VoIP phone compatability

[staabj]

We have a 61c that we are thinking about upgrading to 81c/CS1000M. We will be incorporating infrastructure from part of the building which is currently VoIP capable through one of the local providers. The only issue we have is that they are using CISCO IP Phones Series 7960. According to NORTEL, these sets need to be changed out since NORTEL does not play nice with CISCO phones. Is there someone out there that can weigh in on this, or is NORTEL simply trying to sell us another phone?

Appreciate all feedback
John

 

[Dougo123]

Unless a cisco phone had the same exact template as a nortel ip phone you could'nt even program it on the 81

 

[gwebster]

Cisco phones and Nortel phones use different proprietary protocols. A Nortel phone cannot connect to a CCM. A Cisco phone cannot connect to a CS 1000.

 

[staabj]

Ok, thanks. Since this is my first time working with VoIP, I wasn't sure and didn't want to spend money needlessly and change phones just to be changing them!

Thanks again for the tips.
John