Headset Definitions
Please read through the list below for a better understanding of headset terminology:
Binaural Headset has two ear pieces (for each ear)
Bluetooth this provides cordless communications within a range of 10 metres. Only works with compatible devices.
Circumaural Ear These are large cushions that cover the whole ear of the user, so helping to reduce any background noise.
Convertible Headset Can be worn in 3 styles; behind the head, on the ear or over the head.
DECT This provides cordless communications within a range of 50 metres.
Desktop Amplifier This is an adaptor used to connect modular telephones with any compatible headset.
Donut Ear Cushion This cushion is used to provide extra volume. There is a hole in the middle of the ear cushion.
Duo Pro Headset This Plantronics headset can be worn in 3 styles; behind the head, on the ear or over the head.
Duo Set Headset This Plantronics headset can be worn in 2 styles; over the head or on the ear.
Encore Binaural Headset This Plantronics headset has 2 ear pieces and is worn over the head.
Encore Monaural Headset This Plantronics headset has 1 ear piece and is worn over the head.
Foam Ear Cushion provided with many of the headband headsets. This is a solid foam ear cushion.
H-Top If a Plantronics headset is prefixed with a H (also called Vista Top) you will need to purchase a cable (check which is compatible to your telephone either vista or polaris).
Leatherette Ear Cushion leather ear cushions which have a hole in the middle for extra volume. Ideal to use in warmer working environments.
M12 Amplifier (also called Vista Adaptor). A Plantronics adaptor used to connect many modular phones with all H-Top headsets.
Monaural Headset Has one ear piece.
Mute Switch If you do not want your caller to hear you, this switch turns the headset transmitter off.
N or NC This means that the headset is noise-cancelling. It will state this in the product title.
Noise-Cancelling This headset considerably reduces surrounding noise using a special microphone.
Noise Suppressor This is a small cup which fits to the end of voice tube headsets. It dulls background noise by directing your voice to the voice tube end.
P-Top (called Polaris Top) Plantronics range of headsets which are pre-amplified. The polaris connecting cable is included with these headsets.
Polaris Cable This Plantronics connecting cable enables headsets to connect to a wider range of handsets.
Quick Disconnect Many of the headsets have a quick disconnect clip. Where the headset and cable join, you will find the clip. Handy, as you can leave your desk without taking the headset off fully by quickly disconnecting the top of the headset from the handset.
RJ Connector Found at the end of the LAN or telephony cable, it is a small plastic plug attached for easier insertion and removal of cables.
RJ11 A standard plug used to connect headsets with phones or to connect phones. With the RJ11 there are 4 positions for pins/wires.
RJ12 A standard plug used to connect phones to the wall sockets. With the RJ12 there are 6 positions for pins/wires.
RJ45 A standard plug required to connect LAN cables and also some phones to wall sockets. With the RJ45 there are 8 positions for pins/wires.
Training Cable This cable lets the trainer listen in to the trainees conversation whilst on the phone. The cable fits between the phone and the headset connecting cable. There are a few cable options available speak to an adviser on which is best suited for your requirements.
Vista Cable A Plantronics cable with an RJ plug attached on the end, which allows headsets to connect to a wider range of phones. The Vista Cable can be used as the M10 or M12 Amplifier Cable.
Voice Tube Is a replaceable clear plastic tube or even a thin metal pipe which is used on normal headsets (not noise cancelling). Replace regularly to avoid loss of hearing, as the micro mesh on the tube can get blocked.
Windscreen This stops any spitting sounds which can be caused by the wind from your mouth. It is a small foam cover that fits on the end of a noise cancelling headset.
If you would like to discuss any of these definitions or you have come across a term that has not been explained, please call our customer services team on 0800 954 9009
