Understanding the Two Main Types of Paginglink to this section
Most business environments utilize a combination of these two paging methods to manage internal communications:
- Overhead Paging: A system that connects your phone system to an external amplifier and speaker network. It is designed for large areas like warehouses, retail floors, or parking lots where individual desk phones aren't practical.
- Group Paging: A feature that allows you to broadcast audio through the built-in speakers of specific desk phones (e.g., "Page the Sales Team"). This uses IP multicast technology to reach multiple extensions simultaneously.
How Overhead Paging Workslink to this section
Overhead paging bridges the gap between digital phone systems and analog speaker hardware.
- The Trigger: A user dials a specific extension or enters a paging code on their office phone.
- The Interface: The signal passes through an Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA), such as a Grandstream or AudioCodes device, which converts the digital signal to analog.
- The Broadcast: The ATA connects to a paging controller or amplifier, which sends the audio through ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted speakers.
Key Benefits of Modern Paging Systemslink to this section
- Emergency Alerts: Immediate broadcasting for safety drills, weather alerts, or security lockdowns.
- Zone Management: The ability to page specific areas (e.g., just the "Loading Dock") without disturbing the entire office.
Hardware Integration: Compatibility with existing analog "tannoy" systems using VoIP-to-analog converters. - Hands-Free Communication: Recipients hear the message automatically without needing to "pick up" a call.
8x8 Overhead Paging Requirementslink to this section
To implement overhead paging within an 8x8 cloud communications environment, you typically need:
- Dedicated License: A specific service license (like a Lobby or higher license) for the paging extension.
- ATA Device: An FXS Analog Telephone Adapter to connect the 8x8 cloud to your physical amplifier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)link to this section
What is the difference between paging and intercom?
Paging is one-way communication (broadcast only), whereas an intercom allows for two-way conversation (talk-back).
Can I page multiple locations at once?
Yes. Modern systems like 8x8 allow for "Zone Paging," where you can broadcast to a single building, a specific floor, or multiple remote locations simultaneously.
Does paging work on mobile phones?
While you can initiate a page from a mobile app by dialing the paging extension, mobile phones generally do not receive group pages like a desk phone speaker would.
What hardware is needed for overhead paging?
You will need an amplifier, speakers, and a VoIP-to-analog gateway (ATA). For IP-based systems, you can use specialized IP speakers that connect directly to your network.
Is group paging secure?
Yes. Most systems allow administrators to restrict who has the "permission to page" and can even require a PIN code before a broadcast begins.
