10-15T05:41:00.000-07:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Packet8 Codecs and voice quality: "Packet8 Codecs and voice quality
Packet8 has 5 settings for voice codecs, G.723 comes as default but you can change it in the DTA web configuration page I changed mine to G.729 with 10ms Packetization and Silence Suppression on and the result was increased voice quality, I have DSL with Verizon and the G.729 is just perfect, I know that if I have to use dialup I should change it back to G.723."

Internet Telephony Publisher's Outlook

2003-10-10T15:28:00.000-07:00

Internet Telephony Publisher's Outlook: "8x8
Remember 8x8? This company was a major player in video conferencing and holds a lobby full of patents in telephony and video to back that up. An 8x8 subsidiary named Netergy Microelectronics recently launched the T2 Audacity chip, which they say allows you to build a Cisco ATA-186 killer. Ok, they really didn’t put it that strongly, but with a name like T2 you don’t expect it to nicely ask the industry leading Cisco personal IP telephony gateway to step aside.
With this chip in their arsenal 8x8 has launched a service that competes head-on with Vonage. Instead of supporting Cisco devices they use their own DTA-310 terminal adapter, which -- you guessed it -- houses a T2 Audacity chip. The new service is called Packet8 and the company tells me the service is high quality and plug and play. I did test the service but in the company’s conference room. I hope to test the service in more depth soon.

The service is not as full-featured as Vonage but the price is much lower at $19.95 for unlimited calls in the U.S. and Canada. They offer a 30-day money-back guarantee as well. They will soon offer local number portability like Vonage does in many locations. One big differentiator is the fact that you can use their broadband standalone DV325 SIP videophones with their service at $599 each. The videophone is of pretty good quality and definitely sets this company’s offerings apart from the Internet telephony service provider crowd. One final note for comparison is the fact that the company tells me that they need much less bandwidth than Vonage to work. Again, I am looking forward to testing the service myself but can’t vouch for this. 8x8 has always been a very technical company and is definitely a leader in codec design… I have a very easy time believing this claim. "

Welcome to the Mercury News on Bayarea.com

2003-10-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Mercury News on Bayarea.com: "``The technology we're offering is different,'' said Huw Reese, vice president of sales and marketing for Santa Clara-based 8x8, whose service is called Packet8. ``It is a data service in that we're using the Internet to carry calls. It cannot be regulated in the same way.''"

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Packet 8 to get call waiting and 3 way calling!!!!

2003-10-09T05:56:00.000-07:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Packet 8 to get call waiting and 3 way calling!!!!: "Packet 8 to get call waiting and 3 way calling!!!!
I just called packet 8 and they todl me in Nov they should be getting call waiting and 3 way calling. this will be great!!! and I did nto have to wait 40 min on hold as you do when you call Vonage. They also told me they should be fixing the trouble with the voice mail light indcatoer not working properly as well. Packet 8 rules.....they are cheaper and provde much better service then vonage, paying more does NOt allways mean you get more!!!!!"

Court's call: Hands off VoIP | CNET News.com

2003-10-08T09:41:00.000-07:00

Court's call: Hands off VoIP | CNET News.com: "Internet phone providers have won the first round in a clash with state regulators, providing needed momentum for the upstart industry. "

Techweb > News > California to VoIP Operators: You’re Regulated > California to VoIP Operators: You're Regulated > October 2, 2003

2003-10-02T12:37:00.000-07:00

Techweb > News > California to VoIP Operators: You’re Regulated > California to VoIP Operators: You're Regulated > October 2, 2003: "California to VoIP Operators: You're Regulated
October 2, 2003 (11:34 a.m. EST)
TechWeb News

The party's over for voice-over IP (VoIP) providers. The California Public Utilities Commission has decided to treat Internet Protocol providers like all other telephone providers. Plainly put, VoIP providers will henceforth be regulated in the state.
While a few smaller states--Wisconsin and Minnesota, specifically-have previously announced that VoIP firms would be regulated, California, because of its size, is likely to influence other states, and possibly even federal regulators.
California's telecommunications division said this week that major VoIP providers, including Vonage, VoicePulse, SBC Communications, Net2Phone and Packet8, have been told to apply for telephone-operator licenses. The action is a disappointment for the VoIP companies, which had argued that they should remain unregulated because their traffic moves over the Internet.
The VoIP market has been a brawling affair, and its future course is still unclear, although no one doubts that it will continue to grow rapidly. Market research estimates are all over the place, but the consensus is that the Internet-phone market--now placed at just under $2 billion a year--will double in two or three years.
Equipment suppliers, in fact, are rushing handsets to market. For instance, Cisco Systems Inc. introduced a $600 VoIP handset this summer, and Toshiba Corp. has signaled that it will soon begin marketing a $800 combination PDA-VoIP phone that will also download web pages. More cautious are others like Comcast, which this week said it will begin testing VoIP next year at the earliest. "

California to regulate VoIP providers | CNET News.com

2003-10-01T05:31:00.000-07:00

California to regulate VoIP providers | CNET News.com: "California regulators have begun forcing Internet telephone service providers to apply for telephone operator licenses, a state official said Tuesday.
The Golden State is the largest state to decide that voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) providers are subject to the same rules and regulations as all other telephone service providers. In recent weeks, WisconsinandMinnesota decided the same thing."

