Avaya Current Software/Version Question and Phone Compatibility 4

[bjuser]

Hello, first I would like to introduce myself. Recently moved into a new position where I am now managing our Avaya Phone System. I have years of Windows Server administration, but new to Avaya Server Administration.

We currently have a lot of Avaya 5610SW IP phones and are looking to purchase some more phones. I know we are on an old version of IP Office and hardware is older, so I am wanting to check on compatibility of some phones with our current system and a little confused with all the Version Numbers, Release, numbers and vice versa. Hoping someone can put it plain and simple for me.

If I connect to our IP Office System Controller Unit, it is IP 412 and the current firmware is 4.1(12).
We then have 1 module present - Type Phone 16 V2 - Current Firmware: 6.1 (12)
Our IP Office Manager Software is 6.1 (12)

We currently have these phones here:

http://www.metrolinedirect.com/56ipte7.html

and I was told by a reseller that these are now the replacements:

http://www.metrolinedirect.com/avaya-1608-i-ip-phone-700458532.html

We could purchase more 5610SW refurbs, but since they are so old they actually have gone up in price.
On the 1608-I, it says compatible with IP Office R6.0. I am assuming R stands for release 6.0, but how does that correspond with the version and information I have posted above? I really do appreciate any help. I have used your forums a lot already to help troubleshoot Avaya issues I have already come across.

 

[AndrePa]

You could update your IP office to R5(26), this would be a free upgrade.
You could then use 1608 phones such as

http://www.metrolinedirect.com/avaya1608.html

If You want the current 1608I phones such as

http://www.metrolinedirect.com/56ipte7.html,

then You would have to upgrade to R6(18), which I believe is the highest IP412 can go. You would also need to purchase a large upgrade licence, and you would need IP endpoint licences too.
You probably would bee better off with a new IP500v2 at this point, due to the age of 412.

I'm not sure if metroline is an Avaya BP anymore, at one time they were, then they were not. I haven't delt with them in a long time, so I'm not sure, but they should have mentioned the licence upgade(s) needed for the 1608I phones You inquired about.
So if You go for the R6 upgrade/500v2, You should go with an Avaya BP. You will avoid guesswork, time spent trying DIY, and installation will be smooth!

 

[tlpeter]

AndrePa, the 16xx-i are supported on 5.0.26 too.
Going to 6.0 is just a marketing strategy to sell more upgrade licenses.


BAZINGA!

I'm not insane, my mother had me tested!

 

[IPGuru]

Indeed have the firmware upgraded to V5.0.26
this will support 16XXi handsets (support was added at 5.0.22 but the docs not updated)

A Maintenance contract is essential, not a Luxury.
Do things on the cheap & it will cost you dear

 

[bjuser]

Wow, thank you for the answers. That's exactly that I was wanting to know. Appreciate the assistance. Now I am starting to have more understanding and appreciation of what our previous telecommunications guy dealt with on a daily basis