Linksys debuts cordless Skype VoIP handset

A new cordless VoIP handset using a PC running Skype as its base station will reach stores next week. According to Linksys, the CIT200 allows users to make VoIP phone calls as easily as today's cordless handsets make conventional landline calls. The device uses DECT wireless, which Linksys says eliminates interference with 2.4GHz cordless phones and other networking devices.

The CIT200 Internet Telephony Kit includes a handset, a charger, and a USB base station that plugs into a computer's USB port. The handset can read and display callers' Skype contact list on its built-in illuminated display, letting callers know which of their Skype contacts are online and ready to be called, Linksys says.

The handset also supports SkypeOut, SkypeIn, and Skype Voicemail -- Skype's premium services that let callers make and receive calls to conventional landline phones and cell phones -- and can send and receive messages up to 10 minutes long, according to Linksys.

Works with a PC

The device is used in conjunction with a PC. The DECT wireless radio (shown on the right) plugs into a USB port on the PC. Minimum requirements for the user's PC include:

* 400 MHz processor
* 128 MB RAM
* Internet connection (DSL/cable/etc.)
* One available USB port
* Skype application (included), installed on the PC
* CD-ROM drive

Currently the software requires the use of Windows XP or 2000, and a Mac OS X version is in process. Presumably, a Linux version will follow in short order.

Features and specs

CIT200 features and functions, according to LinkSys, include:

* Supports call waiting
* Mute button
* Three available ring tones
* Intercom function between multiple handsets
* Built-in speakerphone
* Color LCD panel
* Up to 120 hour standby time and 10 hour talk time
* Hold Button
* Caller ID
* Address Book that supports up 120 contacts
* Ringer -- Off/On switch
* Navigation button for screen
* Utilizes voice encryption for high security
* Headset jack for connecting a headset
* Single base station supports up to four additional DECT based phones
* Handset locater button on USB base station
* Handset is light and comfortable to use (4.23 oz/ 0.12kg)


According to DECTweb.com, "DECT is a digital wireless technology which originated in Europe, but is now being adopted increasingly worldwide, for cordless telephones, wireless offices and even wireless telephone lines to the home. The younger brother of GSM - Global System for Mobile -- it is by contrast a radio access technology, rather than a comprehensive system architecture; DECT has been designed and specified to interwork with many other types of network, such as the PSTN (conventional telephone networks), ISDN (new digital and data phone networks), GSM (mobile phone networks) and more."

Availability

The CIT200 will be available beginning October 17th from more than 3,000 online and retail outlets throughout North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, according to Linksys, for around $130.