Voice Communications

Black Box offers several headsets for office use. Choosing the right one for your application depends on your needs.

First, do you need a monaural, binaural, or stereo headset? Monaural headsets have only one earpiece, making it easy to have over-the-phone conversations as well as face-to-face interactions, such as in a busy call center setting (see models HS402 or 64338-31, for example). Binaural headsets have two earpieces, which are on the same audio channel (HS113A or 2009-820-105). They are great when a user needs to have long, over-the-phone conversations. Stereo headpieces also have two earpieces, but operate on distinct audio channels. These last types of earpieces are best for listening to music.

Secondly, comfort is a big factor, especially if you have to wear a headset all day. Do you want an over-the-head model? Or would you prefer to wear your headset behind the ear? Headsets with two earpieces are almost always over-the-head models (see H16N). For long-wear applications and optimum sound quality, these are a good choice. Over-the-ear models are better for in-office interactions, or for when you are on and off the phone all day (26089-11 or M140). The sound quality is still excellent, but they enable you to also be aware of your environment.

Thirdly, choose an amplifier that matches your telephone and the way you work. The Two-Prong Carbon Amplifier (HS101A) is designed for phones that have a two-prong headset port. Several headsets have amplifiers built-in, such as the Elite Call Center Headset (HS111A).

Most Black Box headsets are noise-canceling models that reduce background sounds. They are ideal for busy office environments.

We have wireless headset models, plus cords, plugs, and adapters that enable extra mobility during calls. In addition, we carry extra parts such as earhooks, ear pads, headbands, and microphone covers.

The difference between consumer- and commercial-grade phone-line managers is more than just a matter of size. The number of ports, phone lines, and connected communications equipment possible with commercial-grade devices is larger—as many as 24 devices on 8 lines!

But flexibility is the key factor. The extra features, like programmability and built-in surge protection, set commercial line managers apart. Some models feature connections for three devices to each phone line, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Others can provide shared connections for an entire business, saving thousands of dollars per year.

And data-collection transmissions can also be run on the same lines used for voice calls, so remote business sites can transmit information for centralized data collection over one phone line—no dedicated line necessary.

Proper microphone positioning is especially important to take advantage of noise canceling microphones, which reject background noise.

For optimum performance, position the microphone one finger width away from your lower lip.