Need to choose one ATA adapter

[lousk]

I'd like to get one of these devices to use with FPL.
I came across the following Grandstream:
HandyTone 286 (HT286)
HandyTone 502 (HT502)
HandyTone 503 (HT503)
After reading the features and specs of these adapters, I became even more confused.
Please help, as any suggestion would be truly appreciated.

[bridonca]

All of these ATA devices will work. The HT286 should be perfect for your needs.

The HT502 is good if you want to use 2 separate VOIP accounts. I believe you can use the old style rotary phones with this ATA.
The HT503 allows you to use your land line and a VOIP account on the same phone.

[lousk]

How do I choose between Grandstream HT502 or Cisco SPA2102?

[bridonca]

I prefer the HT502 because Grandsteam makes it and VOIP is their business. While the Cisco SPA2102 will also do the job, IMHO, Cisco needs to do better when it comes to consumer gear.

[Ice]

I've never used Grandstream devices, and like bridonca said - the SPA2102 will do just fine. I really like the Linksys/Cisco devices though bridonca is correct when saying that they can really step it up when doing consumer gear.

What I'd like to add though, is now that you're down to 2 choices - go online and read some reviews. There are often screenshots as well as people ranting about what they hate about each device... then make your decision. If I had to make a decision now, I'd pick the 2102 simply because I'm familiar with it and a Grandstream review I read long time ago was not as good. That could change, however, after looking at some more recent reviews!

Another thought is to look at the DEVICE CONFIGURATION forum to see if one looks obviously friendlier to you to use. It's not a place to discuss devices but could give you some insight on what to expect.

Goodluck

[FONGO_steve]

If you don`t have any fancy requirements, then the Grandstream HT-286 you can purchase from us is your best bet. Not only will you get our full support by purchasing directly from freephoneline, but it`s also proven to be a very reliable device. I actually changed out my Linksys adapter at home in favor of a Grandstream HT-286. It`s a simple adapter, it fully supports all freephoneline features, and it never fails me (and I`m a pretty heavy VOIP user)

[killerjay]

If you don`t have any fancy requirements, then the Grandstream HT-286 you can purchase from us is your best bet. Not only will you get our full support by purchasing directly from freephoneline, but it`s also proven to be a very reliable device. I actually changed out my Linksys adapter at home in favor of a Grandstream HT-286. It`s a simple adapter, it fully supports all freephoneline features, and it never fails me (and I`m a pretty heavy VOIP user)

hey steve, i bought the device file already since i had a pap2 but it just died, but now i rather buy one from you guys as i see you said you guys will support it if theres any problems, but i wanted to know, how can i order it? i wish it was as easy as placing an order on your online store, but its only got long distance vouchers..... can you guys not just make it possible to order it online? and id also like to know, would the Grandstream HT-286 be able to run on my existing home phone wiring? i know how to connect it to my home wiring, im just more curious if it has the power to do it since its so small..... and all my phones in my house are cordless, they use 0 REN... sorry for so many questions lol

[bridonca]

I decided to do some research on the Ringer Equivalence Number of the Grandstream HT-286. It has 5 REN per RJ-11 port, so you do not have to worry about the ringer. I am already a happy owner of other Grandstream products. It is comforting to know that Grandsteam does not scrimp on their lower end products either.

As for using the house wiring, just make sure it is still not connected to Bell's infrastructure. I know that seems obvious, but I have to mention it anyway Other than that, using existing house wiring with an ATA should be pretty painless.

I never did notice that you cannot order the ATA separately online. I suppose a phone call is your only option right now, but this seems to be an oversight that can be easily fixed by the powers that be.

[killerjay]

is the grandstream the only ata that fpl backs up? like, if theres a problem, do they remote to it and see whats wrong? and thanks bridonca for helping out.... and id like to know if ordering ata's online will be possible

[FONGO_steve]

is the grandstream the only ata that fpl backs up? like, if theres a problem, do they remote to it and see whats wrong? and thanks bridonca for helping out.... and id like to know if ordering ata's online will be possible

At present time the only ATAs that we will provide support for, through phone or email, are Grandstream HT-286 ATAs that are purchased through our company. Our technicians are trained in troubleshooting and supporting this ATA. Unfortunately we do not have remote access into these ATAs, but their interface is extremely straightforward and easy to walk a customer through on the phone.

We hope to have online ATA ordering available in the future, but at present all hardware must be purchased over the phone.