"Andrew Hodgson" <me3@privacy.net> wrote in message
news:hef0d1po3hgv5r73iajp7rgek504a9pcl9@4ax.com...
> Hi,
>
> I am using Skype every now and again but want to get freed from this
> and use something different. I could go with a non-specific software
> package, but would rather use hardware not tied to my machine(s). I
> am thus looking at ATA equipment which will plug into my existing
> system, the machine will be given its own IP address, but don't need a
> router or anything.
>
> I have looked at software such as Asterisk but it is weigh ott for my
> requirements (I only have a few DECT units on the line, and would want
> the VOIP stuff to be separate from this).
>
> I will start with just making free calls to other VOIP users, but
> would want to allow cheap calls to be made over the line (usually for
> a long period), which would mean that the analog line would be free
> for incoming calls for example when my sister wishes to make a long
> call to her friends.
>
> It is usually my tack to start off small but then start adding stuff
> later on, so any ideas?
>
> Thanks.
> Andrew.

If you just want to experiment without committing yourself, get a free
account from Sipgate (www.sipgate.co.uk) and try X-Lite, the software
phone. A lot of people on this group have issues with Sipgate in terms of
reliability, but for testing the waters it is ideal. You may prefer to use
a different provider afterwards, but it's up to you.

Regarding ATA's, it is generally held that the Sipura range are among the
best and most reliable. See www.sipura.com for details of their range.

Ivor

> --
> Andrew Hodgson in Bromyard, Herefordshire, UK.
> My Email: use <andrew at hodgsonfamily dot org>.