DECT Series Part 1: What is DECT?

Several wireless technologies have become well established, like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, broadcast radio, and DECT. While, in principle, these communication technologies all do the same things, like moving voice and data around delivering information between devices using radio signals, DECT has characteristics that make it stand out from the crowd.

DECT stands for Digitally Enhanced Cordless Telephony. It is a wireless digital technology that allows you to make and take calls using a cordless telephone handset. You may recognize DECT handsets as the cordless phone that is used as your home phone.

DECT is beneficial to those who rely on voice communications to do their jobs and can’t be tied to a desk with a corded handset; they do their job from anywhere on the premises (or are required to move around the premises for their job). DECT is one of the wireless industry’s best-kept secrets; DECT is the secure and reliable technology of choice for mission-critical environments (like Manufacturing, retail, hospitality, etc.) where the message must get through.

How does DECT Work?

A DECT system comprises (at least) two parts: a base station and a handset. These two parts continually communicate with each other. The base station receives data (such as incoming calls) and sends this to the handset. Then, when you talk into the handset, this data is transferred back to the base and onwards from there. Multiple base stations can be connected together in a network to cover a wider area.

This DECT Forum video will give you a quick and concise overview of the part DECT plays in today’s communications.

Check out our DECT product page for more information on what makes Spectralink DECT world-class and parts 2, 3, and 4 of this DECT video series.