Help - How difficult is it to program a Partner II or Partner R6?

[tgallo]

I am fairly technical, background in Layer 3 IP and Layer 2 (frame relay and ATM).

Current Phone system:
Partner II, Processor R3.1, mix of 4 modules: 206 R3.0, 206EC R3.1, 206EC R3.1, 206 R4.1

4 phone lines, 22 extensions, no voice mail.

Problem: Processor has some features gone bad. considering purchasing a refurb of the same thing.

#1 If I were to purchase a refurb Partner II Processor R3.1, How difficult and how long would it take to program it?

#2 There is a company that charges $65 per hour to assist over the phone in installing and programming...Anyone out there want to make some money on the side helping me over the phone for less than that?

#3 Should I consider purchasing a Partner ACS R6 Processor instead? Will this work with the current expansion cards?

I would love to figure out how to maintain and program this using the software GUI on the PC. Willing to pay for over the phone assistance.

Thanks a bunch for the help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[itpphoneguy]

Hi tgallo,
I would go for an R6 or R7 proc. In your place, I would have someone come in to do this work. All the newer processors will recognise the 206 cards, so that is not an issue. Consider buying the newer carrier so you don't cook the new card and extend the life of the old cards.
While you may be comfortable with your gear, you should have someone familiar with Partners set up your system. You can learn by watching. While this may cost more, it's less than a course and you are learning.
Failing that, and if cost is an overriding concern, then do it the hard way. Purchase a card off ebay and pay per hour for phone support. I have a few customers that do it that way. They have the worst systems, both in installation and in programming. What can I say?
-Chris