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Equipment on P8's "Freedom Plus?"

2003-09-30T13:54:00.000-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Equipment on P8's "Freedom Plus?": "Equipment on P8's 'Freedom Plus?'
I'm slowly dipping my toes into VoIP, and I signed up for P8's Freedom Plus plan, basically because it was the cheapest. Do they still send a Cisco ATA with it? I ask because the carrier says 'digital download,' so I'm wondering if I have to bring my own.

If they don't send an ATA on the cheep-o one, can I e-mail customer service, ask to change to the $20 plan and then have them send a box over?"

Big Shoe Drops: California Jumps on Regulation Bandwagon :: Voxilla.com :: A user's guide to the communications revolution

2003-09-30T13:53:00.000-07:00

Big Shoe Drops: California Jumps on Regulation Bandwagon :: Voxilla.com :: A user's guide to the communications revolution: "California's Public Utilities Commission has jumped on the bandwagon to regulate Voice over IP companies.
VoicePulse CEO Ravi Sakaria has received a letter from John Leutza, Director of the California PUC's Telecommunications Division, demanding that the company 'file an application with the Commission for authority to conduct business as a telecommunications utility no later than October 22, 2003.'
According to Richard Fish, a Senior Utilities Engineer with the California PUC, five companies have been sent the letter. Besides VoicePulse, the others are Net2Phone, Packet8, SBC Communications and Vonage.
California's action comes on the heel of similar activity against VoIP providers in a number of other states, most recently Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Leutza's letter asserts the CPUC is taking action based 'on our monitoring of the telecommunications market and actions being taken by other state regulatory commissions.'
The letter cites four different sections of the California Public Utilities Code in making its demand:
'Section 234 of the California Public Utilities Code defines a telephone corporation as every corporation or person who owns, controls, or manages a telephone line for profit. Section 233 defines a telephone line as any asset used to facilitate telephone communication. Section 216 states that any telephone corporation that performs compensated service to any portion of the California public is a public utility. Section 2001 requires that a telephone corporation must first be certificated by the Commission to place a telephone line into service.'
According to Sakaria, this is the first letter his company has"

Inc.com | Internet Phone Service is Here

2003-09-30T13:51:00.000-07:00

Inc.com | Internet Phone Service is Here: "The strongest competitor for Vonage on a feature-for-feature basis is Packet8 from 8X8, a California company that makes most of its money in the videoconferencing business. Packet8 does pretty much what Vonage does, but Packet8 just dropped its price for unlimited domestic calling to $19.95 per month. Can you say 'price war'?
Of course, this is an emerging nightmare for local and long-distance phone companies. Some of them are responding with their own unlimited calling plans, but they aren't quite so full-featured as Vonage's or Packet8's. You can't take your phone with you, for example."

Byte and Switch - The Global Site For Storage Networking

2003-09-30T13:50:00.000-07:00

Byte and Switch - The Global Site For Storage Networking: "'The SIP Revolution' also identifies the service providers testing the waters and building businesses based on SIP, in addition to the hardware and software vendors that are targeting service providers and enterprises. Each company is given a ranking based on its potential to make a success of its SIP strategy and keep up the pace as the market develops.
The public companies scrutinized include:
8x8 Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT....."

Comcast cautious about VoIP upgrade | CNET News.com

2003-09-30T13:48:00.000-07:00

Comcast cautious about VoIP upgrade | CNET News.com: "While still just a trickle, early defectors to VoIP represent the vanguard in a trend that some analysts believe could soon roil the communications industry. Independent VoIP providers such as Vonage and 8x8 are beginning to steal consumers from traditional phone operators with flat-rate VoIP plans that cost between $20 and $40 a month for local and long-distance calls."

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Packet8 advertising on yahoo search

2003-09-29T13:57:00.000-07:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Packet8 advertising on yahoo search: "Packet8 advertising on yahoo search
I just saw a Packet8 ad on the top of my yahoo search page, anyone else see this?"

Vonage, 8x8 at Center of VoIP Regulatory Debate

2003-09-29T05:19:00.000-07:00

Vonage, 8x8 at Center of VoIP Regulatory Debate: "Vonage, 8x8 at Center of VoIP Regulatory Debate
By Josh Long
Posted on: 09/26/2003

Vonage Holdings Corp. and 8x8 Inc. are the subjects of a national debate on whether and how to regulate phone companies routing traffic over the Internet.
Vonage on Monday asked the FCC to declare that the company is not technically providing telephone service and therefore should be exempt from regulations the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission wants to impose. Vonage also has filed an appeal in a Minnesota district court, challenging a ruling that Vonage is a telephone company and must obtain a certificate to operate, file tariffs and comply with other requirements applying to in-state phone companies. "

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � What does everyone think of P8 and SipPhone news?

2003-09-29T05:17:00.000-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � What does everyone think of P8 and SipPhone news?: "What does everyone think of P8 and SipPhone news?
What do you guys think of the partnership?

What about P8 and FWD being interop'd?"

