Category: Product

What’s the deal with Vox Satellite?

Posted on by Suhail Dinat

Now this is a story all about how,

Satellite Internet flipped life upside down,

I’d like to take a minute, just sit right there,

I’ll tell you how it brought the world to the air.

If you’re old enough to remember exactly where this from, you probably remember what Satellite Internet was about. In fact, if you’re old enough to remember giving your PC a chronic illness just to download music from LimeWire (yes, we’re pretending it was “music”), you’re old enough to remember Satellite. If you’re old enough to remember having external speakers (which crackled when your phone rang), you’re old enough to remember Satellite. If you’re old enough – you get the drift. Satellite was there way back when – but here we are in 2023 to explain to you why it’s still relevant. 

Remember the Dial-Up Days?

Ah, the ’90s, when the internet was just making its way into our homes. Back then, getting online meant enduring the cacophonous symphony of beeps, boops, and screeches as your modem connected via your trusty landline. But it was worth it, right? Slow loading times, frequent disconnections, and that unmistakable “You’ve Got Mail!” sound were all part of the internet experience.

Fast forward to today, and we’ve come a long way from those days of dial-up. High-speed broadband and fiber-optic connections have become the norm. But what if I told you that satellite internet is reviving that ’90s vibe in a whole new way?

Satellite Internet: A Modern Twist on a Classic Feel

Satellite internet, my friends, is like a blast from the past with a futuristic twist. Instead of being tethered to a physical connection, satellite internet beams the internet straight to your home from space! It’s like the sci-fi dreams of the ’90s have come true.

Remember when you had to wait minutes for a single webpage to load? Satellite internet brings that sense of anticipation back. While it’s not as speedy as fiber-optic connections, it’s a reliable option for folks in rural areas or those who crave a bit of nostalgia. The lag during online gaming might give you flashbacks to trying to load a webpage while someone was using the phone line in the next room.

Satellite Internet and the ’90s Throwback Lifestyle

But the throwback experience isn’t the only reason to consider satellite internet. It’s also a lifeline for those in areas where traditional broadband is a distant dream. Picture this: you’re living in a picturesque cabin nestled in the woods, surrounded by nature, and free from the hustle and bustle of city life. You’re also free from those high-speed internet options.

That’s where satellite internet shines. It bridges the gap, allowing you to enjoy the serenity of rural living while staying connected to the digital world. You can work from your cabin, stream your favorite ’90s TV shows, and even play some online games (albeit with a bit of lag, but hey, we’re embracing the throwback vibe here).

Conclusion: Satellite Internet – A Nostalgic Journey into the Future

In a world where internet speeds seem to be constantly racing ahead, satellite internet offers a delightful detour into the past. It’s like the ’90s called, and they want their internet back – but with a modern twist that keeps you connected no matter where you are.

So, if you’re ready for a journey down memory lane while staying firmly rooted in the present, consider giving satellite internet a try. It might not be as lightning-fast as the latest broadband technology, but it sure brings a nostalgic throwback vibe to your online adventures. Enjoy the nostalgia, folks, and happy surfing!

Talking Vox Fibre to the Home

Posted on by Suhail Dinat

Picture this (Sicily 1984): you’re all geared up to stream the latest blockbuster movie in high definition, but your internet connection is slower than a snail on a Sunday stroll. The buffering wheel spins endlessly, and frustration sets in. 

We’ve all been there, my fellow netizens, and it’s time to wave goodbye to such agonising moments. Enter Vox Fibre to the Home (FTTH) – the Usain Bolt of internet connections, here to save us from the buffering blues and elevate our online experiences to a whole new level.

Today, we’re not talking about your ordinary internet. We’re talking about internet connectivity that moves faster than a caffeinated cheetah on rollerblades. If you’re ready to bid farewell to turtle-like download speeds and say hello to the thrill of supersonic browsing, then buckle up, because Vox FTTH is about to revolutionise your internet game like never before. 

So, grab your popcorn, sit back, and let’s embark on this Fibre-optic adventure together.

  • A Faster and Smoother Experience

The first aspect that captures your attention with Vox FTTH is the remarkable speed it offers. Unlike traditional cable or DSL connections, FTTH utilizes Fibre-optic cables that can transmit data at the speed of light. This means that you’ll experience lightning-fast download and upload speeds, enabling you to access content and transfer data quicker than ever before.

