"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.

All I can offer is the results of my own experience:

I started with a free voipfone account to which I added some incoming UK
geographic telephone numbers - one in London and one local to my mother in
Derbyshire [this allows her to call me in London for the price of a local
call]. I also added an incoming Spanish number for someone on the Costa del
Sol to call me local call charges but this was from another supplier
[gradwell.net].

I use a Sipura ATA adaptor which has worked flawlessly behind an ipcop.org
firewall and a small 8-port network switch.

Since our low-key start our extended family now has SIP accounts through
Sipura boxes in UK, Turkey, the Phillipines and USA [most through voipfone -
e.g. local London number points to grandparents' VoIP phone in Istanbul!
:-) ] and this is where VoIP really comes into its own - free international
calls between family members who can talk without worrying about the bills.
Non-VoIP-enabled relatives can call long distance for local call rates.

Voipfone sell bundles of 500 minutes or pay as you go for about 1p per
minute to 35 countries including the USA and Spain.

The only technical problems experienced have been specific to the type of
Broadband Modem/Routers in place - a Speedtouch [solved] and a Draytek
[still a problem, awaiting firmware upgrade] and are not related to the VoIP
hardware or supplier.

Voipfone's billing system is a little strange but I gather that earlier
wrinkles are now ironed out.

L