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AdamTalk Frequently Asked Questions |
AdamTalk Basics
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What is VoIP?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is the technology that allows voice data to be coded and sent through the Internet to a new destination, before being recoded and delivered in its original form. The easiest comparison can be drawn between VoIP and emailing. Emailing takes your text, or words, before coding it digitally and sending it around the world. What is SIP and how does it relate to VoIP?
SIP stands for Session Initiation Protocol. It is used for initiating communication between two or more computers or phones. This communication may be voice, video or a combination of the two. SIP is the underlying protocol used to drive Voice over IP technology.
Telephones using VoIP technology are known as SIP (or VoIP) phones; computer programs with the same technology are known as Soft SIP Phones or simply 'Soft Phones'What plan do I need?
To use AdamTalk, you will need an Adam Internet broadband connection. For more information on our prices, visit the Adam Internet main site at http://www.adam.com.au.Do I need a telephone to run AdamTalk?
A variety of different options are available to make use of AdamTalk technology in your own home;- Using 'Soft Phone' software, phone calls can be made and received using a headset and microphone through your computer.
- An Analogue Telephone Adapter (ATA) connects your existing phone to your ADSL modem/router via Ethernet, allowing you to make and receive VoIP calls. This method is most effective with cordless phones.
- Using a VoIP capable modem eliminates the need for an external ATA as it has one built in, allowing you to plug your existing phone directly into your modem.
- An IP phone connects directly to your modem using an Ethernet connection.
Do I need to have the computer on to use AdamTalk?
No. There are numerous options available for those wishing to use AdamTalk without the computer. It is only necessary for the computer to be on if using the 'Soft Phone' computer software.
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How will AdamTalk affect my monthly data quota?
All AdamTalk calls use a small amount of data which will draw from your local data allocation.
Connecting to AdamTalk
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How do I connect to AdamTalk?
Connecting to the AdamTalk service is easy. Simply visit the Members Services Area to sign up. When making a call, you can use one of the methods listed under "Do I need a telephone to run AdamTalk?" above. -
Where can I get 'Soft Phone' software and who does Adam Internet recommend?
Currently, Adam Internet recommends and uses VoIP software made by a company called CounterPath. Their website is located here. To download their software, click on this link.
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Is AdamTalk and 'Soft Phone' available for Mac, Linux and Windows Users?
Yes, all three can use the Counterpath software mentioned above.
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For a 'Soft Phone' option, what sort of headset do I need?
Most computer headsets, generally USB, with a microphone and a compatible set of drivers will enable you to use AdamTalk. Better communication can be obtained with higher quality soundcards that provide duplex recording (for listening) and better headsets offering echo cancellation. Can I continue to use my old phone number on AdamTalk?
At present, we recommend you keep your existing fixed line phone with number and use AdamTalk predominantly for making calls. However, it will be possible in the near future to transfer your current telephone number to AdamTalk.Can I make phone calls to regular fixed line and mobile phones?
Yes, in fact you can make phone calls to any phone; local, national, international, mobile and toll-free! It's also possible to restrict the type of call made from your phone through the Members Services Area.Can I choose my AdamTalk phone number?
From the launch date, you will have a choice of 5 numbers, chosen at random.
IPND & Specialised Numbers
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What is the Integrated Public Number Database (IPND)?
The Integrated Public Number Database (IPND) keeps track of your number, name and address details for use in identifying the physical location of your VoIP service. These details are subject to the Telecommunications Act of 1997 (amended in 2006) and the Privacy Act of 1988. These details can only be utilised by carriers for providing directory assistance & operator services, publishing and maintaining public number directories, and to provide location dependent carriage services. Upon signing up to the AdamTalk service, you will be asked to enter your address details for the IPND.
More information can be obtained on the IPND here. -
What information is stored in the IPND?
The only information stored in the IPND is contact information (such as your name/address) as well as privacy details such as a listed or unlisted number. This information is protected by the Telecommunications and Privacy Acts, as listed above. -
Can I dial 000 for emergency calls?
Yes, thanks to details stored in the IPND, you can use 000 and the emergency services will know your location. -
Can I call 13, 1300, 18 & 1800 numbers?
Yes, due to the nature of VoIP technology and the IPND as mentioned above, you can dial 1800 numbers similar to dialling 000.
Quality of Service (QoS)
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What is Quality of Service?
Quality of Service, or QoS, refers to the prioritisation of different internet traffic on a single ADSL or ADSL2+ Internet connection. For instance, QoS provides the ability to make VoIP calls a higher priority than the downloading of music and net surfing. This guarantees a consistent high quality call.
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Can I setup QoS for VoIP on my home modem?
Yes. 'How To' guides will be available for setting up QoS on the Netcomm NB9 closer to the official release date of AdamTalk on Thursday October 4th.
Quality of Calls
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How will shaping affect AdamTalk?
Shaped ADSL customers may experience reduced call quality. If your account is shaped, Adam Internet recommends upgrading your ADSL plan through the Members Services Area. -
Can I use the Internet whilst using AdamTalk and the VoIP phone?
Yes. You can still use the internet and other broadband devices whilst using AdamTalk and the VoIP phone. If you experience reduced call quality while using the Internet, refer to Quality of Service above.
Voicemail
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Is Voicemail available with AdamTalk?
Yes. Just like regular phone services voicemail is provided as part of the AdamTalk service. If your phone is not available or is not answered within an alloted time, the system will ask callers to leave a voicemail message. The voicemail message is then sent to your nominated email address in the form of a wave (.wav) file.
Billing
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How can I check my call usage?
You can check the basic information of most calls after they've been concluded in the Members Services Area.
Your monthly AdamTalk usage will be itemised as a separate part of your regular Adam Internet bill and is broken down into local, national, international and other call categories, each with the total number of calls per category, summary and total cost.