Say goodbye to endless buffering while streaming videos or the frustration of slow-loading webpages. Vox FTTH opens up a new realm of possibilities, from seamless 4K streaming to lag-free online gaming. Imagine the convenience of downloading large files in mere seconds and being able to video chat in crystal-clear quality without any interruptions. With Vox FTTH, the internet will be a place of instant gratification.

  • Unparalleled Reliability and Stability

Ever had your internet connection drop right in the middle of an important video call or during an intense gaming session? We’ve all been there, and it’s undoubtedly frustrating. Vox FTTH provides a solution to this problem with its exceptional reliability and stability.

Fibre-optic cables are much more robust and resistant to environmental factors like weather and electromagnetic interference, which often disrupt other types of connections. As a result, Vox FTTH offers a near-flawless performance, providing a consistently reliable connection. Whether it’s sunny, rainy, or stormy outside, you can count on Vox FTTH to keep you connected.

  • Future-Proofing Your Home

Investing in Vox FTTH isn’t just about enjoying better internet today; it’s about future-proofing your home for the years to come. As technology advances and our online demands grow, traditional copper-based internet infrastructures will struggle to keep up. In contrast, FTTH networks are designed to handle the ever-increasing bandwidth requirements of the future.

By opting for Vox FTTH, you are preparing your home for the next generation of internet services, which could include technologies we can’t even imagine yet. Whether it’s virtual reality, augmented reality, or something entirely groundbreaking, Vox FTTH will be ready to support it all.

  • Elevating Your Home Entertainment Experience

Your home entertainment experience will reach new heights with FTTH. Say farewell to pixelated video streams and hello to stunning 4K content on multiple devices simultaneously. Vox FTTH enables your entire household to stream, download, and play without any noticeable decrease in performance.

No more disputes over who gets priority bandwidth when multiple people are using the internet at once. Vox FTTH delivers the bandwidth needed to cater to all your family members’ online activities without a hitch. You can stream a movie in the living room, while someone else games in their bedroom, and yet another person has a video call in the study, all at the same time!

In a world where the internet plays a central role in almost everything we do, having a reliable, high-speed connection is non-negotiable. Vox Fibre to the Home emerges as the indisputable choice for an exceptional internet experience. From its lightning-fast speeds to its unwavering stability, Vox FTTH will change the way you experience the online world, bringing convenience, entertainment, and endless possibilities right to your fingertips.

So, why settle for mediocrity when you can embrace the future of internet connectivity with Vox FTTH? Take the leap, invest in Vox FTTH, and prepare to embark on a remarkable digital journey where every moment online is a sheer delight. Get ready to unlock new horizons and redefine the way you connect with the world.

In a world where disappointment and frustration have become all too familiar, Vox Telecom is here to shatter the status quo and redefine your expectations. Just like those unforgettable radio ads (again, you know the ones) we’re stepping up to introduce something truly remarkable (in a good way, this time). South Africa, it’s time to rewrite the narrative. It’s time to step out of the shadows of disappointment and into the spotlight of possibility. Vox Telecom isn’t just a provider; we’re your partner in transformation, your key to a world where the best isn’t just a distant dream. It’s a reality, waiting for you to claim it. Join us on this exhilarating journey, and let’s paint a new picture together – one that’s vibrant, connected, and filled with the promise of more. Because with Vox Fibre to the Home, the future is now, and it’s brighter than ever before.

Exploring the World of Vox Fibre to the Business.

Posted on by Suhail Dinat

In the fast-paced world of business, every second counts. In the blink of an eye, opportunities arise, deals are made, and innovations take flight. In this high-stakes environment, having a reliable and lightning-fast internet connection is not just a luxury; it’s a game-changer that can propel your business to new heights. Meet Vox Fibre to the Business (FTTB) – a powerful tool that can unleash the untapped potential of your organization, providing you with the competitive edge you’ve been craving. 

Let’s dive into the thrilling world of Vox FTTB and discover how it can revolutionise the way you do business!

  1. The Need for Speed: No More Waiting Games

Time is money, they say, and in the world of business, this rings truer than ever. With Vox FTTB, gone are the days of twiddling your thumbs as web pages slowly load or waiting for crucial data to transfer. This Fibre marvel offers unrivaled speed that will leave you wondering why you ever settled for less.

Imagine the satisfaction of video conferencing with clients from around the globe in seamless HD, without any annoying lags or delays. Vox FTTB ensures that your online activities, be it Cloud-based applications or data-heavy transactions, are lightning-quick, allowing you to make critical decisions faster and outpace the competition with ease.

