Recommend small PBX or Key system 4 non-profit 6

[Toni269]

A non-profit business is looking for a small phone system that can handle up to 7-8 extensions, (analog). They would like the ability to have a small auto attendant with the option to restrict long distance on at least two lines (or extensions). Does anyone know of an inexpensive product that would be a solution for them? Also do you know what the approximate cost (used or new) would be to purchase? Thank you in advance for your help! Toni

 

[skip555]

you might want to look at refurb lucent/avaya partner. they are avilaible used/refurbished very resonable.

if you are non profit call around and talk to interconnects and see if they have some used equipment they can donate. we have doanted used systems to local boys club and food bank in the past.

 

[RLHarris]

Avaya will charge you for a new licensing fee if you buy their refurbished equipment. That's not necessarily bad, but you should consider the total cost of a refurb system, including paying for maintenance up front if there is no Mfr warranty.

I would recommend a Comdial DX-80 system with an optional auto attendant card.

Don't know the exact cost, but there are lots of dealers so it should be competitive. Robert Harris

http://www.communicationsadvantage.com

 

[skip555]

Avaya will charge you for a new licensing fee if you buy their refurbished equipment. That's not necessarily bad, but you should consider the total cost of a refurb system, including paying for maintenance up front if there is no Mfr warranty.

HUH ????

we sell a lot of refurb partner and have never paid avaya a cent nor have I heard of others being charged a licensing fee.

 

[RLHarris]

I just double-checked, and Avaya's standard Terms and Conditions on the back of the Purchase Agreement state (Verbatim):

"D. If the equipment purchased hereunder is sold or assigned to another party, Avaya requires that the new owner
or assignee execute a new software license and pay the then current software license fee".

So there is no way to legitimately get the system free, even if someone donates it to you.
Robert Harris

http://www.communicationsadvantage.com

 

[Bobg1]

Robert,
That is very true with products such as the Definity.
I don't think its the same with fixed config equip like a partner.

 

[skip555]

That is very true with products such as the Definity.
I don't think its the same with fixed config equip like a partner.

exactly

I rember reading once where lucent was trying to charge a tv station 25,000 for the password to the switch when the station decided to let someone else do the maintance.

back to the question at hand I still feel partner would do the job nicley and the equipment is availble refurbed at very nice prices .

 

[RLHarris]

It is the large enterprise sized systems like the Definity. I stand corrected. Robert Harris

http://www.communicationsadvantage.com

 

[Toni269]

Thank you all for your help, we will be looking into all of your suggestions for our project. Your suggestions were very helpful!!! *

Toni

 

[MattWray]

You could also look into a Panasonic. They are very inexpensive ($500 for 3 co's and 8 ext), and just about as versatile as a Partner. The VM for it runs about a grand, I believe. Thanks,

Matt Wray

http://www.netcomtec.com

http://www.total-tec.com

 

[Bobg1]

Toni
Something to consider for such a small group.
You will still need to have phone lines from a local telco.
You might want to check and see what they have available as
far as centrex or similar services. I have seen where with a small group centrex can end up being less expensive than just having the lines required for a small pbx.

 

[vaoldschl]

To Bobg1's suggestion: Centrex can be quite economical but remember this is because you are tied to a contract with cancellation penalties should you ever need to change service. I just worked with getting an inexpensive system into a non-profit that got burned on a three year Centrex deal when their grant fell through and they had to downsize.

I think both a refurb Partner from a reputable source or the Panasonic is a good choice. I installed a Panasonic with four CO lines and three extensions, full automated attendant and toll restriction recently for a total cost of under $1500 labor included. Just be sure to shop your equipment cost, vendor prices vary greatly.

 

[executone]

I do not see Norstar system mentioned. On the secondary market it is very affordable and alot of Technicians that know how to work on it. You can also learn to maintain the system yourself.

I would check your local dealers first, for used equipment they could donate. We have given them to customers before and just pay for install costs.(usually misc. parts and labor)

Good Luck!!