Customers can access the voice service through the Teams client on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, or a stand-alone IP Phone device.

Most Windows or macOS computers have an audio card with microphone and speaker capabilities, and your existing computer might be sufficient for calls. Depending on how you use Teams, you will likely prefer an additional device such as a headset or an IP Phone. We suggest using, at minimum, a USB headset rather than the built-in microphone and speakers; the user experience is greatly improved by doing so.

Where to Buy

Tested and approved devices may be purchased by units via iBuy or other campus approved methods for purchasing equipment. The CDW punchout in iBuy has a section named "Yealink Standards," which has the currently supported IP phones for sale at preferred pricing.

Who Does the Installation?

Support for Teams phone devices is handled primarily by the local unit IT Professionals, i.e. IT Partners @ Gies. Technology Services provides support for the network connectivity of stand-alone IP phones. Configuration and troubleshooting of IP phones or USB phone devices (aka personal peripherals) is handled by local IT Professionals.

Supported USB and Personal Peripherals

Teams USB and Personal Peripherals connect to your computer and interact with the Teams client software. The device you choose should be compatible your current operating system.  A full list of Teams Certified USB and personal peripherals can be found here.

Apple macOS support of USB devices is limited. Please contact the Help Desk to verify Mac compatibility before purchasing.

Supported IP Phones

An IP Phone is a standalone device that does not require a computer in order to make and receive phone calls.  A limited selection of Teams IP Phones are supported by Technology Services because they must be compatible with the campus' network management and E911 systems. (Reference: Campus Administrative Manual, Section V-A-5, "9-1-1 Service As Used For Emergency Response")  Only IP Phone models specifically listed below should be used and will be supported by Technology Services.  They have been tested for compatibility with our E911 system and have the relevant network options enabled on the voice networks.

IT Partner @ Gies maintains a Phone Recommendation list here. These recommended devices are also compatible with Microsoft Teams and support E-911:

Recommended IP Phones:

• Yealink MP54 Entry-level VoIP Phone (CDW # 6499856 - $178.28)
• Yealink MP58 High-end VoIP Phone (CDW # 6495197 - $236.26)
• Yealink MP58 High-end VoIP Phone with Wireless Handset (CDW # 6495198 - $275.99)
• Yealink CP960 Conference Phone (CDW # 5151009 - $445.53)
• Yealink CP960 Conference Phone with Wireless Microphone (CDW # 5325684 - $579.70)

Accessories for Desk and Conference Phones: