Privacy Call ID Screener

Our Review (THIS PRODUCT HAS BEEN DISCONTINUED)

Replaced by: FAXFIREWALL

This model was designed for enhancing Caller ID service, to block all unwanted calls with a user defined 'Invited' and 'Excluded' list of callers. Anonymous callers or those who block their Caller ID information cannot ring your phone unless they 'unblock' their ID or you've given them an private code.

The sleek and sophisticated design gives the user a hint of the robust engineering and construction that went into these units.

Connecting the Privacy Call was as easy as connecting the provided telephone cord from the wall jack to the "Telco" port of the unit, connecting the power cord to "12VAC" jack and wall receptacle, the telephone to the "Phone" port, and the answering machine to the "Answer" port. A diagram was provided to reassure us of the proper setup.

From there, we were ready to answer and screen incoming calls. The unit performed flawlessly in this function. Our phones did not ring until we entered a number onto our 'Invited' list, or one of the three private codes was entered. After a call came in that we wanted to 'Invite' a single press of the yellow button on the front of the device placed the caller on the 'Invited' list. Two presses would have placed the caller on the 'Excluded' list. Numbers can also be entered at once using a touch tone phone connect to the device. Entire area codes, prefixes and number sets can be added to either list using the 'Wildcard' feature, by replacing any number with the symbol '#.' For instance, we could 'Exclude' all calls from area code 813 by entering '813 ### ####.'

Those on the 'Invited' list avoid the announcement altogether. Those not on the 'Invited' list or without the correct private code are handled by our answering device, without ringing the phones. With the "Privacy Mode" on, unfamiliar callers could not leave a message while familar could leave a message with ease. When we called from a number on the 'Excluded' list, we never heard the outgoing message, and could not enter a private code. Our call was simply dropped. Wow! Now that's call blocking!

Now we were ready to try more of the functions and experiment with more programming.

All programming is easily performed from the telephone(s) attached to the Privacy Call. For instance, to change the first incoming message (there are two), it is a simple matter of picking up the handset, pressing '#-#' then '1-1', then record our message (up to 25 seconds). Here is an example of a personalized message that you can easily record: "You have reached 555-1212. Invited callers, please enter your code now, or leave a message. Thank you!"

To change the user access codes (four unique codes are possible) the key entry was '#-#' then '3-1' then the code we chose '5-5'. Now invited callers could ring through after the announcement begins by pressing '5-5'

It took us only minutes to begin to configure the unit to our specifications. Included in the instructions and on the back of the unit is a simple list of the programming codes, should anything need to change. Here are some examples of the default features that can be changed with ease:

• Turn Distinctive ringing on and off;
• Restrict outbound '900' and '976' numbers;
• Change access codes;
• Change outgoing message;
• Turn Call Forwarding on and off;
• Change Call Forwarding number;
• Place numbers on the 'Invited' and 'Excluded' list;
• Engage daily 'Do Not Disturb' period.
  

A feature that impressed us was the 'Call Forwarding' feature. Using a single line and '3-way Calling' service from our telephone provider, we were able to set the ID Screener to forward all unanswered calls to our cell phone or alternate number. A second recordable outgoing message let's the callers know that they are being connected. Cleverly, either all or just pre-screened calls can be forwarded.

One of the latest innovations introduced with this model is the 'Do Not Disturb' feature. Set it to stop all calls from ringing your phone during the hours you set, either on a one time or daily basis.

Since the Privacy Call only rings those phones connected to it, we experimented with normal household telephone wiring and found that, even though not outlined in the manufacturer's instructions, the Privacy Call could be wired into the main incoming phone line and it would ring every telephone in the house. Due to it's exceptional design and engineering, the Privacy Call can be programmed from any phone on the premesis and can be placed wherever the main line first appears. However, we would recommend using the services of a qualified telephone vendor to install the necessary jacks, if not already present. If ringing of all phones is not necessary, the Privacy Call can be installed in a central location and will ring those devices connected to it. Even then, calls can be made or answered from any phone without losing any of the Privacy Call's functions.

If you would like to receive faxes, or if you support a dedicated line just for faxes, you can eliminate the monthly fees by installing the Privacy Call PLUS or Privacy Call Receptionist on your primary line without interfering with regular calls.

Customer Testimonials

"(The Privacy Call) allows only callers I know to ring my phones. And if someone calls in who doesn't know our code they can press '1' to leave a message, otherwise, hangs-up on them. It's been a great relief to know we can answer the phone now without being harassed by telemarketers." Michael, Charlotte, NC

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• How complicated is the installation process?
• How long does it take to install?
• Will it work without Caller ID?
• How long must a caller wait before they enter their code to ring through?
• Do I create my own messages?
• What connections are required?
• How does the Privacy Call eliminate computer-generated telemarketing calls?
• Is there a warranty on the Privacy Call?
  

How complicated is the installation process?

The unit plugs into a normal phone system using phone jacks. Simply take the phone jack which was plugged into your phone, and plug it into the Privacy Call. Then take the line that comes with the Privacy Call and connect it to your telephone. Plug in the Power Unit to the nearest electric outlet, and you are ready!

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How long does it take to install?

Less than 5 minutes.

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Will it work with Caller ID?

Yes. However, all callers will be treated as 'Anonymous' callers and must enter a private code to ring your phone. Also, the 'Do Not Disturb' feature gets it's time information from Caller ID and would not be available without Caller ID service.

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How long must a caller wait before they enter their code to ring through?

Immediate access can be gained at any time during the message.

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Do I create my own messages?

Yes. A 25 second message can be recorded in your own voice. Sample messages are provided, or create your own.

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What connections are required?

The Privacy Call comes with a power cord and telephone cable, and that is all that is needed. The power cord plugs into your electrical outlet and the Privacy Call. The cable is used to connect your phone outlet to the Privacy Call.

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How does the Privacy Call eliminate computer-generated telemarketing calls?

The computer dialer obviously will not hear the Privacy Call's recorded message. However, when a computer dialer hears a recorded-- rather than a human - voice, it will simply hang up. The computer will not know to remove your name from the list, but it will most likely do so after a number of unsuccessful attempts.

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Is there a warranty on the Privacy Call?

Yes. The Privacy Call is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of 1 year.

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