Microsoft Releases Response Point SP1, Names New SIP Provider

As promised, Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) has released Service Pack 1 for its Response Point IP PBX. 

Response Point is a software-based IP PBX that is packaged as an appliance by three OEMs – Aastra Technologies Ltd., DLink Corp. and Quanta Computer Inc.

Response Point SP1 builds on version 1, released in fall 2007, with new features, including SIP trunking for VoIP calling; click-to-call functionality for any contact using the Assistant software; a call-history log; and the ability to select music for parked calls and hold time.

SP1 is a free download that takes  minutes for a customer or partner to install.

“This is a day we’ve been anticipating for several months,” said Mike Yang, vice president of Quanta Computer on Tuesday. “Service Pack 1 is an impressive update that we think all Syspine users will really embrace.”

Aastra unveiled its Response Point phone system Tuesday, coinciding with the SP1 release. D-Link introduced its VoiceCenter equipment last year.

Meanwhile, Microsoft has named Junction Networks as another preferred SIP trunking and gateway service provider for the Response Point system. New Global Telecom and Cbeyond already have been dubbed official Response Point SIP providers.

The SIP voice service is preconfigured in the Response Point Administrator software, so a small business only needs a working Internet connection to acquire service and lines. The process, according to Junction Networks, takes just minutes.