Anthony’s Ramblings

I’m debating putting this server, a bunch of computer parts, and my new Dell Dimension 8400 up on eBay to buy a Power Macintosh. I really don’t use this server for much…every now-and-then I’ll put files up for people to download (which is handy because then I don’t have to worry about what I do with my computer). It also does my blog, but I really don’t post much here…and could live without it no problem. I don’t have enough readers/people interested in my life to continue this blog. The Dual 2 GHz is cheaper now that the Dual 2.7 was released…I configured one that I would be content with and it cost $1,900…considerably less than the last time I did it. I want one…but at the same time I want to keep my Dell…BLEH!

http://www.911voip.org/

It never occurred to me that Voice Over IP solutions may hinder your ability to connect to the proper 911 center, if you dialed the number. Your typical analog telephone solution would normally report your telephone number to the dispacher, which would then allow them to look up your location. With VoIP solutions, you don’t really have a direct “line” like you do with analog telephone solutions, and your incoming/outgoing calls are put into a “pool” at your VoIP service provider…so when you’re receiving or dialing out, you’re using a random available telephone line (whatever is available at the time of the call..it’s sort-of like PBX systems at large businesses), which wouldn’t report the correct number for you at the 911 dispatch center. It could even lead to you being routed wrong. There are solutions around this. Check out the link I have above, or click here (they’re the same link).

It never occurred to me. I heard that Vonage got sued because they blocked a 911 call. This is a serious limitation in the VoIP technology. Not that I’ve ever had to place a 911 call, but if I ever had to, I would want it to go flawless. Apparently there are temporary solutions for people with VoIP. 1) Sign up for the emergency services plan, if available, and 2) Make sure you tell the dispatcher your full address, inculding city and state, so they can re-route you if needed.