  1. Uninterrupted Connectivity: A Steady Ship in Choppy Waters

In business, you can’t afford to lose connectivity, especially during crucial moments. Vox FTTB brings stability to the turbulent seas of the internet, guaranteeing a reliable connection no matter what storms may come your way.

Say goodbye to those nerve-wracking moments of dropped connections during a critical conference call or an online sales pitch. Vox FTTB’s robust fiber-optic infrastructure ensures that you stay connected, 24/7, providing you with the peace of mind to focus on what matters most – growing your business.

  1. Enhancing Collaboration: Teamwork at the Speed of Thought

In today’s interconnected business world, collaboration is key to success. With Vox FTTB, collaborating with your team members, partners, and clients becomes a breeze. The fast and stable connection paves the way for seamless communication and efficient sharing of files and data.

Gone are the days of waiting for email attachments to load or experiencing disruptions during video conferences. Vox FTTB empowers your team to work together, like a well-oiled machine, regardless of their physical location. Embrace the power of real-time collaboration and watch your productivity soar.

  1. Future-Proofing Your Business: Where Innovation Thrives

The business landscape is ever evolving, and technology continues to shape its course. By investing in Vox FTTB, you’re not just securing a cutting-edge internet solution for today, but also future proofing your business for tomorrow’s challenges.

As technology advances, your business will need to adapt to stay ahead of the curve. Vox FTTB’s scalability and capability to handle increasing bandwidth demands make it the ideal choice for future innovations, such as Cloud-based services, IoT integration, and much more. Embrace Vox FTTB, and your business will always be ready to seize the opportunities that lie ahead.

In the fast-paced world of business, staying ahead of the competition demands more than just skill and hard work – it requires leveraging cutting-edge technology. Vox Fibre to the Business (FTTB) emerges as the ultimate weapon in your arsenal, offering blazing-fast speeds, uninterrupted connectivity, enhanced collaboration, and future-proofing capabilities.

Don’t let slow and unreliable internet hold your business back from reaching its full potential. Embrace Vox FTTB, and watch your organization soar to new heights of productivity, efficiency, and innovation. The future of your business awaits, and it starts with a simple choice – Vox FTTB, the path to a brighter and more successful future. Embrace the power of fiber-optic technology and unlock the untapped potential of your business today.

Managed Rentals with Vox PBX

Posted on by Suhail Dinat

We’ve delved into the world of PBX plenty of times.  

In fact, we’re pretty sure you fully understand what it is, what it does, and how Vox have achieved Titanium Status (the highest certification around) for two years running (and, yes, we may have used that opening paragraph just to flex about this one more time).  

Today, however, we’re taking a different route. Instead of talking all things PBX, we’re focusing on a lesser known (but by no means less important) value added service within our brand portfolio. Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Nope – it’s Managed Services – with specific emphasis on hardware rentals.  

We know, we know – you’re probably thinking “Rentals? Isn’t that just for fancy cars and beachfront villas?”. Actually, the answer is a resounding NO on our part. Buckle up, because we’re about to blow your mind (and hopefully convince your business to get signing and get renting).  

First things first – what’s the need for rentals?  

Well, who wants to be stuck in the Stone Age when there’s a whole galaxy of cutting-edge technology out there? The rapidly evolving nature of the innovative world today means that tech is developing every single day. What’s useful today may be redundant tomorrow – meaning your hard-earned cash has a very likely chance of being invested in something with little to no longevity or resale value. Investing in assets? These days, it’s more like investing in depreciation.  

But, enough waffling, let’s talk tangible benefits:  

1. Predictable Monthly Opex Cost – No More Surprises: 

You know that sinking feeling when you open your monthly bills and discover unexpected charges that make your jaw drop? Yeah, we’ve all been there. But fear not, because with PBX Managed Hardware Rentals, you can say goodbye to those heart-stopping moments. Your monthly Opex cost is as predictable as the sunrise – no surprises, no hidden fees. It’s like having a budgeting superpower! 

2. Access to Premium Products and Services – Without the Ownership Drama: 

Let’s be real, owning things can sometimes be a headache. Maintenance, repairs, upgrades – it’s a never-ending cycle of stress. But with PBX Managed Hardware Rentals, you get access to premium products and services without the ownership drama. It’s like enjoying a five-star hotel without having to worry about vacuuming or fixing leaky faucets. Sit back, relax, and let us take care of the tech stuff while you focus on what really matters. 

