USB VoIP speakerphone a good call for Skype

The USB VoIP Speakerphone is a nifty PC attachment that is ideal for Skype users. It can be plugged directly into the computer and uses digital signal processing (DSP) technology to deliver clear voice quality.

The USB VoIP Speakerphone supports USB plug and play and hot-plug operation and complies with USB 2.0 Full Speed (12Mbps) and USB Audio Class Specification V1.0. Sound is emitted through a 3-watts, 4-ohms speaker, with frequency response ranging from 100Hz to 16KHz, while a built-in ommi-directional microphone - frequency response from 20Hz to 16KHz – picks up voice.

The speakerphone features a built–in DSP voice processor for full-duplex echo cancellation and noise suppression and has a digital audio amplifier to maximize the clarity of calls and music playback. It doesn't need an external power supply and plugs directly into the computer.

Additional features include six dedicated function keys for Skype - up/down arrow, tab, minimize, dial and hang up – and three audio control keys (including speaker volume and mute). There are LED indicators for data transfer (green) and microphone mute (red) and 3.5mm audio connectors for a microphone and earphones.

The speakerphone has been designed based on the Skype application programming interface (API) and is compatible with Free Blaster Middleware for Skype's Windows version 1.2 or above. It is 84mm x 86mm x 22mm and weighs 102g.

System requirements

The speakerphone requires Pentium-II 233MHz or above, 128 MB of system memory and about 20 MB free hard-disk space for Skype and SkyBlaster Middleware. You will also require internet connection, Windows 2000/XP and Skype (for Windows) version 1.2 or above.

Included with the USB VoIP Portable Speakerphone is a mini USB cable, user's manual and drives. It costs USD$45 and is available at USB Brando

David Greig