Answer: If your phone, or any other device you plan to use a headset with has an input port, then you can buy any compatible brand’s bottom lead that has the correct connection type. IE: USB, RJ11, or 3.5mm Jack.
The difference between branded “approved” connection cables, and any other – is the functionality of the buttons on the cord, IE Volume control or the “accept/reject call” button – so make your decision based on if you need that functionality to be guaranteed to work.
IP (Internet Protocol) Phones
We are all moving to IP phones. These can be conventional looking desk phones with all the usual functionality and looks so users are comfortable with migration away from traditional phone systems to an IP desk phone. These would typically require an RJ1, 3.5mm or 2.5mm jack.
Softphones
At the same time, IP softphones are becoming more mainstream. Softphones such as Skype for Business and Cisco Jabber work with software on PC/mobile devices using the internet to dial out straight from the PC without the need for a physical phone.
Many in the industry believe that over time desk phones will be phased out as all the functions found on them should be available through software and a click of a mouse on the PC. One thing you will need is a headset, the most likely connection would be USB.
USB Bottom Leads
There is a lot of hype about the need to have a USB cord with softphone specific approvals
(e.g. Skype for Business, Cisco Jabber etc.). This is normally to sell a more expensive solution than required, when in reality, the only extra functionality to a standard non-approved USB bottom lead is the ability to accept/reject a call using the control box on the cord.
Various types of USB headset Bottom Lead
ALL BUTTONS – BL-05(MS-P) MS Lync/Skype for Business bottom lead that gives you a unified communications ready USB connection. CONTROL BOX – accept or reject a call, mute and volume control.
In our experience, companies are just as happy with a more cost effective standard USB bottom lead, using their mouse to simply and easily accept/reject a call. Another alternative we find, is that a lot of Call Centres prefer that staff are not distracted while on a call and are happy to use a USB bottom lead with no buttons at all on the control box!
NO BUTTONS – BL-052(+P) is a universal USB 2.0 bottom lead that is cost effective and without buttons, a truly plug and play USB bottom lead.
NO CALL/ACCEPT – BL-05(+P) is a universal USB 2.0 bottom lead that will work on all known softphones – a cost effective plug and play solution. CONTROL BOX – enables mute (with illuminated LED) and volume control.