3. No Significant Cash Outlay – More Money for Fun Stuff: 

Picture this: You’re planning that epic team getaway or end of year Christmas bash. But, suddenly, reality hits and you’re one hefty cash outlay for a PBX system away from a full-scale riot. With PBX Managed Hardware Rentals, you can save your hard-earned cash for the fun stuff. No need to break the bank or risk the wrath of disgruntled staff members. It’s like having your cake and eating it too. 

4. Flexible Contract Terms – Because One Size Doesn’t Fit All: 

We all know that life is unpredictable. One moment you’re binge-watching your favorite series, and the next, you’re caught up in a whirlwind of change. That’s why flexibility is key. With PBX Managed Hardware Rentals, you get to choose contract terms that suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a short-term fling or a long-term commitment, we’ve got you covered. From 12 months to 60 months, it’s all about finding the perfect match for you. 

5. Easier Budgeting – Monthly Spend vs. Capex Spend: 

Budgeting can be as fun as watching paint dry, am I right? But fear not, because with PBX Managed Hardware Rentals, budgeting becomes a breeze. Instead of dealing with those pesky capital expenditures (capex), you get to enjoy a monthly spend that’s easy to track and plan for. No more pulling out your hair over complex financial calculations – it’s smooth sailing all the way. 

6. Up-to-Date Technology – No Depreciation Blues: 

Technology moves at the speed of light, and staying ahead of the curve can feel like running a never-ending race. But, as always, fear not. With PBX Managed Hardware Rentals, you’ll always be at the forefront of innovation. Say goodbye to depreciation woes and hello to up-to-date technology. It’s like having a personal time-traveling DeLorean, minus the flux capacitor. 

7. On-Site Maintenance – Faulty Equipment? No Sweat: 

We all know that technology can be a bit finicky at times. Sometimes equipment goes on strike or decides to take an unplanned vacation. However, with PBX Managed Hardware Rentals, we’ve got your back. Our on-site maintenance team will handle faulty equipment swap-outs like true superheroes. No need to stress or go on a wild goose chase for replacements – we’ll make it right, pronto. 

8. Upgrade and Add-On at Any Time – Keep the Party Going: 

Life is all about growth and change, right? Well, the same goes for your PBX system. With PBX Managed Hardware Rentals, you have the freedom to upgrade and add-on at any time. Need more power to fuel your business ambitions? We’ve got you covered.  

9. No Need to Worry – We’ve Got Your Assets Covered: 

Asset tracking and management can be a real headache – like trying to herd cats or organise your sock drawer – a never-ending battle. However, With PBX Managed Hardware Rentals, you can bid farewell to those worries. We’ll take care of the asset tracking and management, so you can focus on the things that truly matter.  

So there you have it – the wonders of PBX Managed Hardware Rentals. Say goodbye to stress, depreciation, and cash outlays. Say hello to predictable costs, premium tech, and hassle-free maintenance. It’s a game-changer, a life-enhancer, and a true superhero in the world of business communication. Throw in service excellence, one of the most reputable 3CX providers around, knowledgeable staff, assistance as you need it (and, of course, a Titanium Certified Service Provider – we’re kind of proud of that one), and you have everything you need to elevate your business to new heights. 

What are you waiting for? Get in touch and let’s make our solution your reality. 

Connectivity on the go: why not all mobile internet services are the same

Posted on by Theo van Zyl

Driven by a changing environment, including a return to the office for many as well as tougher economic conditions, more consumers are taking a closer look at their connectivity requirements. Are they spending too much money and does it adequately serve their requirements? While they look for alternatives, what needs to be kept in mind is that not all connectivity is equal – and it often comes down to choosing between quality and mobility. 

We are now well into the post-pandemic phase with organisations taking differing approaches to working. Some small businesses might have given up on their physical offices altogether in an effort to save on costs, some have taken a hybrid approach balancing working from home with coming into the office, while others have returned to the office almost full time. 

During the peak of the pandemic, when workers had to remain indoors, there was a requirement to have reliable and stable connectivity in order to enable an efficient work-from-home environment. This meant ideally a fibre line or a fixed-LTE connection that was preferably uncapped and could be shared with the whole family. 

With people either returning to the office for most of the week, or splitting days between working in the office and remotely – and with tightening wallets – they are now reassessing whether they actually need that level of connectivity at home and whether they should rather switch to mobile connectivity that offers them more flexibility. 

