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HR20 and [email protected] Service

1247 Views 5 Replies 6 Participants Last post by  MartyS
T-Mobile just started a Vonage-like service called [email protected] It uses VOIP to make calls. So, I was going to drop my home phone.

According to Directv, I could still have my Program Guide download, but I am wondering about PayPerView movies and the Called ID feature. Is it possible to hook up my box so it functions like it currently does with a plugged-in phone line, but using the [email protected] service? Would there have to be some equipment to buy?

Thanks in advance!
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I don't have any VOIP service, but of the ones I've seen the VOIP router does have an RJ-11 jack on the back for plugging in a telephone. As far as the telephone (or any other device is concerned - my experience was with a credit card machine), it's still connected to POTS (plain old telephone service). So, IMHO, a receiver is not going to care...

Re: the guide, that's via the satellite down-link, so no concern there...

Re: VOD, you'll still need to use your BB connection... So how that connection happens is based on your network topology... Most VOIP routers will also have (typically 4) Ethernet ports on the back, so depending on location, you'll most likely end up plugging your receiver into the router (if it's close enough for that phone connection).

Lastly, again no personal experience, but I think some people do drive multiple home phones via the VOIP box (T-Mobile's is made by Linksys if I'm not mistaken), by plugging it into their existing home wiring... Obviously if you have an alarm system or DSL, some modifications/filters may be required.

From what I've seen, the wireless handsets designed to work with the router (I forget the protocol name) are pretty slick...
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I have t-mobile @home. My caller ID shows up most of the time via the HR20-700, so it should work for PPV. You will need to hook up the router to the existing phone lines in the house (easy if you don't use DSL) or have the router near the DVR (and run cable directly).
When I switched from POTS to Vonage I disconnected the phone lines coming into the junction box and connected the adapter to one of my phone jacks. It all works the same as before.
dafreeds said:
T-Mobile just started a Vonage-like service called [email protected] It uses VOIP to make calls. So, I was going to drop my home phone.

According to Directv, I could still have my Program Guide download, but I am wondering about PayPerView movies and the Called ID feature. Is it possible to hook up my box so it functions like it currently does with a plugged-in phone line, but using the [email protected] service? Would there have to be some equipment to buy?

Thanks in advance!
not that this directly answers your question, but if you are using [email protected], you will have high speed internet at home. if so, you can just connect the Hr20 to the internet and then shouldnt need the phone line...afaik, the ATA that T-mobile sells you has a built-in router.
rajeshh said:
not that this directly answers your question, but if you are using [email protected], you will have high speed internet at home. if so, you can just connect the Hr20 to the internet and then shouldnt need the phone line...afaik, the ATA that T-mobile sells you has a built-in router.
Hmmm... if you have [email protected], you already have HS Internet... is there a reason why the OP wasn't connected yet? [email protected] doesn't add internet, it uses an existing broadband connection. What it does do is add wireless.
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