[Horsepower]

Hello. I am a complete noob to this VOIP thing but I am experienced with computers. I am looking for hardware(inexpensive cordless IP phones or inexpensive ATA adapters) that are compatible with AOL's AIM phoneline service. I don't need anything with a bunch of features I'll probably never use. It can connect either via ethernet or USB(I have a server thats is always on). The only real requirements I guess I have are the device needs to be inexpensive(not poor quality), lets say about $50 U.S. or less and the thing just has to work right. I don't feel like fighting with something to make it work. Any ideas? Thanks.

EDIT: Linksys suggested I try the PAP2T ATA adapter they offer. Any thoughts on this?

[hwittenb]

Originally Posted by Horsepower

Linksys suggested I try the PAP2T ATA adapter they offer. Any thoughts on this?

The PAP2T is a good general purpose analog telephone adapter, however it uses the industry standard SIP protocol for voip communications. It is my understanding that AOL's AIM phoneline uses AOL's proprietary protocol and would therefore not be able to directly communicate with the PAP2T.

Skype uses a proprietary protocol and due to its user volume (and market potential) has spawned a series of hardware devices specifically engineered to work with Skype. I would believe AOL's AIM phoneline would be in a similiar special purpose hardware category.

[Horsepower]

Ok, well that's makes for easy decisions now doesn't it? Thanks for the reply.

[AIMPLinfo]

One option is to use the AIM Phoneline store link Shop for AIM Phoneline Gear

The devices listed there have been tested with AIM Phoneline and proven to work .. the links will take you out to external links hosted by mVox and Plantronics.

I hope you find something that works for you.

~ from a member of the AIM Phoneline team

[Horsepower]

Well unfortunately so far there is only two devices in that shop: A headset and a speakerphone. I want a cordless phone. I like the service but unless AOL gets more hardware for their service real soon, I'm going to consider other providers. It's not close to being a landline replacement if I have to be tied to my computer to use it.

[eric]

I haven't tried the AIM Phoneline, but you might want to look at bluetooth devices to get the wireless functionality.