[asterisk-users] BLF Compatible Phones

Sigma Networks
Sun, 18 May 2008 14:00:27 -0000

dgray at xevio.com wrote:
> I am new to asterisk and am looking to setup a small office with 4-6 IP
> phones and 4 analog lines from the local telco (primary line with HUNT
> to the other lines). I am considering purchase of a Digium AEX800.
>
> 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.
>
> Is there a list of phones that are BLF (Busy Lamp Field) compatible?
I'm
> assuming (after reading tons of misc articles) that this is what I need
> in order for the receptionist not to pick up lines in use. If this is
> not the case please set me straight.
>
> I am considering the cisco 7960's, linksys SPA942, and possibly some
> polycom phones. I was leaning toward the 7960 but I've read that it is
> not BLF compatible. Are there any workarounds for this? I am new to the
> game and would be grateful for any recommendations on which phones would
> be the easiest to setup, etc. I currently have a working asterisk
> install at home with a single cisco 7960 registered which isn't hooked
> up to any trunks as of yet.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Dayton Gray
>
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I concur with one of the earlier posts that the Aastra 57i (or 57iCT)
with the 560m LCD side car works very well.   LCD side cars are ideal
because they're alway up to date and paper based sidecars look messy.

The Aastra 57iCT is unique in that it adds a portable handset which
gives the admin the ability to go to other parts of the office and still
handle calls.

The Polycom 650 with it's sidecar also works well with BLF.