A hybrid working approach can easily result in employees meeting with their colleagues or suppliers outside of office premises, such as at a coffee shop or restaurant and all you need is a laptop and your own connectivity. After all, you don’t want to be doing your banking or confidential work using a public WiFi connection that could easily compromise your (and your company’s) security. Even if you are going to a client’s office, what happens if you are unable to connect to their guest WiFi network? 

The reality is that people are demanding connectivity that is a lot more flexible than before – they want reliable internet access on the go. The obvious solution is to go for mobile connectivity. However, one area that still tends to trip up consumers is the difference between mobile and fixed-LTE and what it means for their user experience. 

Why fixed-LTE is not the same as mobile 

It is crucial for consumers to understand that mobile internet and fixed-LTE (in the cases of most of the operators) are not the same. The data bundles and costs are not the same, while the coverage of fixed-LTE is small in comparison to overall mobile coverage. Depending on the provider, a fixed-LTE service can be set up to only work with approved WiFi routers, and can be geo-locked to a particular location as specified by the customer. Why is this the case? 

Unlike regular mobile connectivity, which is aimed at giving the user flexibility and convenience of use, fixed-LTE connections are about providing the users with a better quality of service. By working off a fixed location, the mobile operator can dimension their network to match user demand.  

This usually works by allocating three towers to provide a particular user with an internet connection; the user’s router locks on to one tower and if that doesn’t work, it moves on to the next one. In the end, it depends on the mobile operator as to how big (or small) the geo-locked area is, as well as how strict they are when it comes to locking a user down to a particular area or using a specified router only.  

It should be noted that with many service providers, the geo-lock doesn’t mean that the user is stuck with only being able to use their fixed-LTE at one location; in many instances, users can easily register a secondary location so that they can continue to enjoy their connectivity, but this is not as seamless as many users would like it to be. Fixed-LTE is also cost affective and can get as low as 80c/GB on an uncapped service before reaching data  thresholds. 

Challenges with mobile connectivity 

This is simply not the case with a regular mobile internet connection, as the mobile operator simply doesn’t know where a user will go next, and cannot guarantee that they will have a good connectivity experience in that area. Take for example if a user goes to the Sandton city centre when a major conference is taking place: the huge volume of people will end up causing network congestion and poor connectivity for those making use of their mobile data. Yet if they go to the same location on a quiet Sunday afternoon, they will experience the best that mobile connectivity has to offer.  

Similarly, think of the vast numbers of tourists that head down from South Africa’s inland provinces to the coastal areas over the holiday period: they’re not just lazing at the beach, they are video calling friends and family, playing online games, streaming movies and series and more, all of which puts a strain on the normal mobile network. This is not the case with fixed-LTE, where operators might have foreseen the growth in demand and provided increased capacity to deal with it. 

Let’s also not forget that mobile data costs an exorbitant sum, with anywhere between R69-R79 or even much more per gigabyte of data. Once you follow up on some emails, open a few attachments, make video calls with family and friends, and watch some Netflix or YouTube, the data bundles start depleting while the costs start going up. 

Choosing between mobility and quality 

The argument against not allowing mobility when it comes to fixed-LTE is that the users benefit from better network quality as the operator knows where all the fixed-LTE users are located and how much capacity they need to allocate in those areas in order to meet demand. It is important to note that some operators don’t make this distinction and their ‘fixed-LTE’ devices can be moved around, but at the cost of sacrificing quality, which defeats the purpose of a fixed mobile connection in the first place, but could provide the best of both worlds for some users depending on their needs.  

Users need to understand what is on offer before making the decision to buy: some operators allow you to move around and some don’t, while others may allow you to use a fixed-LTE sim in any device (or even a phone to be used as a wireless hotspot) while others only allow the use of approved WiFi routers.  

The reality is that it is a trade-off – if you want true mobility, you can’t have the best quality, and if you want the best quality, you can’t get true mobility. Ultimately, users will have to weigh up the pros and cons of the different options and match those against their needs to find the solution that is best suited for them. 

On the air with Channel Africa

Posted on by Kathleen Morris

Channel Africa interviewed Kathleen Janse Van Rensburg, Vox’s Satellite Product Manager, to dive deep into the current market trends. Kathleen shared her invaluable insights and expertise, shedding light on the latest happenings in the ever-evolving market of Satellite, LTE and more.  Whether you’re an industry professional, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the ISP industry, this interview is a must-listen.

Introducing the Volta 700x

Posted on by Suhail Dinat

Enter the world of South Africans, where everything is made up and the rules don’t matter.

