[Asterisk-Users] Re: Beginers Help - Hardware selection

[Jason Kawakami]

----- Original Message ----- 
> I am new to Asterisk.

welcome!

>
> I am trying to ascertain the hardware setup (and associated cost) I would
need. The documentation in the wiki (and elsewhere) is extensive but I am
somewhat lost in product model numbers. Hence I need an initial
recommandation to work on.

you know how to build a linux box?  associated p/n's aren't really relevant
to that portion.  start there.  if you can't do that, then look for a
consultant on the wiki (http://www.voip-info.org/wiki-Asterisk+consultants)
if you have 15 analog lines ask your provider to quote you a fractional t-1
(or PRI), it will make your life much easier you will be able to forget
about the channel bank.  if that makes economic sense then you need a t100
from digium (http://www.digium.com/index.php?menu=wildcard_t100p)

>
> 15 incoming lines, 25 employees).
> Initial scenario is to use * as a plain old PBX.
> I need voicemail, ability to transfer calls, ...

good start, Keep It Simple Stupid (KISS)  it will accomplish this easily.

>
> I figure I would need a channel bank right?
> With some extension cards?
> A pc card with a t1 line running between channel bank and pc?
> If so what maker/model. Looking for ease of setup. Approximate price?
>
> Can I reuse my old Northern Telecom phones?

Sorry, unless these are analog sets, you will not be able to use them.  If
you are willing to spend a couple of dollars on telephones, look on ebay for
Cisco 79xx phones.  The 7960 is a 6 line set with speaker phone, the 7940 is
a 4 line set.  If you are trying to replace a simple Key system with * then
I strongly suggest you invest in a higher end phone like a Cisco as to
soften the blow of moving to a system like *.

Good luck

Jason Kawakami
www.optellabs.com
Salt Lake City, UT