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Packet 8

2003-09-29T05:16:00.000-07:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Packet 8: "I have Packet8 now for 3 weeks, it was never down not even a minute, the quality in general is less than regular phone company but better than cell phone, it works great for USA and Canada calls, less quality for international calls, if you have DSL you will not be able to cancel your regular phone company but you can keep it min. if you have cable internet you will be able to cancel your regular phone company, they are cheaper because they try to gain ground in this hot VOIP market, don't listen to anyone , try it for yourself for a month, if you don't like cancel and get your money back, to start you need to pay the 1st month $19.95 + $30 startup fee, if you have recommendation code you can save $20, make sure you get a code to save on your startup fees."

Slashdot | States Fight Internet Tax Ban, Cite VoIP Concern

2003-09-25T07:28:00.000-07:00

Slashdot | States Fight Internet Tax Ban, Cite VoIP Concern: "PetiePooo writes 'From an article at PCWorld: The Multistate Tax Commission is fighting a bill which makes the moratorium on internet taxes permanent. Their complaint is that it could be interpreted to include VoIP telephony such as Packet8 and Vonage, and they would lose that lucrative tax base as people switch from incumbent providers. The House has already approved the bill. When will the politicians figure out that VoIP is a going to end up as a product, not a service? Voice will be just another form of data....' "

8X8 and SIPphone Announce Interoperability and Marketing Agreement

2003-09-23T05:57:00.000-07:00

This is awesome for Packet8 and SIPphone users. Both companies seem to be really on the ball as far as what their users want.

8X8 and SIPphone Announce Interoperability and Marketing Agreement: "8X8 and SIPphone Announce Interoperability and Marketing Agreement
Monday September 22, 8:15 am ET
VON CONFERENCE, BOSTON, Sept. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- 8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT - News) and SIPphone, Inc. today announced that an agreement has been reached to allow Packet8 users to call SIPphone users (and vice versa) over the internet without the need to terminate through the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network).
ADVERTISEMENT

As part of the agreement, Packet8 and SIPphone have agreed to grant access to the telephone numbers of their customers (without compromising the privacy of such information) and allow direct dialing to each others customers without the use of special codes or prefixes. From a practical perspective, this results in a benefit to the consumers of both services, as they will be able to call each other anywhere in the world, free of any additional charge. Also included in the agreement is a cooperative marketing arrangement, whereby SIPphone users who are interested in PSTN origination or termination services (i.e. the ability to call, or be called, by any regular plain old telephone) will be encouraged to sign up with the Packet8 service.
'We are very excited to announce this cooperation with SIPphone,' said Bryan Martin, Chief Executive Officer of 8x8. 'Michael Robertson's vision of a fundamental change in telephone communications based around the SIP protocol is directly in line with our own,' he continued. 'We look forward to quickly implementing this interoperability between our two services and we are confident this will be seen as a significant benefit to both companies' customers.'
'We're deploying thousands of SIPphones around the world and private peering with Packet8 will allow our users"

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Bridge Packet8 with another VOIP

2003-09-22T05:56:00.001-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Bridge Packet8 with another VOIP: "Bridge Packet8 with another VOIP
Hi
I've got a Packet8 Connection and I've also used Creative Labs discontinued VOIP Product (PC 2 PC - VOIP Blaster). From what I've read about the DTA-310 its port is also FXS as is the Creative VOIP. So I was wondering if there is any simple way to bridge the 2 connections. If I simply connect the 2

VOIPBlaster -> VoipBlaster -> Packet8 -> PSTN (via Packet8)

How would I get the Packet8 to pick up on a ring? And dial out etc. "

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � New Reg fee confirmed

2003-09-22T05:56:00.000-07:00

Seems like Vonage users are contesting the regulatory charge Vonage is levying.

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � New Reg fee confirmed: "I have disputed the charge and asked for Arbitration via Vonage's TOS. Some of the charges aka TAXES that ILECS and CLECS charge you are valid but there are MANY that you can dispute and not have to pay them. There are people that make BIG money analyzing your phone bill and get paid from fees they recover for you. Just because they say its a tax doesn't mean its a tax you have to pay. Phone companies have been notorious on passing on fees to the consumer when actually these are fees that the phone company must pay themselves as part of doing business. I would recommend everyone disputing the charges and asking for Arbitration and ask Vonage to provide you the Federal or State statue that requires you to pay this new fee. Every tax has a WRITTEN statue that explains why this fee exists. If they cannot provide the documentation to you then its a non existing statue that you do not need to pay. I have done this many a time and won most of the time so I am speaking from experience. God you cant imagine the type of fees they try to tack onto a T-1 line that just don't exist."

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » New Reg fee confirmed

2003-09-22T05:55:00.000-07:00

more Vonage users complaining about the needless regulatory fee they are being charged

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » New Reg fee confirmed: "I called and asked them about the 'Free' fax line on my business account. It is, as you would expect, no longer free -- even though their website still advertises it as such.

There is no way, from the dashboard, to disable the FAX line. You have to call them up to do it.

Side note -- I think this recovery fee is complete BS. Simply put -- since Vonage is the 'end user' of each of the lines they get from their ILECs/CLECs they have been paying these fees all along. It could be said we have been paying them all along as part of our total monthly fee. (Exceptions to state sales tax in NJ -- don't know about the exise tax though).

I resent the fact that Vonage believes that we as a whole are naive enough to believe that we are getting a discount (or not in the case of business customers) but are now forced to pay the taxes that Vonage has been paying all along.

