[Euphoria] Re: OT Callwave Does Work
Hi Don,
You asked (12/4):
"Does anybody have any experience with Callwave software?
(A way to take calls while online.) (Monthly service charge $7.95.)
Is this a rip off or works good?"
I used Callwave's software and service for a significant period of time,
and it did work well. However, this was some time ago. At that time,
the service was free, supported by advertising via an additional ad bar.
The way the service worked, someone could get in touch with me by phone
if I was connected to the Internet. This had to be someone I knew and
wanted to talk to, because I had to give them Callwave's toll free 800
number and my extension to leave a real-time voice message. If I was
connected to the Internet at the time and running Callwave's software,
I would get an alert that a message was coming in, and it would be played
through the PC's speakers. Sound quality was excellent. I could then
disconnect from the Internet and call the person back quickly. I could
also save the message indefinitely and repeat them as desired. The voice
messages are delivered in a process akin to email.
"What's the best way to go with this?"
I think the suggestions by Greg Haberek and Jon are worthwhile. Callwave
offers something different from a broadband Internet connection. It has
an advantage that you don't have to take the call or don't have to take
it till it's convenient to you. You can decide based on who called you
and what they had to say in their message. The disadvantage is that you
can only get calls from people who know the 800 number (though the latest
version of the software may have some workaround for that), and you need
to disconnect from the Internet to call back. Whether it's worth the
stated fee depends on how many calls you would get, how important they
are to you, how much you like the service and how it compares to other
options.
Both types of wired broadband Internet (DSL and cable) require additional
hardware, two different types, which need to be installed. From the ads
I've seen, customer installation is often required. How easy or difficult
that is needs to be considered. You also need to check out hardware and
software requirements; the systems may not be viable with older PCs.
I think the introductory rates should be disregarded as you would have
to pay the regular fee sooner or later. The rates as advertised do not
fully disclose additional fees and surcharges that increase the real rate.
However, broadband offers more than just an Internet connection and
freeing up your phone line so that you can get calls while connected
to the Internet. They offer high-speed access, including the ability
to download software, video and music files that can be tedious using
dialup access. Eventually -- when the cost is low enough -- most people
would probably want the faster access.
Regards,
Dr. Heyman
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