optimizing thrifty setups (replacing Google with Localphone, others)
DieterProvisionen:
Hello everyone,
I am a longtime lurker that will have to re-adjust after the recent GV announcement. Not just my device but also those of relatives that I convinced to try the google/obi combination.
I'm hoping to get advice for two different setup possibilities, both involving Localphone for outgoing service but with different providers for inbound calls: A free option, and a paid option for e911 service and CNAM.
Of course, many users are already aware that these are possibly the cheapest options for what they provide. That might lead to requests for information about these combinations, so maybe this thread can serve as a resource. I understand little about DigitMaps and Obi configuration but could help with collating information and explaining to other novices. Really appreciate the help I received by reading posts from RonR and others on the forums, without which I could never have optimized my current configuration.
Note I make no claims about the superiority, quality or reliability of the providers I'm suggesting. The focus here is simply economy, and I'm just relaying what I've read. High volume users may find outbound per-call charges to be a disadvantage. Finally, this setup is for two-provider devices - it's possible there's an even cheaper option using more than two providers.
1. "FREE" CONFIGURATION = still pay for outbound, but cheapest I'm aware of:
* Inbound calls are handled through a combination of free DID from IPKall + free SIP account from Anveo.
Voxox is another provider that offers a "free phone number", but I don't know if their service could replace one of the above providers, as I'm confused about how exactly their service could be integrated.
* Outbound calls are handled by Localphone (1/2 cent per minute to USA, possibly the same rate for international calls if configured to use iNums)
2. PAID CONFIGURATION = cheapest that provides free inbound calls with outgoing 911 service (as well as CNAM for inbound calls):
* Inbound handled by Callcentric ($1.50/month for unlimited calls).
* Outbound calls are handled by Localphone (1/2 cent per minute to USA, possibly the same rate for international calls if configured to use iNums), except for calls to 911 which are handled by Callcentric.
So for those willing to assist, here are some DigitMap and configuration questions that apply to both of the above setups:
1. Optimized routing setup information for both configurations, e.g. routing outgoing calls to automatically use Localphone without having to enter two asterisks and a number.
2. International calls:
I read something that seemed to indicate that Localphone requires a particular format for international calls, so ideally the obi should be configured to translate those numbers when dialed to the accepted format.
Additionally, there is the option of using iNums. Since Localphone accepts this method, I assume these should always be used. If international numbers could be automatically converted to iNums in the obi, that would be ideal...otherwise, is there a template that can be used for programming speed dials?
3. "Filter" to prevent inbound calls from SIP scanners.
4. Speed dial templates for free outbound calls to other Localphone, Callcentric, and/or Obi users.
5. For paid configuration, 911 calls automatically routed to Callcentric.
6. Setting up outbound caller ID (ignore checkboxes in obi configuration and just use Localphone's method of confirming phone numbers?)
Probably left something important out that can be added if there's interest? Thanks to anyone willing to help.
drgeoff:
It may possible to have IPKall forward incoming calls directly to an OBi instead of via an ITSP. Direct IP calls are discussed at http://www.obitalk.com/forum/index.php?topic=6936.msg43895#msg43895. Has anyone tried that?
hwittenb:
It is possible to have IPKall forward incoming calls directly to an ip address, I have done that, however you may encounter fewer technical problems if you have IPKall forward the calls to a voip provider like CallCentric which has both a free "IP Freedom" account or a minimal pay-as-you-go account (forward the number to account@in.callcentric.com). As an alternative to forwarding a Washington State IPKall number, CallCentric also has a program on their paid accounts where they will give you a free incoming number somewhere in New York State. You can add a 911 service to your paid CallCentric account.
You can also place and receive INUM calls thru any account at CallCentric, as well as order an INUM number thru CallCentric.
To use LocalPhone you do not necessarily need to have the account registered. You can configure LocalPhone as a Voice Gateway (VGx) and make outgoing LocalPhone calls.
gderf:
Quote from: hwittenb on November 23, 2013, 09:38:07 am
As an alternative to forwarding a Washington State IPKall number, CallCentric also has a program on their paid accounts where they will give you a free incoming number somewhere in New York State. You can add a 911 service to your paid CallCentric account.
CallCentric will provide anyone, anywhere with a free DID incoming number with New York City region area codes. If you specify that you are using the service outside the US or Canada then this is completely free. You don't need to have any type of paid account with them to get this service.
If you take a free DID with CallCentric, you are also automatically provided with the free "IP Freedom" service.
If you want E911 service with the free DID, you tell them you are in the US or Canada, and they will charge you $1.50/month for that part of the service.
DieterProvisionen:
Quote from: hwittenb on November 23, 2013, 09:38:07 am
To use LocalPhone you do not necessarily need to have the account registered. You can configure LocalPhone as a Voice Gateway (VGx) and make outgoing LocalPhone calls.
Now I'll step into my role as newb spokesperson ;) Does using LocalPhone as a Voice Gateway (without registering the account) enable free or cheaper outbound calling?
A couple of points I should clarify about the two setups I proposed.
I don't have a need for alternate providers or config methods unless they are cheaper and/or easier while still providing same functionality (see next point)...it just avoids additional confusion.
2nd point is that the setups I'm persuing should be able to function as traditional phones (dialing numbers) first. Again, the only reason for using things like dialing IP addresses is if it's easier or cheaper, in which case the user could refer to a template for storing speed dials in that format.
Thanks for the replies
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