I would expect this from my politician, not Vonage."

ebroadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Vonage lowers rates

2003-09-20T10:55:00.000-07:00

Something doesn't seem to add up with Vonage's new regulatory fee

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Vonage lowers rates: "If I am not mistaken by law if Vonage collects any fees or taxes for USF for state or federal reasons don't they have to itemize and detail all those fees on the bill? Meaning they would have to state which fee/tax they are collecting and the exact amount charged for each. Check your POTS and Cell phone bills, you will see they are itemized and detailed. So how can Vonage just create a fee for 'Regulatory Recovery' if they are truly paying USF right now? I am suspect as to whether this fee they are charging is really going to pay for USF and other fees or taxes right now. Jester may be right, this fee may be covering Vonage's legal expenses.

I guess I just would have a fundamental issue if a company charged me a fee that they are really not paying. I don't mind them charging me if they were actually paying that fee, but if they are not then why in the world would they be billing people for it?

What if Vonage does in fact win it's legal battles? Then wouldn't they would have collected these fees and be able to keep them and Vonage customers would have paid these fees needlessly? Has anyone read about Vonage being forced to collect these fees yet? I mean they haven't done it so far, so why do it now if you aren't being forced to do it? Also, if Vonage is arguing in court that they don't have to collect these fees, then why are they charging customers for collection of these fees? I simply don't understand how they can argue in court that they don't have to collect and pay out these fees but then they are charging customers to collect these fees?

Another confusing thing about this is how they could charge a flat rate charge for this? The laws and fees and taxes vary greatly by state, county, and even town and my bills are based on"

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � New Reg fee confirmed

2003-09-20T10:53:00.000-07:00

Looks like some posters on DSLReports think the Vonage regulatory fee is going to Vonage's bottom line and is being used to cover other costs.

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � New Reg fee confirmed: "I think the 1.50 is for covering the costs for something else. Only MN and WI have forced Vonage to operate in a manner for Vonage to charge any regulatory fee's.

Either they have realized they cannot win and a large majority of other states will fall in line with MN, or they are shifting the costs of something else onto consumers, very much like a traditional phone company.

If P8 and Voice pulse and voice glo do not charge this fee, the answer is clear."

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Vonage Lowers Base-Price

2003-09-20T10:50:00.000-07:00

seems like the Vonage price decrease is actually costing people more

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Vonage Lowers Base-Price: "Lower Prices... net INCREASE for many!

Well... $1.00 decrease on 'local' lines plus the $1.50 'regulatory fee' still equals a 50 cent INCREASE, according to my calculator.

Better news on the residential unlimited plan... a net $3.50 decrease.

Sucks to be us business users though... a $3.00 INCREASE (for the main and fax lines).

Forgive me if I'm not celebrating in the streets or anything... my total Vonage bill just went UP $4.00/mo."

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Recent Vonage Quality

2003-09-20T10:41:00.000-07:00

looks like Vonage's quality has been degrading recently.

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Recent Vonage Quality: "Recent Vonage Quality
I have had Vonage for over a year now, and have been pretty impressed with the quality, until a couple weeks ago.

Now, all my conversations through Vonage are very choppy and the quality is so bad, that I am resorting to using my regular phone instead of Vonage to make long distance calls."

Lawmaker aims to suspend VoIP regulation | CNET News.com

2003-09-17T05:25:00.000-07:00

Lawmaker aims to suspend VoIP regulation | CNET News.com: "Lawmaker aims to suspend VoIP regulation
By Ben Charny
Staff Writer, CNET News.com
http://news.com.com/2100-7352-5077267.html

A Pennsylvania state senator wants a five-year, statewide moratorium on regulations and taxes aimed at companies selling voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) dialing.
VoIP is a new breed of cheaper phone service that lets people place calls through the Internet and avoid telephone companies' local and long-distance networks. Although there is a relatively small number of subscribers, analysts say Internet telephony is poised to threaten the long-standing dominance of major U.S. phone companies such as BellSouth, SBC Communications, Verizon Communications and Qwest Communications International.
A bill introduced this week by state Sen. Jake Corman could make Pennsylvania one of the first states to take a stance against regulating VoIP providers such as 8x8 or Vonage.

Corman spokesman Dan Houser said that forcing arduous reporting requirements or taxes on these young companies now could ultimately 'stifle innovation.'
'Those companies run into a mountain of legal work and expense that would take away from their research and development,' he said.
Recent moves by Minnesota and Wisconsin regulators indicate that those states believe VoIP service providers should be regulated and taxed. The nation's largest carriers also support regulation, arguing that without it, there would be more people dialing, but fewer taxes collected. States provide 911 and other telephone services and are dependent on those taxes to pay for such services.
Representatives for the nation's largest phone companies did not immediately return calls seeking comment."

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet8 Voicemail

2003-09-17T05:24:00.000-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet8 Voicemail: "Packet8 Voicemail
I found out that you can dial 012-0555 to get to your voicemail box from your Packet8 phone. Could someone else help me with building a number listing for everything Packet8 related, so we can have them all in one place?