Our yellow lanes are for public transport, our electricity is for neighboring countries, and we’ve missed the “efficiency” memo when we tried to combine our sewerage and drinking water into one. Instead of Hartbeespoort Dam being an actual, you know, Dam, today it looks like a fluffy Padel Court. Our beaches aren’t for swimming and our power isn’t for using.

We’re a nation where everything works – eventually – but we’re also a resilient one which has (kind of) managed to work around the chaos (Karen’s included).

The biggest challenge we face? The words on everyone’s lips? The localized version of Beetlejuice, where saying it three times in a mirror can probably make it happen? Load Shedding – more affectionately known as the collective bane of our very existence.

In the whimsical world of load shedding, South Africans play a thrilling game of chance known as “Load Shedding Roulette.” Will your favorite coffee shop have power? Will the traffic lights suddenly switch off, leading to spontaneous chaos on the roads? Will my lights come on ten minutes early, twenty minutes late, or not at all? Can I log a call with City Power yet? Is the kettle boiled? Will the geyser be hot? It’s a guessing game that keeps everyone on their toes. And then some.

But fear not, dear reader, for the portable power station emerges as the ultimate wild card, ensuring you’ll never miss your caffeine fix and bringing order to the chaos of the roads.

Fear not, dear reader, because there’s an end in sight (kind of) – or should we say a light at the end of the tunnel? Enter the era of the Portable Power Station (in this instance: the Volta 700x) – a wild card designed to bring order to chaos and (hopefully) restore a modicum of sanity, normality, humanity – or all of the above.

But first, let’s scale it back and recap some of our favorite scenarios…

Picture this: You’re engrossed in your favorite TV series, eagerly awaiting the climax, when suddenly… poof… the lights go out. Cue the groans, the grumbles, and the hilarious scramble to find your solar light/candle/phone torch It’s like a well-orchestrated comedy show, except nobody asked for tickets. Cue the cries of “where’s the lamp?”, “I can’t find my phone” and, our personal favorite, “OUCH – MY TOE”.

Enter the 700x, the ultimate punchline to this electrifying situation, offering an instant power-up for uninterrupted binge-watching (plus, ours comes with a built-in torch – which kind of helps).

Next, picture yourself at a lively South African braai with friends and family, the smell of sizzling meat in the air, and laughter filling the atmosphere. Suddenly, darkness descends, and the braai master is left fumbling in the dark, desperately trying to reignite the grill. It’s a hilarious game of “Guess the Sausage,” where the true skills are tested by the faint glow of a smartphone flashlight. In theory, cooking by firelight should ensure sufficient lighting – but try explaining that to the poor chap attempting to salvage his chop. Nightmare, right?

Fear not, for the portable power station swoops in to save the day, bringing the sparks back to the braai (and hopefully not in a literal sense).

But wait, there’s more…

There’s nothing quite like a cozy movie night at home, snuggled up on the couch with popcorn and loved ones. But what happens when the power goes out in the middle of a suspenseful scene? Suddenly, the dramatic tension shifts from the movie to the living room, as family members shout out their improvised dialogues and create their own endings.

Hello, 700x – the unexpected hero that saves the day, allowing you to continue your movie marathon without missing a beat (or a punchline).

You get the picture. We’re sure of it. At least we hope so – because we’re rapidly running out of imaginary scenarios.

All things said and done; we still feel like we’re kind of underselling our product – so here’s the pitch. The Volta 700x is a rugged, portable power station which you can use as a convenient home backup solution OR take with you wherever you may need it (think camping – but glamping). It’s capable of powering up/charging your phone, mini-fridge, laptop, PC, second screen, tablet, Wi-Fi, and even your TV. In fact, we’re sure the only thing it can’t power up is Eskom itself.

It’s literally port, plug, and play. You can charge it as you need it (utilising the full power of Lithium Batteries – at least, that’s what the brochure says) and enjoy a whopping (insert high number) of power on demand. It even has a built-in flashlight – but we’ve already said this. We cover warranties, repairs, and replacements if necessary – and all our contracts are on a month-to-month, affordable rental basis.

That’s it – that’s the pitch.

The future of sanity in SA clearly involves alternate power solutions – and it doesn’t come more alternate, powerful, or solution centric than the Volta 700x.

