A Simple Guide to Headset Technology

2.5 mm
2.5 millimeter plugs are standard, round plugs. Many mobile headsets come with this size of plug, which should fit standard mobile and cordless phones.

3.5 mm
3.5 millimeter plugs are larger than the 2.5 mm round plugs on the telephones.

A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile)
A2DP is a Bluetooth profile that transmits stereo sounds. Also referred to as AV profile, it is designed to transfer a stereo audio stream from an mp3 player to a headset or car radio.

Amplifier
Amplifiers make sound louder. This technology enables headsets to be used with corded phones and phone systems.

Analog
Analog refers to a type of sound signal. It refers to computer headsets that plug directly into a computer's sound card with two, round 3.5 mm plugs.

Base
Base refers to your headset's charging base or amplifier.

Binaural
Binaural headsets cover both ears, while monaural headsets cover only one.

BT
Abbreviation for Bluetooth

Bluetooth Technology
Bluetooth is an amazing new wireless technology using short-range radio links that eliminate the cables and wires that currently connect most computing and communications devices.

Convertible
Convertible headsets offer the choice of two wearing styles, usually over-the-head for stability or over-the-ear of easy on/off convenience.

CA
CA stands for "cordless amplifier." These units connect into your phone's hand receiver port and come with a remote that can be used away from the desk.

CS
CS stands for "cordless system." Cordless systems come with both a CA (cordless amplifier) and a headset.

DECT
DECT stands for "Digitally Enhanced Cordless Telephony," which is a type of wireless technology.

Dongle
Dongle is a term for "adapter." It generally refers to a Bluetooth adapter that plugs into your computer's USB port and gives you additional Bluetooth profiles and support.

Earbud and In-the-ear style
Earbud style describes a small, discreet headset with a speaker that fits in the ear and the microphone positioned along the cord.

Eartip
A foam or plastic tip that attaches to a headset and fits snugly inside your ear.

Link Dropping
Link dropping means that the signal between the headset and the telephone periodically disconnects.

Modular
Modular means square and generally refers to modular, RJ9 plugs.

Monaural
Monaural headsets cover only one ear, whereas binaural headsets cover both.

Noise-canceling
Noise-canceling refers to a microphone design that greatly reduces the transmission of background noise, enhancing headset sound quality.

N/NC
Headset model numbers that end with "NC" are noise-canceling.

Over-the-ear
Over-the ear is used to describe headsets that have over-the-ear earloops.

Over-the-head binaural/monaural
Over-the-head is used to describe headsets that go over the head.

Pairing
Pairing refers to establishing a wireless connection between a headset and a phone.

Quick Disconnect
The Quick Disconnect (QD) Connector is at the end of the headset cable that lets you disconnect your headset from an active call.

Radiolink
An active radiolink means that your headset currently has a live connection with your mobile or VoIP phone.

RJ9
RJ9 is a standard, modular plug on most corded telephones.

USB
USB stands for "Universal Serial Bus," and refers to a common port on computers.

VoIP
VoIP stands for "Voice-over internet protocol," and refers to sending voice signals and phone calls over the internet.

Windsmart
Windsmart provides wind-noise reduction technology for optimal sound clarity.

Y-Training Cable
The Y training cable allows you to connect two headsets with QD (Quick Disconnect) connections to one phone. It also includes a mute switch which allows you to mute either headset.