Voicemail 1.888.898.7887; 1.650.353.4400 or 012.0555 (DTA only)
Tech Support 1.888.898.8733; 1.408.687.4120 (DTA)

Other DTA numbers
012.0001 Your assigned PSTN number
012.0003 DTA's IP address"

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � DTA's IP address

2003-09-17T05:23:00.001-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � DTA's IP address: "DTA's IP address
i know we can get my DTA ip address by dial 012.0003 but it only shows some basic information i really want to know how do Packet8 setup the DTA i mean where is my user name account information i think they have other ip address for the DTA which is for Packet8 internal use"

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � anyone using fax succsessfully with 8X8 ?

2003-09-17T05:23:00.000-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � anyone using fax succsessfully with 8X8 ?: "Hi,
I am particularly interested in if anyone is using 8X8 for a fax line as they seem to have good rates.

My understanding is that Packet8 doesn't support faxing, although they are working on an upgrade that will.

I use �j2.com[?] for faxing. They give you your own phone number for about $12 per month. Incoming faxes are received by their server and arrive as message attachments in your mailbox. You either scan outgoing documents or 'print' them directly from an application to the fax driver, which sends them to the J2 server. There are other competing services. You can't use a fax machine, but having electronic copies of all faxes does make filing easy. And you can use OCR to convert incoming faxes to text."

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Packet8 Rocks!!!

2003-09-17T05:22:00.000-07:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Packet8 Rocks!!!: "Packet8 Rocks!!!
I have had P8 for several weeks and have been very pleased wit the service. It works well with both outgoing and incoming calls. Also just a day or so ago I found my voicemail working as it supposed to, leaves notification,and retrieves right. Thanks Packet8...Danny"

Wisconsin enters VoIP fray | CNET News.com

2003-09-16T05:28:00.000-07:00

Wisconsin enters VoIP fray | CNET News.com: "Wisconsin enters VoIP fray
By Jim Hu
Staff Writer, CNET News.com
http://news.com.com/2100-7352-5076852.html

Wisconsin regulators have informed Santa Clara, Calif.-based 8x8 that its Packet8 Internet voice-calling service is subject to the same rules as traditional phone companies, marking the second major move by a state against Internet-based phone operators.
The company said that the Wisconsin Public Service Commission (WPSC) informed it by letter last week that 8x8 cannot provide voice-calling services within Wisconsin without the commission's certification, and that Packet8's bills for all voice calls within the state are void.
Wisconsin's letter signals increasing regulatory scrutiny of Internet voice calling, and follows a similar warning issued to voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) provider Vonage in Minnesota last month. Michigan's Public Utilities Commission ordered that New Jersey-based company to immediately pay fees to support 911 service.

A representative for 8x8 said Wisconsin's interpretation of its Packet8 service goes beyond VoIP, with wide ramifications for Internet-based services in general.
The WPSC 'could potentially regulate e-mail because they don't distinguish between data communication and telephone communication,' Huw Rees, a spokesman for 8x8 said. 'It seems to be a lot of confusion to how and whether or not to regulate these types of services.'
Rees said 8x8 will respond to the WPSC within 30 days.
The decisions strike at the heart of an increasingly controversial question concerning VoIP services: Should phone calls that use the Internet rather than the traditional public telephone network be regulated as a telecommunications service or an Internet service?
Consumer VoIP services are still in the"

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Something Creepy about Voiceglo

2003-09-16T05:26:00.000-07:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Something Creepy about Voiceglo: "Something Creepy about Voiceglo
I signed up for Voiceglo on August 23rd. It is now September 15th and I have not received a telephone. After weeks of silence and no replies to my emails I got a call from a lady Thursday informing me that a 916 number is now available, but I had signed up to transfer my existing phone number.

When I called in today the guy seemed confused and took a message for someone to call me. He was going to leave it on the other lady's desk (i.e. they don't have voicemail??)He thought the phone would ship 'by the end of the week.'

OK guys, by the time this phone shows up it will have been an entire month. You charged me a $13 monthly fee for absolutely no service. This was in addition to the $30 activiation fee, $10 prepaid service fee, and $11 shipping fee.

I don't have a good feeling about this. Has anybody actually gotten this service to work?"

Neowin.net - Where unprofessional journalism looks better - Skype: Why VoIP is music to Kazaa's ear

2003-09-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

Neowin.net - Where unprofessional journalism looks better - Skype: Why VoIP is music to Kazaa's ear: "Kazaa co-founders Janus Friis and Niklas Zennstrom have a new target: the telephone industry.

They've launched Skype, which they claim is the first Internet phone service to use peer-to-peer software. In just its first week of availability, 60,000 people downloaded the free Skype software. Other voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, such as Vonage or Free World Dialup (FWD), needed several months to attract the same level of interest.

Just as they shook up the music industry by creating Kazaa, the pair now wants to rattle the cages of traditional telephone companies. In an interview with CNET News.com, Friis discussed the coming challenges for VoIP, what Skype actually means (nothing, as it turns out) and a possible regulatory backlash against VoIP providers, among other issues."

broadband � News � VoIP Regulation Heats Up - Wisconsin latest in regulatory push

2003-09-15T10:14:00.000-07:00

broadband � News � VoIP Regulation Heats Up - Wisconsin latest in regulatory push: " VoIP Regulation Heats Up
Wisconsin latest in regulatory push
The quest to regulate VoIP continues, as this time Wisconsin informs 8x8 that their Packet8 service is operating without the consent of the Wisconsin Public Service Commission. The commission has alerted the company that not only must they receive certification to operate, but that Packet8 bills for intrastate services to Wisconsin customers are 'void and not collectible.' The state of Minessota recently informed Vonage that the company could not operate in that state without receiving authorization to engage in business as a telco; in turn adhering to all traditional telco guidelines. The trend is something Vonage co-founder Jeff Pulver has been predicting for some time, and the argument has frequently spilled over into our forums."

