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(More customer reviews)I've had Packet8 service for a year and a half now. I know many folks want to know how does this thing last over the long run. Well for me, its nearly perfect.
First thing you need to know is that this phone is dependant on electricity reaching this device as well as an internet connection. That means if you have a power outage, you have no phoneline. Something to consider. Also if your internet connection goes out frequently, so will your phone. If you have a power outage, you need to power cycle this device along with your modem and router in order to get back on the phone. I've learned this the hard way over time.
Also, if you're looking to totally dump MaBell and $30+ monthly fees for voicemail, 3 way calling, caller ID, call waiting, etc (in my area, those basic features ran me 50+ a month) I highly recommend a CABLE internet connection. Reason being is that most times if you disconnect your phone line completely from MaBell, you'll lose your DSL. Least in this area thats the way it goes. To go totally without MaBell, use a cable internet connection. And now they're offering a 2nd number or "virtual number" for 4.95 a month with no setup fee until January. Good deal for college parents or people with family in another state. Just get a packet8 virtual number in their hometown and have them enjoy calling you as a local number. Easy!
Another thing, this service does NOT support 411 or 311 calling AT ALL yet. They promise to have the feature in the future, but how long is unknown. This means to most people keeping a list of local non emergency direct switchboard numbers and using the internet as a phone book. Tedious, yes. But I havent found 311 and 411 access to be worth over 40 dollars a month to me just for the right to use them.
Unlike other broadband phones, Packet8 offers true 911 access. Your home is connected by address to the dispatch. Most other companies only offer a pseudo 911 that you have to tell the police or hospital or fire department your exact address. If its an emergency, do you really want to be hanging around your house to give and verify all of this information?
Another thing is system stability. MOST times their network is stable. I get one outage for about 4 hours a month. NOT the end of the world for most, but it can be annoying. Sound quality is good unless you're downloading 15 movies online and chewing up your bandwidth then you'll experience echoing and periods where you cannot hear the other person. Stop the download and you'll be fine. Just dont tear up the pipe and you'll be fine. For most this is not an issue.
Updates are rather simple, you go to their website, you download an application and it patches the device, simple! A manual install is also available that includes a diagnosis mode.
I've been nothing short of thrilled with their service and the price is definitely right!
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8x8 Packet8 Broadband VoIP Service with DTA-310 Phone AdapterThe 8x8 Packet8 adapter is a VoIP (voice over-internet protocol) device that allows you to use your phone to place calls over the internet (requires an 8x8 VoIP service plan). All you need is a broadband internet connection, a router, and this adapter. It's easy to set up and works with any high-speed DSL or cable internet connection. Simply plug your phone into the adapter, plug in the power cable, and connect the adapter to your network with the included Ethernet cable.
The Packet8 service and adapter allow you to enjoy all the features that you have come to expect from traditional phones, such as call waiting, caller ID, personalized voicemail, and three-way calling, while also taking advantage of features only possible by utilizing the latest in internet technology.
Anyone with broadband (high-speed) internet access can use their regular phone to make unlimited calls from anywhere to anywhere in the U.S. and Canada, for one low monthly rate. All Packet8 subscribers also get unlimited worldwide calling to other Packet8 subscribers at no extra charge. Manage you account online, forward voicemail to your email as an attachment, and more. You also have the advantage of taking your home area code with you when you travel, so your home or office can reach you without paying long distance rates.
The Packet8 phone adapter has a small 5.5-by-4.0-inch footprint and weighs just 8 ounces. It also comes backed by a one-year warranty.
What's in the Box Adapter, Ethernet cable, AC power adapter, user's guide, service and promotional information
Terms and Conditions Buying this item signifies agreement to sign up for service with 8x8 and to pay a monthly subscription fee. For details about how the service works and for complete terms and conditions, visit www.packet8.net. For technical assistance, call 1-888-898-8733.
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