Spectralink S series or 7000 series
The Spectralink 7000 range of DECT handsets was introduced in 2010 and spanned 12 different models including budget models, office use, devices for healthcare and industry and lone worker devices. In 2024, the 7000 series was superseded by the S series, which brings a rationalised and focused set of handsets with only 3 handset models and accessories such as chargers, battery chargers, multi-chargers and other accessories which are common throughout the range.
S33 – General use handset
S35 – Rugged, Commercial grade handset
S37 – Rugged, Commercial grade handset with lone worker / man-down capability
The S Series handsets are officially supported for the following controllers
- IP-DECT Server 400, 6500 and VIP One from software PCS22Cb which was released in Q3 2022
- DECT Server 2500 and 8000 from software PCS23Ab which was released in Q1 2023
- S1000 Controller
The S Series handsets are not supported on legacy controllers or on current controllers running older versions of software. This does not necessarily mean that the S Series handsets won’t work but what is does mean is that they are not supported. Remember that handsets cannot be returned unless they are faulty in which case they will be repaired under warranty. Handsets that do not work properly on legacy controllers cannot be returned, so it is important to order the right model.
Equally importantly, the S series handsets will not work on the older MKI (Mark 1) DECT Base Stations
MKI Base Stations were End of Sale in October 2013 so if the site has base stations purchased and installed before then it is likely that the S series handset will NOT work on that system and 7000 series (or older) must be used. Check with ICON for availability of 7000 series handsets.
To confirm which version of IP Base Stations are installed at a site the easiest method is to look at the bottom of the IP Base Stations.
MKI base stations just have a single network port.
A quick double check is to take a base station off the wall and look at the label on the back. In the example below, part number 0233 7400 indicates that it is a MKII IP Base Station. MKI IP Base Stations have a part number of 02337300.
The S series handsets WILL work on MKII (Mark 2) DECT Base Stations
If the controller and base stations are not using the latest firmware version, the handsets can still be used, but will be using a non-approved infrastructure and the handset will not have full functionality (but will have basic functions of make a call, receive a call and transfer a call). Be aware that, if there are any issues with the handset when using this type of infrastructure, ICON will provide support on a “best endeavours” basis but as it is a non-approved infrastructure, we cannot request assistance or fixes from Spectralink.
In order to use the full functionality of the S series handset and have an approved infrastructure, the controller and the base stations must have the latest firmware version. If the controller and the base stations do not have the latest firmware, they must be upgraded. To do this the controller must have a current Software Assurance licence which provides access to the latest controller and base station firmware. IF YOU ARE UNSURE OF THE FIRMWARE VERSION AND/OR STATUS OF THE SOFTWARE ASSURANCE, TALK TO ICON TECHNICAL FOR GUIDANCE.
If the system has a current Software Assurance licence, it is possible for the DECT engineer to upgrade the system firmware. IT IS IMPORTANT TO DISCUSS THE UPGRADE METHOD WITH ICON TECHNICAL BEFORE ATTEMPTING A FIRMWARE UPGRADE.
Firmware upgrades can take 2-3 hours depending on the age and firmware level of the controller and base stations. ICON can provide remote technical resource to do the firmware upgrade. Talk to your account manager for more information.
Some DECT systems utilise messaging systems (e.g. Integrator, FUSION or BlueSky Messaging). In order to use messaging with the S series handsets, the controller and base stations must be using the latest firmware. Messaging on the7000 series is unaffected.
Above all, if you are a trained engineer and you need advice please talk to your account manager.