PSC says firm illegally operating in Wisconsin - 2003-09-15 - The Business Journal of Milwaukee

2003-09-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

PSC says firm illegally operating in Wisconsin - 2003-09-15 - The Business Journal of Milwaukee: "PSC says firm illegally operating in Wisconsin
The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin has notified a California Internet communications company that the firm is illegally providing broadband telephone service in Wisconsin.

Santa Clara, Calif.-based 8x8 Inc. said in a statement late Friday that the PSC said it believes that the company, via its Packet8 voice and video communications service, is providing intrastate telecommunications services in Wisconsin without certification of the PSC.
In the letter, the PSC said that it believes that Packet8 bills issued for intrastate service to Wisconsin consumers are void and not collectible.
8x8 and its attorneys have contacted the PSC and are preparing a formal response, the firm said.
8x8 provides broadband telephone service, consumer videophones and other communications services and software."

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet8 Codecs and voice quality

2003-09-15T05:34:00.000-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet8 Codecs and voice quality: "Packet8 Codecs and voice quality
Packet8 has 5 settings for voice codecs, G.723 comes as default but you can change it in the DTA web configuration page I changed mine to G.729 with 10ms Packetization and Silence Suppression on and the result was increased voice quality, I have DSL with Verizon and the G.729 is just perfect, I know that if I have to use dialup I should change it back to G.723."

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Vonage 911 routed to the wrong number

2003-09-15T05:32:00.000-07:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Vonage 911 routed to the wrong number: "Vonage 911 routed to the wrong number
FYI,

you might want to check your 911 service...

I just tried to call (to report a noise problem) and ended up at a trooper station about 20 miles from me - not the correct one for my address. This should raise a couple of red flags...

Here is the email I sent to Vonage - I'll keep you in the loop on progress:

Subject: 911 service routed to the wrong number - important

I had to use the Vonage 911 service to file a noise complaint...

When I called the 911 from my xxx-xxx-xxxx line I was connected to the Hawthorne State Police Station.
That is unfortunately the completely wrong station!!!!

The correct station for my address on file for 911 with you is:
New York State Police
Memorial Drive
Krugers, NY (or Cortlandt Manor NY)
The direct number I have is: 914-737-7171 (This is the number I finally used to call and file my complaint)

Please correct this mistake for all my lines and send me a confirmation when the right number is linked up to the account.

Please also add a feature where customers can review the 911 number that you are mapping to avoid such an incident in a real emergency."

Though Vonage touts 911, they can't route calls to the right 911 PSAP, see post above. Not only does this delay emergency response but it also provides people with false security in thinking they have a working 911 service with Vonage.

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Wisconsin wants to regualte 8x8

2003-09-12T18:35:00.000-07:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » Wisconsin wants to regualte 8x8: "Wisconsin wants to regualte 8x8
Press Release Source: 8x8, Inc.

8x8 Announces Receipt of Notification From Public Service Commission Of Wisconsin Friday September 12, 5:32 pm ET

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Sept. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- 8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT - News) today announced that on September 11, 2003, it received a letter from the Public Service Commission (the 'Commission') of Wisconsin notifying the Company that the Commission believes that 8x8, via its Packet8 voice and video communications service, is offering intrastate telecommunications services in the state of Wisconsin without certification of the Commission.

According to the Commission's letter, it believes that 8x8 cannot legally provide Packet8-based resold intrastate services in Wisconsin without certification of the Commission. In addition, the Commission believes that Packet8 bills for intrastate services to Wisconsin customers are void and not collectible.

8x8 and its attorneys have contacted the Commission and are preparing a formal response."

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � 8x8 (Packet8) to stay listed on NASDAQ

2003-09-11T11:44:00.001-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � 8x8 (Packet8) to stay listed on NASDAQ: "8x8 (Packet8) to stay listed on NASDAQ
No delisting. I believe this has been a topic of conversation here.

They will remain listed on the NASDAQ per NASDAQ."

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet8 Voicemail Notification?

2003-09-11T11:44:00.000-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet8 Voicemail Notification?: "Packet8 Voicemail Notification?
I have had P8 for several days and everything was working OK, except now I found that I am having voicemails being left but I am not getting Voicemail notification light on DTA 310? Can anyone say what that might be?
Thanks
Danny"

Tech News - CNET.com

2003-09-11T11:42:00.000-07:00

Tech News - CNET.com: "Though he�s simultaneously ignoring one modern-day technological staple, Greenberg is among the biggest players trying to make a staple out voice over IP (VoIP), a new technology many believe will one day challenge, if not unseat, dominant telephone companies such as Verizon Communications and BellSouth."

