Review: TrendNet ClearSky internet telephony

With the huge success of the free VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) telephone service Skype, it comes as no surprise that more than a few third-party vendors are looking for a piece of the action.

TrendNet is the latest company to produce a Skype accessory in the form of a wireless handset.

The ClearSky uses Bluetooth to communicate with a PC. If your computer isn't already Bluetooth enabled, just plug in the bundled Bluetooth USB adapter.

It will then link up directly with Skype (it won't work with any other VoIP services) and allow you to make and receive calls just as with a standard DECT phone.

The range of the Bluetooth connection will vary depending on the environment, but in most households you'll be able to stray between 15 and 20m from the PC.

Installation threw up a few problems, but by downloading the latest drivers from the TrendNet website, we were able to remedy these. Each time Skype is fired up, you'll need to hit the Contacts button on the phone to download your Skype address book.

Once up and running, we found call quality to be reasonable, although certainly not exceptional. When wandering around the house while on a call, we also experienced some interference.

The lithium-ion battery will keep going for up to six hours talk time or two and a half days on standby. The phone charges through a USB cable, so there's no need for a bulky power adapter.

The phone is reasonably simple to use and there aren't too many settings to play around with. You can select from one of four unappealing ringtones, alter the speaker volume and change your Skype status.

Since the phone takes over as a PC's default audio device, any music you play while it's connected will be outputted through the phone. The only way to get around this is to change the sound settings in Control Panel or disconnect the phone, which isn't ideal.

Another requirement of VoIP phones such as this is that the PC it's connected to must be switched on for you to make or receive a Skype call.

Skype devotees will find the ClearSky undoubtedly appealling. However, those who just make the occasional call should probably save their money and stick to using a headset.

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Verdict: For a device that does so much, it’s very easy to set up. A great way to set up multiple phone extensions with individual internet telephone numbers.
Rating: 5/5
Price: £139