Aastra, a market leader in professional DECT, is enhancing the business DECT market by becoming the first vendor to offer High Definition (HD) audio quality to corridor warriors.

Aastra’s SIP-DECT® 3.1 release reaps the benefits of CAT-iq (Cordless Advanced Technology—internet and quality), a new standard initiated by the DECT Forum for IP and voice services in the next generation cordless networks (including HD voice).

With the launch of SIP-DECT® 3.1, Aastra is introducing a new handset and range of base stations, all CAT-iq 1.0 certified, bringing crystal clear HD quality sound to employees who are on the move.

A series of industry firsts

Aastra’s SIP-DECT release 3.1 heralds a series of industry firsts including:

• the first enterprise DECT handset with CAT-iq certification to offer HD quality audio
• the first to offer a DECT network with a fast Gigabit Ethernet backbone to integrate with the latest generation of IP networks
• the first to offer a comprehensive CAT-iq solution for business DECT
• the only company with a DECT/WLAN-n-standard combo base station

This new release builds on Aastra SIP-DECT’s existing strengths: a cost effective, easy to deploy and highly scalable in-house mobility solution for businesses of all sizes, including multi-site organisations and ideal for vertical sectors such as healthcare, retail or hospitality where on-site mobility is a key requirement.

According to Henning Gmerek, Global Wireless Terminals and Infrastructure Manager at Aastra, “More and more people are experiencing the benefits of High Definition IP phones. They really enjoy the superior sound quality, particularly when making overseas calls or taking part in conference calls. Thanks to Aastra’s SIP-DECT 3.1, they can now benefit from such high quality sound when on the move at work."

“Mobility is a major component of Aastra’s strategy. As a result of developing our own DECT technology, we are able to lead the way in the business DECT market. Our significant investment in R&D has resulted in Aastra becoming the first provider to offer such a comprehensive solution with CAT-iq High Definition audio. We have a very compelling and cost-effective in-house mobility offer for businesses of all sizes wanting High Definition sound on business DECT handsets. We also provide a choice of deployment options, including easy integration within an IP environment.”

According to Francisco Rizzo, Research Analyst, Unified Communications and Collaboration from Frost & Sullivan, “With voice quality and security being two of the main components that IT managers look for when considering an enterprise mobility solution, DECT is the clear winner. Working over a dedicated frequency, DECT handsets have superior sound quality and security in comparison to VoWLAN Single-mode devices. DECT’s overall cost effectiveness (low-cost handsets, implementation, and maintenance) compared to other wireless solutions aids its adoption.”

A comprehensive offering
Aastra’s new 650c DECT handset provides the full experience of wideband audio. It supports Bluetooth and comes with a scratch resistant display for industrial environments. The 650c is also compatible with Aastra SIP-DECT added-value features such as locating, messaging and alarming.

The new base stations introduced as part of Aastra’s SIP-DECT 3.1 launch fully support CAT-iq and Gigabit Ethernet. The new range includes the following models:

• RFP 35 IP for indoor use
• Combo RFP 43 WLAN, providing the best quality for DECT and data transmission
• RFP 36 IP with built-in antennas for outdoor use (campuses, car parks)
• RFP 37 IP for use with external antennas for outdoor communications

Aastra’s SIP-DECT 3.1 can be integrated with Aastra’s communication servers, SIP compatible call managers, IP Centrex or Microsoft® Lync™ with certified gateways.

For further information, visit www.aastra.co.uk 

Further information (external website)