8X8 to Remain Listed on Nasdaq Stock Market

2003-09-11T11:41:00.000-07:00

8X8 to Remain Listed on Nasdaq Stock Market : "8x8, Inc.
(Nasdaq: EGHT) today announced that it received a letter from the Nasdaq
Listing Qualifications Panel determining that the Company has fully regained
compliance with the Nasdaq SmallCap Market's continued listing requirements.
In the letter dated September 10, 2003, the Panel based its conclusion
upon the fact that 8x8 has, for the past twelve (12) trading days, maintained
a closing bid price of $1.00 per share, as required by Marketplace Rule
4310(c)(4), as well as a $35,000,000 market value of listed securities, as set
forth in Marketplace Rule 4310(c)(2)(B). The Panel also noted that the
September 5, 2003 appointment of Mr. Donn Wilson to 8x8's Board of Directors
and Audit Committee appears to satisfy the independent directors and audit
committee composition requirements, so long as the Nasdaq Staff does not
subsequently determine that Mr. Wilson should not be considered independent
for purposes of Marketplace Rule 4200(a)(14). The Company is confident that
Mr. Wilson meets all Nasdaq criteria for director independence."

New Network Services

2003-09-11T11:39:00.000-07:00

New Network Services: "AT&T Plans a Vonage-style Consumer VoIP Service
AT&T is currently testing a 'bring your own access' consumer VoIP service similar to the Vonage model, said David Dorman, AT&T Chairman and CEO, speaking at this week's Morgan Stanley Global Media & Communications Conference in Boston. Dorman sees great potential in such an AT&T branded, consumer VoIP service because of the 'many interesting voice features it could offer,' like 'pick your own area code,' 'phone number for life,' and the ability to reach the service from anywhere over the Internet. Internal testing of the hosted VoIP service is underway at AT&T. Dorman expects these trials will be expanded soon."

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet8 Caller ID problem fixed!

2003-09-10T06:00:00.001-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � Packet8 Caller ID problem fixed!: "Packet8 Caller ID problem fixed!
Just noticed today on a few incoming calls that the 1 is gone from my caller ID!

Instead of the normal 199-872-1234 I'm FINALLY getting the whole number! i.e. 998-721-2345"

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � My Packet8 Device Power Just Blinks

2003-09-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � My Packet8 Device Power Just Blinks: "My Packet8 Device Power Just Blinks"

This post diagnoses what happens if your Packet8 DTA Power LED is blinking.

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � VoicePulse Caller ID

2003-09-10T05:58:00.000-07:00

broadband � Forums � Voice over IP � VoicePulse Caller ID: "When I get a call on my VoicePulse telephone, the telephone number of the person calling shows up on my caller ID display, but their name does not. Instead of their name I get two quotes (''). When that same person calls on my POTS line, I get both their number and name on my caller ID display. Is this the case for all VP users or just me?"

Looks like VoicePulse only offers name delivery with caller ID in NJ, PA, and DE area codes. That sucks for people who don't get those area codes. Would suggest VoicePulse customers take a look at Packet8.

Tech News - CNET.com

2003-09-10T05:55:00.000-07:00

Tech News - CNET.com: "Vint Cerf hears VoIP calling
By Ben Charny
Staff Writer, CNET News.com
September 10, 2003, 4:00 AM PT

For someone widely regarded as the father of the Internet, Vint Cerf can be surprisingly coy about predicting the future. "

broadband » News » Regulatory Revolution - State VoIP regulatory debate continues

2003-09-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

broadband » News » Regulatory Revolution - State VoIP regulatory debate continues: "Regulatory Revolution
State VoIP regulatory debate continues
Vint Cerf (one of the co-creators of the TCP/IP protocol) and other industry insiders chime in on the recent push to regulate VoIP providers with the same measuring stick used for telcos. The state of Minnesota recently ruled that Vonage could not operate in the state unless they adhere to traditional telco guidelines. Other states are working on plans to follow suit. The push has resulted in some interesting discussion in our VoIP forums over how/if VoIP providers should be regulated.

Business Week explores the regulatory hurdles facing VoIP providers on a state to state basis. According to Vint Cerf, one of the 'co-fathers' of the web, 'to single out VOIP as a telephone service is a terrible misunderstanding of the Internet industry. I would submit that, someday, the phrase Internet telephony will sound as archaic as 'horseless carriage' sounds today.' One former FCC official claims the VoIP debate is 'forcing us to finally confront the irrationality of the current system.'"

Time To Rewrite the Rules of Telecom

2003-09-09T05:41:00.000-07:00

Time To Rewrite the Rules of Telecom: "Time To Rewrite the Rules of Telecom
By Jane Black
September 8, 2003
Vonage and a chorus of VoIP evangelists argue that the convoluted, often irrational, web of telecom regulations that have evolved over the last century threaten to kill a vibrant new technology and stifle greater efficiency and sorely needed investment in the ailing sector. "

Bell Canada hears VoIP calling | CNET News.com

2003-09-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

Bell Canada hears VoIP calling | CNET News.com: "Bell Canada hears VoIP calling

By Ben Charny
Staff Writer, CNET News.com
September 8, 2003, 9:00 AM PT

Bell Canada, one of Canada's largest phone companies, is converting its telephone network into one based on the Internet Protocol, the company announced Monday.
The changes will let Bell Canada sell new commercial services such as video calling or sharing documents over a telephone line, to begin mid-2004, according to a statement from the carrier."

