Zultys Technologies Inc. this week announced an IP phone for its IP PBX phone system, aimed at integrating converged applications and simplifying telephony management and administration.
The ZIP 4×4 IP phone is based on Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) and can work with Zultys’ MX1200, a Linux- and SIP-based IP PBX. The phone could be used to deploy applications such as instant messaging and encrypted voice traffic while easing end-user administration with automated registration and device software updating features.
The ZIP 4×4 has a built-in switch with four 10/100Mbps Ethernet ports for connecting PCs or other desktop devices to the network through a single cable connected to the phone. The phone supports the latest draft of the IEEE’s pending 802.3af standard for powering devices over Ethernet cabling. When deployed with LAN switches that have backup power, the phones could continue to provide dial tone in the event of a blackout.
The phones can encrypt calls using 128-bit Advanced Encryption Standard technology and Secure Real-time Transport Protocol, which can prevent packet sniffers or other devices from tapping into IP phone conversations over a LAN or WAN, Zultys says. The phones also support network address translation and VPN connectivity, allowing teleworkers to use the phone from a home broadband connection, the company says. This deployment would allow a worker at home to receive calls from a work phone extension, retaining all applications and features that are supported in an office.
The phone itself is closer to an Internet appliance than a regular telephone, according to the company, as the device runs an embedded Linux operating system and can be configured with applications such as instant messaging, where text messages appear on an LCD screen. The phone includes an embedded T/FTP server – which can download software updates and patches – controlled from a console on the MX1200 device.
The ZIP 4×4 competes with phones such as Cisco Systems Inc.’s 7060 SIP IP phones, Pingtel Inc.’s Express SIP phone and SIP phones from Siemens AG and SNOM. Zultys says all competing SIP phones can operate on its MX1200 IP PBX.
The ZIP 4×4 will be available this month for US$400.
