What is TekTalk?
TekTalk is a VoIP phone service. VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. VoIP works by sending voice information in digital form over the internet rather than in the traditional circuit-committed protocols of the public switched telephone network (PSTN). This means you need an Internet connection and electricity for the service. If any of these are having problems, it directly impacts your phone. Please keep this in mind.
How does it work?
- A TekTalk account.
- An operational high speed internet connection with an Ethernet cable.
- Minimum Speed: 1Mbps download and 1Mbps upload.
- An ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter) and a phone.
- OR
- A softphone program with a microphone and speakers or a headset. Or a personal SIP phone system.
Do I have to use your internet?
No! You can use any Internet provider with TekTalk. Keep in mind our troubleshooting is limited as we cannot troubleshoot any blocks that provider may have or features like port forwarding to ensure TekTalk will work properly.
Do you provide the phone?
No, we only sell an Grandstream ATA for our service. You will need your own phone system. Only 1 handset/phone can be plugged into the ATA. Since most cordless phones come with multiple cordless handsets, you can have as many cordless handsets as your base will support.
With alarm systems, medic alerts, or door buzzers?
We do not guarantee compatibility with any of these services. You should check with your provider to ensure compatibility with SIP based VoIP service if they rely on any of these services. Along with any additional details they need to change if they are.
Can I use a Fax machine with TekTalk?
We do not recommend faxing with TekTalk at this time as the service is intended for use. Testing has revealed it does not operate reliably. The internet connection has to be very good, with and no packet loss. For better fax performance, at the expense of reduce quality we can make a change to your TekTalk service.
Can I use my home wiring?
We do not support putting TekTalk through internal wiring. If you choose to do this you may, but we do not support or provide guidance on doing so. This also voids any warranty on the ATA if it is damaged in the process.
Is the Grandstream Wireless?
There are no wireless abilities on the ATA. You will need to be plugged directly into your Modem and or router via an Ethernet cable. From there a phone cable will be attached to your phone system.
Caller ID Limitations with TekTalk?
15 alphanumeric characters with no special characters or punctuation. As a residential service we cannot accept business names. We cannot allow misleading or offensive names.
TekTalk to another location or even Country?
Yes you can! The ATA will work with your number as long as it has an Ethernet connection. However, we do not support issues with the provider you are connecting to. They may have blocks or ports unable to be used. You would need to reach out to the internet provider in question if the Grandstream will not connect. Also note 911 services will not work at any location outside of Canada. If it is a temporary location in Canada you must let us know to update the record.
How long does it take to port a phone number?
The time a port takes may vary dependent on the information provided by the customer and their current phone provider. You should plan for it to take at least 5-10 business days though. If you are porting a Mobile phone number it is more complex and could take up to 30 days.
Can I use another long distance provider?
No. Unless the service uses a dial around number for access (example pre paid phone cards).
Can I change my TekTalk number?
Yes you can! There is a $5 fee to do so. Also note the original number is lost and cannot be restored once changed.
Can I port to another provider?
Yes, you can port to another provider at any time. We have no fees or costs. The Grandstream is purchased so it is yours to keep. If you cancel and you are on a Rent to Own payment all other payments are made towards the device.
911 with TekTalk?
- VoIP depends on an Internet connection, so if there is an interruption in the power or Internet services you will not be able to make a phone call. You may be able to add extra equipment but this is not included with TekTalk.
- Since the location of TekTalk service and equipment can change, it is crucial to have the correct 911 location information on file with your provider at all times.
- Your 911 call in that case, connects to a service wide center which then connects the customer to the center closest to the customer’s physical location. The information on file must be current for emergency service to be effective.
- These are the basics but we have a full outline found here.
Can I dial 0 for operator or 411 (directory assistance) or 611?
For 0 and 411 No. Operator assistance is not available, nor planned for implementation. 611 on the other hand, Yes, this will connect them to the Teksavvy general support line.
Collect Calling or collect toll calling with TekTalk?
No, there are no plans to add this service.
Is 711, TTY ("text telephone" or "telephone typewriter.") , TDD(telecommunications devices for the deaf), or voice relay services available
Yes they are available with the service.
North American Long Distance
If you have TekTalk Basic all Long Distance applies at 2.9 cents per minute in Canada and US. TekTalk Premium includes 100 Minutes and after those are used will the Long Distance apply.
How do I know what is a Long Distance Call
You need to look up your number and compare it to the number you are calling. Using the Local Calling Guide online is the easist option!
This is an example of the number being local
Here is one where it is not and it would be charged
Can I dial 311 to contact municipal services?
This service is available in select larger cities.
Toll free numbers or pay-per-use number accessible?
Toll free numbers like 1-800, 1-888, etc, are available! Pay per use numbers are not.
How Do I Setup TekTalk International Calling?
By default, International calling is disabled. In order to have International Calling enable, please contact us so we can have it activated.
If you would like to have it deactivated again, please contact us.
