Voice-Over-IP

Voice-over-Internet protocol (VoIP) is a technology that lets users make phone calls over the Internet by converting analog audio signals into digital data. Telecommunications is commencing an extensive project to replace current campus phone systems with VoIP.

• Current rates for VoIP services
• VoIP work order forms
• VoIP phones and accessories
  
• VoIP phone instructions

Why Convert to VoIP?

Making the switch became necessary for the university because legacy phone systems now being used are no longer manufactured. As time passes, obtaining replacement parts for these obsolete systems becomes more difficult, if not impossible. Also, when new buildings are constructed, Telecommunications cannot purchase any phone systems that are not VoIP.

VoIP provides additional data-driven services and flexible options by merging phone and IT technologies:

• Look up names and phone numbers in the entire campus phone directory on your VoIP phone.
• When working from home or when travelling, place calls through your home computer or laptop using your work phone number. Users will no longer need to reveal their personal phone numbers.

Campus VoIP Conversion

VoIP will be installed in all new buildings such as the Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Building and the Texas Institute for Preclinical Studies. VoIP also is being installed in existing buildings, with priority given to locations undergoing extensive renovation, such as the Memorial Student Center, and to buildings with legacy systems that are no longer capable of meeting occupants' needs.

Campus Support for VoIP

Telecommunications has chosen Broadsoft to provide a carrier-grade VoIP system. It will supply necessary enterprise-wide capabilities and room for expansion and future growth. This class of systems is used by leading telecommunication carriers such as Vonage and Verizon to provide large-volume VoIP services. Texas A&M will be one of only a few universities in the United States to operate a carrier-grade system.

The Telecommunications Customer Advisory Committee evaluated VoIP phones and chose Polycom to provide standardized instruments See Telephones, Accessories, and User Guides.