What is a VoIP PBX?
The VoIP PBX has now superseded the TDM (time-division-multiplexing) PBX that was the hub of all business phone systems for some 20-30 years. TDM switches are no longer manufactured in volume and are rapidly being replaced by VoIP business solutions.
VoIP PBX v. TDM PBX
The TDM PBX is also referred to as a circuit switched PBX. The logic that controls switching is embedded in circuit cards and hard wiring. The technology is voice specific and was developed long before computer networks and the Internet made their appearance.
The IP PBX is soft switch technology. The switching logic is defined in software, as are the features features specific to each implementation.
See also: VoIP Pros and Cons
VoIP PBX Features
- Voice is carried over data networks.
- Voice is carried across networks in "packets" the same way as data traverses IP networks such as the Internet.
- Derives its features and functionality from IP PBX software rather than logic embedded in circuit cards.
- There are both proprietary and Open Source versions of the software. Asterisk is the most well known Open Source product. Proprietary products are available from companies including: Avaya, Cisco, Nortel, Mitel, Siemens and others.
- There is no physical boundary between voice and data applications. Both can be accessed from a desktop, hence the emergence of convergent business applications.
- Unified Communications or UC are convergent applications. UC is a major focus of development expected to deliver substantial improvements in business productivity and customer service.
- Available as a managed or hosted business phone service.
- In traditional PBX environments voice quality or QOS is usually not a consideration or a concern. In the case of VoIP phone systems it is a critical factor that can be affected by variables including bandwidth and the volume of voice / data traffic.
- As a networked software application the IP PBX is potentially more vulnerable to data security threats and phone fraud than traditional phone systems where voice and data were segregated.
- Also referred to as a soft switch, IP PBX or VoIP virtual PBX
The terms business phone system and VoIP business phone system are now almost synonymous.
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