Use of non-supported phones

[davo67]

I have a potential client who has NEC DT800 phones. In the past we've generally used Yealink phones which are supported and in my experience work well. The client has asked if they can use the NEC phones with 3CX as they've been told they're IP phones and will work with all IP systems.

Comments?

 

[cobaltit]

It's been stated many, many times. Here is the list of 3CX supported phones:

https://www.3cx.com/sip-phones/

3CX is SIP compliant so yes any SIP compliant device can work with it. But without being supported that means you are on your own configuring the phones (manually or via template) and doing everything else required to make them work.

A Google search for 3CX and DT800 returns nothing of value so it looks like you are on your own. You should tell the customer to have the person who said they will work with all IP systems to make one work as proof but otherwise save yourself some headache and stick with what you know works.

 

[eddv123]

Most SIP compliant phones will work (albeit with manual configuration) however you need to be wary of the bigger brand names since there can be proprietary settings/features that could make the process more trouble than its worth.

3CX for example have done this with Avaya phones and it is far from straight-forward (and thats with a guide): https://www.3cx.com/sip-phones/avaya-ip-phone-provisioning/

Dependent on the size of the opportunity I swap the handsets for the cheapest supported brand and be done with it - you will waste too much time trying to get these setup I think.

 

[JohnS_3CX]

Hi @davo67

Although SIP compatible devices may work, we cannot guarantee you will have all the features of 3CX a customer pays for, nor that they will behave correctly or as you intend them to.

In most cases, you can get basic call functionality, but may have trouble with transfers, BLFs, hold etc.
Also you will have to invest more work hours to get them working and troubleshooting them as problems arise.

When you weigh the above pros and cons, it may be best for you and the customer to get compatible devices, and auction off the old ones. Besides, the DT800 are tailored for the manufacturer's PBX system whereas another brand like i.e. Yealink or Snom are more universally supported and built with a more open market in mind rather than a specific PBX system.

Consider the above and advise the customer accordingly so they know what they are dealing with.

 

[davo67]

Thanks everyone for your posts.

This was our thoughts but worth confirming that we were right. TBH with a cheap Yealink only around Au$100 I didn't think it would make any sense to try using the NEC phones, your replies have reinforced this.

 

[davo67]

Hi @davo67
When you weigh the above pros and cons, it may be best for you and the customer to get compatible devices, and auction off the old ones.

I like this idea and will suggest it to the client.

 

[cobaltit]

I like this idea and will suggest it to the client.

Extra kudos for not being one of those guys that asks for advice and then argues against it . If the customer doesn't take your advice they will probably be a PITA in the long run anyways. Good luck on the implementation!