Overview

On the Evolve platform, customers have several options to implement paging based on their operating environment.  We offer paging through the phones, interconnection with an overhead paging system, and we can also offer a SIP paging unit.  Some features are included with the hosted platform and others require some additional expense based on needs and environment.  

Features & Types of Paging

Paging through Phones (Multicast/Broadcast)

Evolve offers (4) types of multicast/broadcast paging thru use of the Polycom Handset Models.  This technology leverages the multicast feature on the LAN and switches need to be able to support multicast.  This type of paging is restricted to paging within a given location the user is broadcasting from.

• Normal – Handsets configured for paging and not in use (off hook) will receive a paging message
• Group – Handsets are grouped into smaller subsets to receive a page in certain locations
• Priority – This option will barge into calls those subscribed to the group making the page
• Emergency – Will broadcast to all handsets on the LAN, regardless of group AND barge into calls

Click here to learn more about our multicast/broadcasting options

Overhead Paging

Overhead paging enables businesses real-time, one-way broadcasting from any phone. A user simply calls an extension dedicated for the overhead paging system and communicates their message.  It is commonly required function in many industries, such as warehouse, hospital, retail, etc.  The overhead paging system may have the ability to configure paging groups, but that is a design feature of the customer’s paging system.  Usually, equipment is needed to interface with the overhead paging system.

This paging option allows users to page from one location to another by simply calling the extension of the paging system in another location.

Intercom

Intercom is a 1 to 1 broadcast communication method.  This feature allows 1 user to intercom another user through their speakerphone.  The can be configured to come through the user’s speakerphone and trigger the mute functionality to maintain privacy or come through without mute enabled so that the user can freely talk back without pressing a button.  This is simply a feature access code (FAC  = *50) made available to all Premium Users on the Evolve platform.

 Benefits

• Increase communication efficiency.  Broadcast announcements and emergency alerts to the entire organization or selected peers.
• Find users throughout the facility to initiate faster transferring and call handling

Pricing

Business Rules 

• Analog port is required for any overhead paging integration, which includes the ATA device. Click here for additional information.
• A Viking RAD-1A device is needed to interface with overhead paging systems and is only sold as NRR to the customer.
• An Algo SIP 8180 Paging unit is only sold to the customer to handle broadcast paging.  There are options to get strobe lights for extremely noisy environments.
• Only Premium Users can use the Intercom (Push-to-Talk) feature.
• For situations of using the SIP Algo unit, it will register as an extension.  Therefore, it may need a Common Area or Standard seat configured to have the Algo as an endpoint.  It MAY also be a Shared Call Appearance of a premium user so that it rings when the handset rings.

FAQs

Can you tell me more about the Algo paging unit?

• Yes.  This device is often used as a ‘loud ringer’ in noisy environments and can have strobe lights purchased to get user’s attention when their phone rings.  You can connect multiple units together for a larger broadcast range.

How many groups can be configured?

• Multiple paging groups available

Will this feature still work if  customer provides their own switches?

• Customer provided switches that support multicast *should* work.  EIP recommends that customers perform their own research and testing prior to cutover.  EIP will not support or provide custom configurations if the customer’s LAN does not support multicast for paging.  The recommended action is to upgrade the switches to EIP recommended / offered switches 

Does this feature work on Conference Room Polycom Soundstations?

• Conference stations and wireless KIRK handsets do not receive paging capabilities

Can my client choose which users within the group can initiate page?

• Yes, they will work with project manager to define criteria

Is this the same as Intercom Paging (Push to Talk)

• No, Intercom Paging (Push to Talk) is a broadsoft feature that is only available to Premium Users