Multi Line Phones

Most homes nowadays have a simple multi line phone system. It consists of one telephone line and several telephones in different rooms of the house connected to it. In technical terms these telephones are called extensions. The system is very basic, since only one person at a time can receive or make a telephone call. For businesses, however, that particular set up is not sufficient, since they need a lot more features to service their clients.

When choosing a system for business multi line phones, a company has to define first its needs. How many clients does it have to service and how many providers to attend, and how many outside telephone lines does it need to have at its disposal. Independent of the type and size of the system, a business needs all standard features offered nowadays by telephone companies, such as voice mail, call forwarding, transfers, and maybe music on hold.

Most companies that offer and sell multiple line phones systems take as a benchmark for offering a particular system simply the number of employees in the company, since that determines the need for outside telephone lines and extensions. In a small business, let's say with less than ten employees, a decentralized system should be appropriate. Each phone extension in that system contains the technology needed to use all the features available, so there is no need for a centralized switchboard.

In mid-sized companies with up to 50 employees, however, that set up is not sufficient to serve all the needs of the business. On the one hand, it doesn't allow for calls to another extension within the office. On the other it doesn't prevent staff from accidentally picking up a line that is being used. Here a central control device, called the KSU (key system unit), is needed.

Companies with more than 50 employees not only want a system that includes all possible features, but as well one that is customizable to the specific needs of each department and user. The company has to be able to program the system so that it can carry out the most complex tasks. Those systems are obviously the most expensive ones.



Popular makes, such as vocalocity or 8x8,Inc, include phones with different features, such as a basic ten button set, or a ten button set with a caller ID display. They might as well include an integrated speakerphone and other features. There are many websites that allow you to compare online the products, features and prices for business multi line phones. After purchasing a new 2 line phone system, it is also a good idea to buy a pocket HD for your home or office.