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » 1st Day -Packet8

2003-09-08T11:09:00.000-07:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » 1st Day -Packet8: "1st Day -Packet8
Just installed my Packet8 service and it was up an running in less than 5 minutes, activation was swift and easy, really impressed so far. I had my sister call me after I called her and the incoming call was great, there was no echo and no lag whatsoever. I will keep everyone informed of updates...Good Job 8x8!!!
Danny
Carrabelle,FL"

New VoIP standard for videoconferencing | CNET News.com

2003-09-08T05:19:00.000-07:00

New VoIP standard for videoconferencing | CNET News.com: "A United Nations-affiliated telecommunications group has ratified a new standard for videoconferencing using VoIP, or voice over IP, a technology that routes phone calls over the Internet. "

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » September is VoIP Regulatory Month in the US

2003-09-07T14:11:00.000-07:00

broadband » Forums » Voice over IP » September is VoIP Regulatory Month in the US: "September 8th:
------------------

ITAA Event - Information Technology Association of America
»www.itaa.org/events/event.cfm?EventID=..[?]

Innovation At the Edge: The battle over Voice over Internet Protocol in the States
- 2pm eastern, 11am pacific

Presenter - Jim Kohlenberger & Jeff Pulver

ITAA Contact - Mark Uncapher, muncapher@itaa.org

Register for the Webcast: »www.itaa.org/events/register.cfm?Event..[?]

'Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is curretly undergoing growing state regulatory scrutiny.'

This webcast will cover these developments and their potential impact on consumers with two VoIP experts:

Jim Kohlenberger is a former White House Senior Domestic Policy Advisor and specialist on telecom policy.

Jeff Pulver, President and CEO of pulver.com, Inc.

------------------
September 9th:
------------------

Cato Institute Event - Will Internet Telephony Bring About a Revolution in Telecom Policy?
11:00 am EST

Register for the Cato event:
»www.cato.org/events/030909pf.html[?]

Featuring: J. Scott Marcus, Federal Communications Commission; Link Hoewing, Verizon; Brad Ramsay, National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners; Marilyn Cade, AT&T; and Jeff Pulver, Pulver.com.

The Cato Institute
1000 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20001

'Many Internet engineers and technologists have long dreamed about a day when voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) service, or “Internet telephony,” would supplement if not totally supplant, traditional analog, circuit-swit"

Light Reading - Networking the Telecom Industry

2003-09-05T12:09:00.000-07:00

Light Reading - Networking the Telecom Industry: "Volo VOIPs Up Cable

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. -- Caerus, Inc., the inventors of the ‘free softswitch’ service offering, the first softswitch and the first SS7 Media Gateway, announced today that its Communications Service Provider subsidiary, Volo Communications, Inc.,will begin a trial immediately to offer consumer and business customers in Florida unlimited calling with popular enhanced features, high speed Internet access, VPN services, and other advanced voice and data services via the local cable access network. The full suite of new products includes:
Unlimited residential local and long distance voice over IP (VoIP) services and enhanced calling features - all for a flat rate of $25 per month
High-Speed Cable Internet Access
Corporate and Residential Video Streaming Services
Virtual Private Networks - for telecommuting employees and remote offices
Storage and Data Recovery Service
Unlike other similar VoIP service offerings that traverse the public Internet, these services are offered over Volo Communications’ private IP backbone network, which is fully optimized for the highest quality business applications, offering MPLS services between switches over one national backbone network rather than 1,000s of Internet subnetworks.
'The Caerus mission is all about empowering service providers and customers of all types to finally reap the inherent benefits of packet communications technologies,' said Shawn Lewis, President & CEO of Caerus, Inc. 'Cable companies, ISPs and other service providers can offer these services to their customers through our Volo Communications subsidiary without having to go to the expense of upfront investments, costly pre-certifications, and lengthy systems integrations.'
'T"

New Net phone service off to bumpy start | CNET News.com

2003-09-04T12:38:00.000-07:00

New Net phone service off to bumpy start | CNET News.com: "New Net phone service off to bumpy start

By Ben Charny
Staff Writer, CNET News.com
September 2, 2003, 5:39 PM PT

It's been a rough start for Skype, a free voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service recently launched by a team that includes co-creators of Kazaa.
Skype's free software for making phone calls using a broadband connection became available on its Web site Friday. There have been 'some service disruptions today due to unanticipated network growth during beta,' Skype warned on Tuesday in a message. The message said the company hopes to have the problems fixed in 24 hours.
Skype representatives were not immediately available for comment.

Skype is a new service for making unlimited free phone calls using VoIP, which places calls using the Internet rather than the privately owned telephone networks. It joins a cluster of relatively new companies such as Free World Dial-Up (FWD), a free VoIP service that recently said it has signed up more than 50,000 users, and major Instant Message companies that now let users make VoIP calls.
On its Web site, Skype claims that unlike rivals, its software works with most security-enhancing firewalls and network address translation setups. Skype also sells headsets and a telephone handset to plug into personal computers for between $13 and $28.
FWD spokesman Daniel Berninger said that Skype can only be used through a computer, while FWD and others transform a household phone into a VoIP dialer. But Berninger said Skype does have one thing most of the young VoIP industry doesn't: star power.
Former Kazaa heavyweights that have signed onto Skype include Chief Executive Niklas Zennstrom, co-creator of the Kazaa software, and Ahti Heinla, Skype's chief architect and one of Kaz"