Building success within the FTTH market

Posted on by Mary Ogilvy

The South African fibre-to-the-home market saw significant shifts in 2022 across network operators, market growth and connectivity

As of March 2023, the fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) market extended into 5.24 million reported homes with the various fibre network operators (FNOs) adopting different marketing strategies for their FTTH offerings. According to research undertaken by Africa Analysis, FNOs have only passed 3.72 million unique homes of which 2.11 million have access to prepaid FTTH. The report also found that fixed broadband household penetration has risen to 20% as of March 2023 and grew at a 4-year CAGR of 22.2% across DSL, fixed wireless, FTTH and fixed 4G and 5G and this growth is due to a number of factors. Work from home and hybrid working have driven the adoption of FTTH across fixed broadband services, alongside changing customer expectations when it comes to service, delivery and support.

“The FTTH market has seen solid growth because FNOs are building in areas that previously didn’t have access and opening up new markets, and because old copper technologies, such as DSL, are being replaced by fibre,” says Mary Ogilvy, Head of Division: Fibre & ISP at Vox. “Added to this is the growing reliance on connectivity across the consumer base – people can’t rely on mobile data, it’s too expensive, and they need to be connected at home for work, children’s homework, entertainment and more. In this globally connected society, you can’t live without the internet.”

This is reflected in the number of connected homes in South Africa. While the core market of the upper LSM market is not moving as rapidly as in the initial phases, there have been solid strides towards providing previously underserviced areas with cost-effective and accessible connectivity solutions.

As Ogilvy, explains, people are struggling economically and they want affordable solutions that come with proven service and support so they can stay connected.

“The industry has changed, people are choosing based on reliability and trust and price,” says Ogilvy. “This is an important differentiation – your service may be the cheapest, but if you don’t provide reliable aftercare, people are going to leave. Not many of the ISPs offer 24/7/365 support and many companies only provide support over WhatsApp. This is pushing people towards ISPs that make it easy to resolve problems and manage their FTTH accounts.”

Consumers want FTTH that connects with them as customers and companies paying attention to this need are seeing solid growth within the local market. This is reflected by the changing shape of market share across the top five ISPs – there is now only a small market share difference of 2.7% between them.

“It doesn’t matter if your business has been a stronghold in the market for the past however many years – if your product isn’t delivering, if you’re not adding customers, and if you can’t change with the times, then you’re going to lose market share,” says Ogilvy.

Amidst this flurry of growth and expansion, a few companies have stood out in terms of their growth trajectory and performance, primarily due to their focus on customer service and service delivery. Vox has seen impressive traction, moving to sit comfortably in the top five ISPs across total FTTH homes connected. Vox believes that the reason why the company has gained this traction is because of its commitment to providing FTTH customers with the same levels of support and network grade quality as their business services.

“The goal is to ensure that customers get what they need with minimal stress,” concludes Ogilvy. “We believe that quality is the key differentiating factor – high-quality service, functionality, support and service.”

Why businesses need to consider fixed microwave connectivity

Posted on by Nikita Appelman

While fibre might be the preferred form of internet connectivity for businesses, getting connected is easier said than done. Fibre installations can take months, or a business might be located in an area that is currently not within the coverage area of a Fibre network provider. There is an alternative, however, as fixed licensed spectrum microwave can provide them with a fibre-like connectivity experience with link speeds in excess of 1 Gbps where required.

Firstly, it is crucial to understand that not all fixed Wireless services are equal. Fixed-LTE might be a popular option, but services tend to become degraded as soon as higher stages of load-shedding hit and are also defined as a best-effort service. Then, there is fixed microwave – many people, especially those in urban areas, might be familiar with the round dishes that are fixed to masts in order to have the line-of-sight they need in order to connect.

Microwave services tend to fare much better during loadshedding as they have much better power management on the high sites as compared to cellular base stations, though users will need to ensure that they have a backup power supply for the equipment that is installed on their premises. As a further bonus, bespoke microwave solutions are especially ideal for customers who are located in more rural areas but require stable, reliable internet connectivity.

Open vs. licensed spectrum

But, there are differences even within fixed microwave: connectivity services offered by many Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are aimed primarily at residential users and operate within Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) radio bands, or what is known as Open Spectrum. This means that there is the potential for signal interference with other devices operating within the same spectrum, which usually results in a degraded experience for the end user.

