Hello. After reading the 7.20 manual, I found out that the new features of this version (compatible with VSX and FV only) over 7.11 are the conference bridge and an additional configuration for user and administrator priviledges. Anyone to confirm it?
Doesn't seem too great of an advancement. I found the link of a third party press release here: http://www.daitcs.com/PressReleaseNewFortiVoiceProducts/tabid/320/Default.aspx It appears that you can conference up to 8 people. There are free conferencing call services these days that can go up to around 90+ people. If you conference up to 8 people, you'd tie most of the lines up. The spec sheet of the FortiVoice is pretty much identical to the TS system, minus the new outer cover: http://www.fortivoice.com/sites/default/files/productdatasheets/FortiVoice_phone_systems.pdf
Yes, actually the specs are the same a of the VSX, except for the new case, and you are right, 7.20 didn't introduce big advancement. By the way, how VSX owners can upgrade it? Just to see if there is any file around...
I like the bold shape of the new case but I don't like the fact that they took out the 4 analog line LED lights and power button. The power button is useful for a quick manual restart without having to go all the way to the back reset button. The 4 line LEDs are also useful for me as I work next to the TS and don't use their proprietary phones--helps me to see which line the call is coming from at times.
I would like to get real improvements. Hopefully they will enroll a new version like 8 with more flexibility......right now VS owners don't have reasons to upgrade their systems.....
If FortiVoice only does modest improvements, that could prove detrimental to their business--since if not enough people buy and/or upgrade, their business model/strategy would be in jeopardy. This would be bad for them if they discontinue their line and for potential upgraders since we may not have a TS/FV system in years to come. TS users are in general more sophisticated business users on a smaller scale. I don't think we are going to be overly impressed with a new case as opposed to a much better system.
I had the opportunity to get a VSX system at a very low price (used). I need it for my US branch. As now I have a NLS I am not using, one CVA I am using for my home (6.50), 2 VS (7.11) for my Italian branch, then now the VSX (7.20?). I still have to check how to get the upgrades (I might have to buy Forticare)....
Did it come with 7.20 installed? Do you also have a separate copy of 7.20? If 7.20, did they change the software name completely to FortiVoice instead of Talkswitch?
I still have to receive it. As soon as I will get it I will let you know. In the meantime I sent to Fortinet support a question about how I can get 7.20 upgrade for my new VSX, as I bought it used and I am sure it will not come with this software version.
For those of you wanting to upgrade to the VSX system, there is a sale right now for the 48vsx for only $616 (new) + $5 shipping. Probably will last only for 2 days. http://www.erwincomp.com/talkswitch-48vsx-talkswitch-ct-ts001-148003.html#.ULE_kmenmFw I was speaking to a TS (now FortiVoice) rep and the VSX was manufactured between January 2012 and ended its line in August of 2012 (lasted all but 8 months) in favor of the FortiVoice systems. Seems like the engine on the VSX and FV systems are pretty much the same, however, what appears as slight differences (beyond the casing) in the LEDs (VSX has 5 and FV has 2) behind the scenes posed quite a challenge in programming compatibility between the two virtually identical systems. Because of that, it is likely that the VSX will be lose support (EOL) sooner than the FV systems. Don't know when that will be but seeing how quickly FortiVoice dropped production for the VSX, I would guess that it would be sooner than later. The price is great but like some of you, I'm hesitant to take the plunge since I do have a great VS system. For those who don't have a Talkswitch system yet, at this price, it is good. BTW...I have no business connections to this promotion. If you do buy it, come back and let us know how you like the VSX.
