Hello, I am new here. I am also somewhat new to telephony and IT, however, I am technically adept.
I work for a small but growing non-profit in Colorado and I wear many hats. Because I am the only one who has a clue about computers, I am the default IT person. Our communications needs are growing and we are checking out phone system -- particularly Asterisk. As I understand it, for a relatively low initial hardware investment (PC, TDM4 card, phones), I can get into this VoIP system, use it with our current computer network and will have the power and flexibility of a much more expensive system. My concern is that I know nothing about Linux or Asterisk. I can troubleshoot most any problem on Mac or Windows (even networking where I have little experience) but I fear I will be over my head with this and it will consume all my time. I understand there will be a time commitment (more at first and less for maintenance) but as my primary duties are elsewhere, I cannot afford to put in too much time on this project. Finally, my questions: 1) How much time should I expect to become familiar with Linux considering I am only interested in it at this point for the Asterisk installation (however, I have been looking for an excuse to learn it)? 2) How much time should I expect it to take for me to configure Asterisk for a basic installation? Once we have dial-tone and can make/receive calls, I will add/configure features, voice mail, etc. 3) I know what specs they say to run Asterisk, but realistically, what minimum specs would you recommend for the PC? 4) How much should I expect to pay initially for the basic hardware (PC, card, phones, book)? Any recommendations for providers? Our current phone company is offering us a full, fractional T1 with four lines for $368/mo and a $250 install with a three-year contract. Does this sound like a good deal? I'm hoping I can get the initial installation and configuration done in 30-40 hours over two weekends and a few evenings. Does this sound reasonable? Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance. jeff :-j Jeff Konrade-Helm Director of Communications and Marketing Autism Society of Colorado 701 S. Logan St.; Suite 103 Denver, CO 80209-4169 720.214.0794 720.274.2744 - fax [EMAIL PROTECTED] www.autismcolorado.org ---------------------------------------- I am using the free version of SPAMfighter for private users. It has removed 5902 spam emails to date. Paying users do not have this message in their emails. Try www.SPAMfighter.com for free now! -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Anti-Virus. Version: 7.0.300 / Virus Database: 265.8.2 - Release Date: 1/28/2005 _______________________________________________ Asterisk-Users mailing list [email protected] http://lists.digium.com/mailman/listinfo/asterisk-users To UNSUBSCRIBE or update options visit: http://lists.digium.com/mailman/listinfo/asterisk-users
