What Is A PABX System?

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A PABX system is considered to be an upgraded version of Private Branch Exchange (PBX) system. These terms have become quite synonymous. As organizations continue to grow, they require more telephones for providing support to teams, suppliers, and customers. When it comes to installing and maintaining extra lines, the cost can be quite high. This is where a PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange) system comes into place. It has become a popular alternative. Logitech Group Tanzania offers the best PABX system in the region.

The system powers many lines of access for less and only uses few connections. A PABX system is also known as a PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network). Many companies are using a PABX system for handling a high volume of outgoing and internal calls. Video Conferencing Tanzania provides the optimal video conferencing system.

 

So What Is A PABX System?

In the simplest of words, a PABX system is a business solution that organizations use to deal with many lines needed for outside and in-house calls. It allows organizations to make use of just a single access number that comes with many extensions. This makes it a lot cheaper unlike most landlines that are linked to the public network. Companies that use either a PABX or PBX system act like a telephone exchange. The switching tasks that are required for connecting calls between extensions are automated by the PABX system. On the other hand, traditional PBX systems required human switchboard operators for connecting to the phone users.

Each device that is connected to the exchange in the PABX system has an extension number. The devices include fax machines, computer modems, and desk phones. The PABX system tends to be administered and owned by the company that hosts it. The majority of large organizations can call centers make use of a PABX system. Some of the common features include call transfer, call hold, call conferencing, and auto attendant.

 

What Makes PABX Different From PBX?

PABX and PBX are synonymous since they are both a switching system. However, it does not mean that they are the same. A PABX system is an improved version of the PBX system. A Private Branch Exchange or PBX for short is a telephone network that is used, administered, and owned by an organization. It requires the use of human operators for managing the switchboards for facilitating telephone exchange. Switchboard operators would need to use their hands for plugging the wires so that the call circuit would close. PABX systems are modern and use computers for automating the switching process.

 

So How Does A PABX System Work?

The PABX system works in a similar way as a mini version of public telephone exchange. It has both the hardware and software needed for the exchange. It includes switches, adapters, hubs, modems, fax machines, routers, and telephone units. When a company uses a PABX, it can run its own internal phone network by making use of the local extension numbers. The extensions correspond with the specific devices and phones that are used in the organization. The best thing about the system is that it simplifies the entire internal phone communication process. Thus, in-house calls would never have to go beyond the local network. With just a touch of a button, in-house connections can be made.

The PABX also greets incoming calls using a recorded message. The greeting is known as IVR (Interactive Voice Response). The recorded message would suggest the caller to dial the desired number to reach the right department. Incoming calls are routed by the PABX based on the extension number or code. The system connects with the public telephone exchange for outgoing calls.

 

PBX Systems with VOIP

PBX systems that are VOIP-based tend to be a lot better. They offer a limitless number of extensions or lines. Besides, multimedia communications are allowed by the internet protocol. The IP PABX/PBX system can be built in many ways. Two of the most common ways are mentioned below.

  • Upgrade the existing landline telephone system. The existing hardware and phone numbers can be integrated through PBX SIP Trunking.
  • Starting from the ground up. A hosted IP-based system is a lot better and tends to be more affordable.

An internet connection is used by both the methods for improving business telephony. The methods use Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) for processing different types of data.

 

Standard Features of a PABX System

With a PAB system, an organization can use more phone units as compared to the physical phone lines. Extension numbers need to be assigned to each telephone unit by the company. In addition to this, the users benefit from free internal calls. The following features are common among most PABX systems.

  • Automatic Ring Back: It allows users to pre-dial busy phone lines and as soon as the line gets free, they would receive a ring back.
  • Auto Attendant: The system provides a digital receptionist that automatically connects the callers to their desired extension number by using a simple menu.
  • Call Parking: It allows the users to place outgoing calls on hold in a telephone unit. Then, they get to continue the conversation with another device.
  • Call Forwarding: It lets the admin route the incoming calls depending on the criteria.
  • Call Queuing: It allows the staff to create their own system for routing the calls.
  • Call Pick-Up: Staff can answer the incoming call for the recipient.
  • Call Recording: Is used for recording the call for training, monitoring, documentation, legal, or any other purpose.
  • Call Waiting: Users get to handle multiple ongoing calls simultaneously.
  • Call Transfer: Enables users to hand off live calls to another extension or user.
  • Do Not Disturb: Incoming calls to a specific extension are blocked.
  • Voicemail: Allows callers to leave a voicemail message.

 

Conclusion

A PABX system provides businesses with greater flexibility and control over their communication processes. It is ideal for internal collaboration and receiving outside calls.