PABX systems are of many types that come with various capacities and features. But, there are few things you need to consider before buying this office equipment for your office.

1. Size of PABX

The size of the PBX or PABX means the number of trunk lines and the number of extension lines. Trunk lines are nothing but CO (Call office or Central Office) lines which are in connection to the Public Switched Telephone Network for communicating with the outside world. The extension lines are the number of extension lines to be installed in the office. Based on the number of important posts that need constant telephone connectivity, you can decide on the required number of extension lines.

2. Upgrades

Before buying a PBX system, its upgradability or expansion ability is an important factor to consider. Certain PBX models can be upgraded to a certain number of trunk lines or number of extensions. The cost of upgrade may vary from existing number of ports in trunk and extensions as well. So, consider up-gradation cost carefully.

3. Price

Price is an important factor to be considered especially in India. But, see to that you do not compromise quality for price. There are many auxiliary costs with PBX systems like wiring, power supply backup, battery, racks, etc. A few PBX systems are cheaper with same configuration, but may not perform well under load. One should also consider maintenance cost of a PBX system and its support feature before deciding to buy one.

3. Feature

Since PBX systems offer many different features, it is good to check for the necessary features like,

• Call transfer
• Caller Id
• Call Conferencing
• Auto attendant
• Call Forwarding

If you are also looking for advanced features like voicemail and Computer Telephony Integration, then the PBX system may cost more. Yet, they prove to be very useful in the long run.