Polycom announces a new model in its SoundPoint IP desktop phone line, the SoundPoint IP 560. Recognizing that more enterprises are deploying Gigabit Ethernet networking infrastructures to deliver new productivity enhancing applications that require more bandwidth, the new SoundPoint IP 560 enables full GigE data transmission between the network and an end-user's computer, enabling a single IP connection to support the desktop. In combination with Polycom HD Voice technology, the SoundPoint IP 560 is the ideal solution for enterprises that demand the best call experience and are either deploying or considering deploying advanced applications requiring a high-bandwidth network infrastructure.

In addition to its GigE support, the SoundPoint IP 560 delivers a clear and unrivaled lifelike audio experience with Polycom's high definition voice technology -- Polycom HD Voice. A key component of HD Voice is the use of a standard wideband voice codec (ITU standard G.722), which enables high definition voice transmission. As adoption of wideband voice accelerates, enterprises benefit most by investing in IP endpoint that support G.722 wideband calls. Polycom HD Voice also includes its patented Acoustic Clarity Technology which provides market leading noise reduction, echo cancellation and full duplex speakerphone capability.

In a typical office installation, a network cable runs from the wall jack to the IP phone and a second network cable runs from the IP phone to the PC. The speed of the network connection to the PC is limited by the fastest speed that the IP phone supports. In a GigE environment, the phone must support GigE switching at full line rate in order for the PC to have the benefit of full GigE connectivity. The SoundPoint IP 560 features a dual-port GigE switch that eliminates any network bottleneck between the edge switch and the PC.

Additional Product Features

The SoundPoint IP 560 has four-lines and includes advanced SIP features and capabilities, such as shared call/bridge line appearance, busy lamp field, presence, text messaging, and buddy lists. It includes an integrated XHTML micro-browser that enables users to take advantage of productivity-enhancing Web-based applications.

The new phone has been tested and certified to deliver comprehensive interoperability and extensive feature support with Polycom's growing list of over 25 SIP-based call control platform partners including 3Com, BroadSoft, Digium, Interactive Intelligence, Sylantro, and other Polycom VoIP Interoperability Partners. For more information on the Polycom VIP Program, visit www.polycom.com/vip.

Pricing and Availability

The Polycom SoundPoint IP 560 is planned to be available in North America, Europe and most of Asia-Pac this month through Polycom certified channel partners for a MSRP of U.S. $469. For more information about the SoundPoint IP 560, please visit the Polycom web site at www.polycom.com/voip.