NEW GADGETS

Vonage

by Roger Barnette

While not technically a gadget, but rather an Internet Appliance, I have really enjoyed my Vonage telephone service.   Vonage is a company that uses VoIP (voice over IP) technology to move your phone service off those two wires running to your house from Bellsouth, and converts it to an Internet-based service that is potentially liberated from public utility service.

In short, I have disconnected the wires that used to run to my house, and my house phones now all run through a device provided by Vonage that is connected to my Comcast cable modem.

If you are interested in getting a deal from them, please send me an email and I will make a referral to you that should save us both some money.   Basically, prospective Vonage users sign up on their website and order the voice modem.   I have recently learned that you may also purchase a Vonage enabled router from Circuit City (http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/productDetail.do?oid=111263&c=1 ), and simplify your setup significantly.   It should almost be plug-and-play, er talk.

I would be glad to help if you have any problems with installation.   If you have any questions, please call us right away.