Snom launches single-cell DECT systems for smaller sites

Snom has launched the M253 and M256 single-cell DECT systems, expanding its DECT range for smaller business sites.

Built around the Snom M250 base station, the systems are aimed at workplaces where staff need to stay reachable while moving around a site. They are designed for settings including small and medium-sized businesses, medical practices, restaurants, retail outlets, warehouses, workshops and outdoor locations.

Both packages use the same base station but pair it with different handsets for different environments. The M253 combines the M250 with the new M53 handset, while the M256 combines the M250 with the M56 handset.

The M250 base station offers an indoor range of up to 50 metres and an outdoor range of up to 300 metres. It supports up to 10 handsets from Snom's M5x series and can handle up to eight simultaneous calls.

Different Settings

The M53 handset in the M253 package is aimed at office and service environments. It has a colour display, an ergonomic keypad and HD audio, along with up to 12 hours of talk time and up to 120 hours of standby time.

The handset also uses standard AAA batteries, which should simplify maintenance for smaller organisations that do not want to rely on proprietary battery systems.

For tougher working conditions, the M256 package uses the M56 handset. It carries an IP67 rating, with a dustproof and water-resistant housing intended for use in places such as workshops, production facilities, warehouses and outdoor areas.

The M250 can also work with other devices in Snom's DECT IP 5x range, including the M55 and M56 handsets and the M58 DECT desk phone, which can be used wirelessly with the same base station.

This allows one base station to support both mobile staff and workers in fixed positions such as reception desks and point-of-sale counters. That could make the system relevant for smaller branch offices and single-site operations that want one DECT setup across different roles.

Security And Management

The systems support Power over Ethernet and use TLS and SRTP for VoIP security. They also support remote provisioning, over-the-air updates, LDAP phonebooks, centralised management and automatic configuration.

These features are intended to reduce administration for IT teams and resellers managing installations across multiple smaller sites. The products can also be integrated into existing IT and communications infrastructure.

Snom, based in Berlin, focuses on IP communications products. The launch adds to a DECT portfolio that already includes handsets and desk phones designed for professional use.

In comments released with the launch, the company presented the new products as a way to broaden the reach of its single-cell offering. The systems are positioned for organisations that do not require a multi-cell DECT deployment but still want mobile voice coverage across a modest site footprint.

"With the M253 and M256 solutions, we're offering companies DECT systems that combine professional functionality with maximum user-friendliness. The combination of the M250 base station with different handsets - from the comfortable M53 to the exceptionally robust M56 - makes the system a versatile and cost-efficient platform for a wide range of working environments," said Oliver Wittig, Senior Product Manager, Snom.