Grandstream is known for its conferencing, IP voice telephony, and networking solutions for SMBs/enterprises. Grandstream also offers a plethora of additional services including physical security and networking. The company's latest, the HandyTone Series Analog Telephone Adapter is designed to create an IP telephony hybrid solution by converting analog phones into VoIP systems.
From our assessment of the ATA, setup is easy, as is management. For businesses looking to maximize productivity and efficiency of overall communication – the HandyTone Series will more than suit your interests.
The HandyTone Series consists of:
- HT801
- HT802
- HT812
- HT813
- HT814
- HT818
These ATAs are all similar in nature. The major difference between the adapters is that the HT801 has one FXS port. Grandstream’s HT802 adapter has two.
Our review of the adapter series covers key features, advantages, pricing, as well as how to buy.
Features of Grandstream’s HandyTone ATA Series
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Grandstream HT813[/caption]
With Grandstream’s HT801, users gain access to one line, encryption security, auto-provisioning, three-way conferencing, failover protection, fax support, and caller ID. Regarding security - there is TLS and SRTP encryption which protect calls and accounts.
Failover is another piece of the HandyTone adapter puzzle. Unlike switchover, failover does not require human intervention. This means, Grandstream’s SIP server automatically switches to a secondary server if anything goes awry.
Advanced telephony features are too a possibility, including call transfer, forwarding, waiting, do-not-disturb, ‘message waiting’ indication, multi-language prompts. The UC provider, furthermore, has a flexible dial plan. The primary differentiator between HT801 and HT802 is the number of phone lines you get.
With the HT802, users can access two lines. Moving up in the Series – HandyTone's HT812 features an integrated gigabit NAT router, which increases speed. This is included at no additional cost and ultimately can lead to a more stable connection.
Its HT813 has a single analog telephone FXS port and one PSTN line FXO port for backup. The combination of FXO and FXS ports enable the adapter to support remote calling to and from ‘public switched telephone networks’ (PSTNs). Another added benefit of the HT813 is flexibility, as the FXS port extends VoIP service to one analog device.
For service providers, the capabilities of Grandstream’s ATA facilitate high-quality IP services. So, what’s the difference between the HandyTone HT814 and others? Here’s a hint, it has to do with the number of FXS ports, as it has four.
Grandstream’s HT818 gives users access to the above features and has a total of eight FXS ports.
Advantages of Grandstream’s ATA HandyTone Series
Since 2002, Grandstream has been a player in the world of UC solutions, providing productivity, quality, reliability and continued innovation for SMBs and enterprises. Overall, Grandstream’s solutions aim to lower communication costs, increase security protection and enhance productivity.
What we found is that each of the adapters in the HT Series enjoys the company two useful sidekicks - clear voice quality and strong encryption. Each unit has its own unique security certificate. The systems even have the option for automated provisioning, streamlining the setup process.
Target Market and Availability
Grandstream is a privately held corporation with over 500 global employees. Located in Boston – the UC provider has offices in Los Angeles, Dallas, China, Venezuela, Morocco, Malaysia, Spain, Ukraine, and Colombia. Its complete portfolio of over 50 IP UC products is best suited for SMBs and enterprises of all sizes.
Pricing structure and how to buy
If you have questions regarding purchasing, contact sales for inquiries and pricing. Grandstream also has a reseller program.
That's a wrap
In the end, it comes down to your business goals and needs. If you need access to advanced telephony features such as call transferring, forwarding, waiting, do not disturb, ‘message waiting’ indication, and multi-language prompts – I'd recommend giving Grandstream’s HT Series a try. Business can even fax, as well as gain caller ID functionality with the HT Series.
Finally, if experiencing downtime is a concern, Grandstream’s HandyTone Series includes a failover SIP server, which automatically switches to a secondary server if the main server loses connection. Automatic provisioning makes system setup a manageable process for those with varying degrees of technical knowledge.
For such a physically small adapter, there is an overwhelming amount of power and value in Grandstream’s analog telephone adapters. For ATAs, Grandstream’s HT Series packs an immense punch and gives a new meaning to the phrase ‘good things come in small packages.’
