Gizmo5 is a service that allows you to inexpensively make calls over the internet using easy-to-use software that can be installed on your computer (Windows, Mac OS X or Linux), certain mobile phones, and internet tablets. Along with standard phone functions such as local number dialing, voicemail, and Caller ID Gizmo5 also provides powerful features such as instant messaging, group chat, call recording and even video calling.
Yes. Gizmo5 uses advanced VoIP technology to allow you to talk to anyone around the world. Unlike other VoIP services, Gizmo5 does not "lock in" its users because it doesn't use a proprietary protocol. Gizmo5 uses Open SIP Peering standards that allows any SIP-compliant device to use the service. Simply put, it means that Gizmo5 uses a common "language" that allows their software to talk to any other internet calling service or software that uses the same language.
Virtual PBX takes incoming calls from a potential customer or client and then makes a call to a SIP phone number supplied by Gizmo5. The two calls are then seamlessly connected while the Virtual PBX stays in the background waiting to see if the call ends or needs to be transferred.
SIP is an acronym for Session Initiation Protocol. In simplest terms, it is an internationally accepted standard that allows internet phones to send calls back and forth. You can think of it as the "language" of the VoIP world. Gizmo5 uses a version of SIP that is widely used by many phone and software vendors. All Gizmo5 users are provided with an 11-digit SIP account number that functions just like a phone number. Gizmo5 SIP numbers are unique utilize this standard format: 1-747-###-####.
Yes. You can purchase Gizmo5 CallIn numbers for any of 28+ countries throughout the world for as little as $3 per month per number.
Once you've signed up for the Virtual PBX service all you need to receive calls using Gizmo5 is the client software for Windows, Mac OS X, Linux or select mobile phones. The sofware is free and can be downloaded below.
If you intend to take calls from your computer you might also consider a headset or speakerphone to ehance your call quality. There are a multitude of such accessories available through any number of internt-based retailers.
Gizmo5 gives you the ability to use almost any phone you'd like as long as it is SIP-compliant including Wi-Fi phones that work in conjunction with your wireless modem or router.
Alternatively, you can use any standard phone in conjunction with a SIP-compliant analog telephone adapter, also known as an ATA.
When you create a Gizmo5 account you're automatically given a SIP account number. Simply enter this number into the Contact Phone Numbers table located on the Call Routing screen of your Virtual PBX. Here's how:
You can locate your Gizmo5 phone number by accessing My Profile... from your Gizmo5 client. My Profile is located under the Edit menu.
The most common cause of a bi-directional audio issue (no sound or one-way sound) is due to a mis-configured Firewall/NAT/Router (gateway device). To troubleshoot this problem please read the following Gizmo5 knowledgebase entry: [ Configuring Your Gateway Device ]
While the Gizmo5 client allows a single person to take advantage of the cost savings of internet calling, Gizmo5 Business allows an entire company to do the same thing. Business owners or administrators can add as many individual employees to a "corporate" account as needed and each employee is supplied with their own SIP number. Calling costs can be controlled on an individual basis or subtracted from a pool of minutes that are purchased for the entire company. Gizmo5 Business also provides a web portal that facilitates easy administration of the account and the purchase of additional call minutes on the account.
