[asterisk-users] BLF Compatible Phones

[David Nedved]

> One of the features that will be important (particularly for the
> receptionist desk is to show status of the other lines in use). I
> don't
> want the receptionist to pick up a line if it being used.

Hi Dayton,

It's even easier than that.  With an asterisk PBX your receptionist
shouldn't be "picking up" analog lines directly for either incoming or
outgoing calls.  S/he will be able to sit back and file their nails and
answer the phone when it rings, and to dial out just let asterisk
manage the lines for that as well.  You don't have to worry about
anyone managing the lines, let the software do the work.

If you fill up all the lines with either incoming or outgoing calls
you'll run into issues of course, but then it's a simple case of adding
lines to meet demand.  You will want to keep track of usage for this
purpose, but it need not be actively managed by the receptionist unless
you specifically want them to.  A small script is more reliable and
better for most cases.

If you've already got the server set up at home, dig through ATFOT a
little more and start configuring a line or two at home and you'll
start to realize how the config works.

Best regards,

David

david_nedved at yahoo.com