Microwave fixed services that operate in licensed bands are more expensive because the spectrum has to be allocated from the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA). These high-quality services use dedicated spectrum that is not allowed to be used by other users. As such there is no potential for interference, even in crowded areas, while users benefit from low latency and high throughput internet connectivity. Using licensed spectrum also allows for significantly higher speeds – between 5Mbps and and 1Gbps and special builds ranging to 10Gbps. Unlicenced bands provided much lower speeds

Fixed microwave brings with it numerous other benefits: in the case of Vox, this includes having relatively quick installation times of the customer premise equipment, offering customers the ability to have customised solutions to meet their specific business requirements. Dedicated links are far more reliable having service level agreements and Managed 24/7/365 support on all fixed microwave links. These fixed links can also include a dedicated VLAN for Voice to ensure quality of service (QoS) on all additional voice requirements and uncapped voice calling plans.

How businesses can use microwave

For South African businesses, there are currently three main ways in which they can use fixed microwave services. Firstly, they can use microwave as their primary connectivity if their premises or branches are located in areas where they know that fibre is highly unlikely to be deployed.

Secondly, in areas that have a fibre network, but not the last-mile connectivity to their premises, businesses can opt to temporarily use microwave connectivity (given the quick installation times) as a temporary service until they are connected to the fibre network, which can take months.

Thirdly is for businesses to use microwave as a redundancy (failover) for their primary form of connectivity. In the case of organisations selecting the second option, as mentioned above, the microwave service can be changed from their primary form of connectivity to redundancy once their fibre line has been installed. Beyond just internet access, voice services can also be added on the dedicated VLAN.

While licensed spectrum microwave tends to be more expensive than other fixed alternatives, this is primarily a result of operating within dedicated spectrum and the equipment required, and not the actual data costs. In fact, costs have been coming down as providers offer more aggressive pricing options. As such, fixed microwave is the most ideal form of connectivity for businesses that don’t have access to fibre (or as redundancy for those that do) as it provides premium, carrier-grade connectivity as opposed to the alternatives that are best-effort services.

Vox 3CX Cloud – A Jacaranda FM Case Study

Posted on by Guin Davies

The Industry 

Broadcasting to a combined audience of over three million listeners, Jacaranda FM is one of South Africa’s biggest independent radio stations. What began as a broadcast service for FM radio listeners in Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga and the North West Province now encompasses the globe thanks to innovations in digital streaming and social media.  

Moving into the realm of digital media brings added pressure, says Jacaranda FM’s Technical & IT Manager, Andrew Pike, “There are many more competitors than when it was just radio.” 

The Business Challenge  

Understandably, when the stakes are that high, there’s no time for downtime or miscommunication. When Jacaranda FM was faced with an issue of high costs and low flexibility with their previous Voice and Data solution, Andrew knew a change needed to be made. Preferably one that didn’t involve any logistical complications or unnecessary technical glitches during the transition. It’s a big ask – especially in a hybrid work environment with a distributed workforce, from head office to the home office, using various devices and an entirely new VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) software to wrap their heads around. That’s where Vox 3CX Cloud comes in. 

The Business Solution   

Safe, secure and straightforward, 3CX Cloud boasts over 250 000 successful installations worldwide – Jacaranda FM now included. As Andrew explains, “Vox’s Unlimited 3CX Cloud Plan with support for device and mobile is perfectly suited to our needs. Our Vox APN service is completely flexible, with competitive Data pricing.” 

It doesn’t hurt that implementation was also a breeze. “We had less than an hour downtime when migrating from our previous PBX to 3CX,” says Andrew. “The transition was easy, especially as we could keep our existing desktop phones. Many of our users didn’t even know the service was down during that time.”  

A complete Unified Communications solution with international recognition, 3CX Cloud takes PBX (Private Branch Exchange) to a whole new level, allowing users to access everything from video calls and interactive web conferencing to live chat and document sharing. All without having to change numbers, and, in most cases, hardware.  

3CX Cloud’s intuitive installation wizard also means users don’t have to have advanced technical know-how to start making the most of their new communications solution – which includes features like call routing, caller ID and voicemail. 

The Benefits  

Besides 3CX Cloud’s multi-device and platform compatibility, coupled with Vox’s Unlimited call plan and the ease of integration into their business, Andrew admits there’s an added benefit of using 3CX Cloud, “The flexibility of adding and removing numbers from the portal has impressed me.”  

After more than eight years together, Andrew describes Jacaranda FM’s partnership with Vox as seamless. “Vox has solutions that can scale up or down and suit the needs of small- to medium-sized businesses. The number of services available also means that we can find most of our solutions from one company. Our account manager, Shaka Vilakazi, is very knowledgeable and accessible, and, when needed, Support and fault reporting work well.”  

As an Advanced Certified 3CX partner, Vox is the perfect choice to deploy, maintain and manage 3CX Cloud at every stage of implementation. 

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