[Asterisk-Users] Help please

[Michael Welter]

Hi,

My PBX/key system failed when building power was switched off and then 
back on.  The service rep says the PBX unit is so old that it is not 
repairable.

The unit has 8 incoming POTS lines and 12 multiline sets.  There are 
voice mailboxes on each line.

Switching to Qwest's Centrex system would cost about $3800/yr.  My 8 
business lines now cost $3320/yr, so the Centrex increment would be 
about $480/yr.

Purchasing a new PBX would run anywhere from $4K to $9K.

My questions are:  should I be considering Asterisk?  What type of 
telephone set could I use with Asterisk?  Would I be able to conference 
outside parties into a call?  Would I have voice mail?

Thanks for your help,
Michael Welter