Plantronics released a new version of their USB handset a few months ago named the Calisto P240-M, which replaced the P210-M. I thought I would focus on this device since the USB handset is often overlooked by IT when selecting devices for a Lync deployment, but is a device I am often asked about by end users. The familiar form factor coupled with the hassle-free mobility, Caller-ID display, and a dialpad is a perfect fit for some users. Being able to take a call privately while remote without having to put on a headset is something only the USB handset provides. When a PC is locked, the USB handset also allows a user to dial a phone number or see who is calling without unlocking the PC.
Overview – The Calisto P240-M is much slimmer and more attractive than the P210-M that is replaces, with a combination of glossy and matte black finishes and rubberized buttons that have a nice tactical feel. My biggest complaints about the P210-M were that it was pretty bulky for a portable handset, and the buttons were very clicky and played a beep every time they were pressed, all of which was transmitted to the person on the other end of the call. This is not the case with the P240-M. The handset is the right balance of being slim enough for travel yet comfortable to hold, and most of the buttons do not transmit noise on a call. I say “most” because I found that the 4 buttons used to navigate the menus did transmit an audible click, but it is not necessary to navigate these menus during a call. New features include a backlit display and a built-in speakerphone. MSRP is $79.95.
Display and Features – The display shows the name or number of placed and received calls, date and time, call duration, mute status, and Hold status. A Menu option offers Redial, adjustment of various volume settings, switching the built in ringer on/off, and 11 languages. I was disappointed in the Redial feature, as it only redials the last number dialed from the handset. I place most of my calls using click-to-call in Lync, so when I called someone using the Redial feature on the handset, it placed the call to the last number I had dialed from the handset days ago instead of the person I had clicked-to-call in Lync an hour earlier. Not a great experience and one a lot of end-users would not understand. I imagine most users would blame the problem on Lync, not understanding the odd way that the handset handles the Redial feature.
Having both Answer and End buttons gives some functionality not found on a lot of USB audio devices. The Answer button can be used to place calls on and off Hold and as a Flash to answer a second incoming call or switch between two active calls. The End button can be used to reject incoming calls.
Speakerphone – The speakerphone feature is a nice addition on a device like this, as having one device in your bag that can handle calls privately or on speakerphone is very convenient, plus it saves on cost and bag space compared to buying two devices. A large button on the side of the device is pressed to turn the speakerphone on and off. I found the speakerphone to perform fairly well, although audio became somewhat distorted at maximum volume and it should be set down when in use as the microphones pick up a lot of noise when the unit is handled. It does not match the quality of the dedicated USB speakerphones on the market, but as a feature on a handset at this price it performed better than expected.
Portability – The P240-M is perfectly suited for the mobile worker or office worker. The slim profile and design makes it easy to carry in any laptop bag and the unit feels quite durable. A protective carrying pouch is included, which I recommend using to keep the screen and glossy parts of the handset scratch-free when stuffed into your laptop bag. I ended up with a few light scratches after transporting mine for a few weeks without using the pouch. They aren’t too noticeable, but I could see over time the buildup of these would diminish the look of the device. There is one small feature this device has that I always like to see on a portable device, a Velcro wrap attached to the cord for cord management. It’s such a cheap feature to add, yet so many devices don’t come with it. Pulling your device out of your bag without having to untangle the cord when you’re trying to get on an important call? Priceless.
Desk Use – The P240-M works great for someone that is looking to use the same device at their desk as well as on the go. An optional desk stand keeps the display where you can see it and the 8’ cord provides enough length to reach from a PC on the floor to the desktop (something not all USB audio device provide). If you are considering this as strictly a desk-only device though and already have a portable device, I would recommend considering one of the “Oak” USB Desk Phones instead, such as the Plantronics Calisto P540-M, Polycom CX300, or Snom UC600 (all 3 are identical). The Oak phones will provide better speakerphone performance, a larger display, and an analog headset port, although the price is considerably higher.
Summary – The Calisto P240-M offers users a portable USB device in a familiar form factor that allows users to quickly take a call without needing to wear the device (like a headset) or broadcast it for everyone to hear (like a speakerphone). The ability to see Caller-ID, place calls, and handle multiple calls while the PC is locked are features I have been asked about many times by Lync users. Bundle all of that with a built-in speakerphone in a highly portable design and this device is an excellent value for $80 MSRP.
LIKE:
- Highly portable, durable, and attractive design – perfect for users on the go.
- Many useful features such as backlit display, Caller-ID, multi-call control, and built-in Speakerphone.
- Huge improvement in button quality and feel over the previous version.
DISLIKE:
- Redial feature does not work as expected.
- Glossy parts can scratch if not taken care of properly when transported.
- Speakerphone quality is decent, but distorts at max volume.
