Catch A Call from International Electronics, Inc.

Our Review

Enclosed in the understated box is a very robust and attractive translucent blue device, accompanied by a power supply, telephone cord and simple instruction set.

The connection jacks on the back of the device are clearly marked as "FAX" "PHONE" "MODEM" "WALL JACK" and "PWR." It took us approximately 5 minutes to connect the device as directed by the included diagram. No dismantling of the computer, or software installation was necessary, only a standard modem connection.

When the unit is plugged into power, a small green light indicates that it is on and ready for action.

Once connected, its operation is fully automatic, provided you have "Call Waiting" which is a phone company provided service. When your computer is not connected to the internet, your phones will ring normally and, if connected, your answering machine will pick up your calls as usual.

While online, when a call or fax comes in, the Catch-A-Call flashes a red light and will ring, (not your phones). If you decide to answer, simply pick up the telephone connected to the Catch-A-Call and your internet connection will be put on hold. It's a great alternative to missing the call completely and having your callers receive a busy signal while you are online, (which in the reviewers case would be hours!)

It's that simple. We found it to be reliable and did not affect online performance in the least.

To receive a fax while online, when the Catch-A-Call rings to indicate an incoming call waiting call, pick up the phone or fax receiver to get the call. If the call is a fax, place the FAX machine into "Manual Receive Mode," then hang up the handset.

If you wish to have the Catch-A-Call automatically connect to your fax machine, consider the Catch-A-Call Gold (HOT LINK TO Catch-A-Call GOLD) which will always listen for a fax tone, even while you're away or not online.

Due to the way that the Internet Service Providers work, you have a limited amount of time to finalize the call before you are disconnected from the internet. This ranges between a couple of seconds to approximately 30 seconds. If you do get disconnected, by clicking on the "Refresh" or "Reload" button, you will reestablish your internet connection and not lose your place.

A Caller ID unit and surge protector can also be connected without affecting it's operation in any way.

We found this product to be a clever and simple alternative to adding a second line for an internet connection which could easily cost $20 - $50/month. But the Catch-A-Call does require phone company provided "Call Waiting" which can be purchased at a low cost monthly fee of approximately $3.00 - $5.00/month, (check with your local telephone provider).

If you wish not to answer the calls that come in while you are online, you will not lose your connection, but the calls will not be picked up by an answering machine. To perform this function, you would also need to subscribe to phone company provided voicemail.

Be sure to check with your local phone company for the availability of "Call Waiting" or "Call Waiting/Caller ID" in your area.

Overall, we give it a "thumbs up" for simplicity, performance and value…and it is made in America!

Customer Testimonials

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