sundance-communications.com/forum Forums General General Telephone & Systems Information Is this a bad idea?

Hey all!

I really want to get into learning some of the phone systems you guys install.

Do you think it would be a good idea to purchase one, learn it, and even maybe sell it later?

If so, what do you recommend? I know there are many makes and models, but the only PBX I have ever worked with is Asterisk open-source PBX software for linux--so I will need a "beginner rig," if I may.

Thanks a lot.

Oof, I'd say you need to hook up with a good interconnect. You're going to probably have to start out pulling cable, so be prepared for the dirty work. Youse gotta pay your dues. John C. (Not Garand)

What? No! Come back to the Dark Side!

Hooking up with an Interconnect or a smaller company that sells something you are interested in is probably the way to go.

I wouldn't expect to be much more then a grunt for a while tho

Also wouldn't hurt to call their references so you can make sure you are learning from a company that "does it right". Always hard to break bad habits.

The trend that I am starting to notice is that nearly all manufacturers are now offering the new breed of hybrid systems, even the little stuff. Today's hybrids are TDM and IP compatible.

One contender that started out as 100% IP has had a change of heart and is now offering a system that is IP-based, yet it supports about a dozen or two different TDM phone models from at least two different manufacturers. What a great idea. Most IP system manufacturers only focus on IP and seem to forget about providing existing customers with the ability to make a gradual transition, if they ever transition to IP at all.

This is a good time to get into the business so that you can utilize your current strengths while learning TDM system technology. It's a win-win situation for you. My vote is yes.

Thanks for the responses!

There really isnt much around here for me to choose from. I live in a small area, but there is a need for a phone guy.

I'm sure there are some around (not local though...maybe plattsburgh, albany, saratoga) but I never see them.

If you have the cash it's not a bad idea. Phone systems aren't the cheapest toys to play with ya know.

I can't speak for other manufacturers but Avaya is excellent about freely available documentation for their systems.

Hooking up with a company isn't a bad idea either if you need something to do on a daily basis.

Right now I'm working for a construction company...well...4 years now and I DONT LIKE IT THAT MUCH.

I'm trying to get out of it but it seems I cant find another decent job without moving.

I know where you are- gotta be something in Albany. At any rate I wouldn't quit your day job, it does pay the bills. Start doing this on the side.

As far as learning hands on, there is plenty of used stuff out there cheap. Partner for instance. It is a tremendously popular system. Get yourself an old ACS and a few 18Ds, learn to program it and you will know 95% of all partner releases. Legend (you won't see it as much) is tougher but all releases are built on the one before it. All the documentation you need for both is available from Avaya on their site.

I'm sure other guys who are familiar with other systems can give you similar recommendations as to what you are likely to see. Around here it's Partner or something Panasonic mostly and up by you I'll bet nearly everything is going to be small Mom and Pop kind of stuff unless you get into lodging.

Keep in mind also that you don't have to know or work on everything out there to make money.

-Hal

Have you thought about just a small move? We have members here that are in your area who might be able to offer you a junior position.

Thanks for all the responses..they were great.

Ed, I replied to your PM.. Thanks a bunch!