Integration with Microsoft Outlook and Live Messenger applications adds to the productivity-enhancing benefits of this Session Initiation Protocol (SIP)-based communications portal. The 3Com Desktop Communicator Outlook Edition softphone offers the convenience and cost-savings of a single, standards-based software client that enables access to 3Com VCX IP telephony services as well as audio and video conferencing, e-mail, note taking, call recording, presence and instant messaging with T.140 text chat.

The intuitive client interface eases everyday business tasks. It eliminates the need for a video conference bridge to schedule video sessions in advance and for an external instant messaging tool to enable chatting among conference participants. With only a single click from the Desktop Communicator, users can place a call or add participants to a conference. Similarly, only a mouse click is needed to add video to a conference session.

Additionally, a presence indicator – local to the VCX software – shows call recipient status to reduce telephone tag and communications delays, and the no-nonsense interface and comprehensive help files minimize end-user training.