Dolphin Tel - FAQ's

No, Dolphin does not work over ANY type of dialup service. Dolphin requires some kind of Broadband Internet connection ( ie. Cable-Modem or ADSL/DSL). It is important to remember that before transferring your existing number, please make sure the number you are moving is NOT associated with the phone line that your ADSL/DSL runs over so when we move your phone line we don’t disconnect your ADSL/DSL service.

What is VOIP?

VOIP (Voice Over IP) allows you to make and receive phone calls through your high-speed Internet connection using a standard touch-tone phone. VOIP provides the same quality as a traditional phone service, but you receive more features and pay far less for calls around the world.

What is a router and do I need one?

A router is a network device that manages the distribution of data to and from multiple devices on that network. You may already have a router attached between a ADSL/DSL/Cable modem and a PC or you may need to purchase and install a ADSL/DSL/Cable router in your network. Most likely you will want to be able to access your computer and use your Dolphin service without disconnecting cables. A router will allow you to use both your Dolphin service and computer to surf the web and get email at the same time.
Make sure that your router is ADSL/DSL/cable compatible and provides NAT (Network Address Translation) and DHCP for your network. Most routers support this functionality. Contact the Dolphin Sales office for router sales and recommendations.

Note:

• If you are using ADSL/DSL for Internet service, check to see if your connection is configured for PPPoE, you’ll need to configure you router with this service. Some cable modem services require that the MAC address of the computer or router. Check your router's setup guide or the manufacturer's web site for more information.
• Some ADSL/DSL services require a router simply to maintain compatibility and use of their service.

Is the Dolphin service a cell phone or wireless phone service?

No. Dolphin is not a cell phone service provider, but rather a telephone service using high-speed Internet connections only. However, you can use a traditional wireless household telephone connected to the Dolphin adaptor. You can also call forward calls to your Cell phone.

Does the person I am calling need to have Dolphin service too?

No, you can call anyone or any phone. Use your Dolphin service the same as use any phone. If you call another Dolphin subscriber the call is free, anywhere in the world!

Do I need to have my computer turned on to talk on the phone?

No. Your Dolphin service works independently from your computer so your computer does not need to be turned on. You will need to have your cable/DSL modem turned on.

How much bandwidth does Dolphin use while making a phone call?

Dolphin service consumes approximately 100kb of bandwidth to complete an average ten-minute call over the Internet.

Do I need to speak through the computer to use your service?

No. Dolphin service operates independently of the computer. You speak through a telephone connected to the Dolphin provided adapter.

Note:

Dolphin service does support SoftPhone clients for use over your PC or laptop. A SoftPhone client is software that, once installed and executed, allows your computer with a microphone and speakers to act as a phone directly connected to your Dolphin service. Any SoftPhone program that you wish to use with your Dolphin service must be SIP 2.0 / RTP compatible. Quality of sound will be dependent on your computer’s audio equipment.

What types of telephones work with your service?

Most touch tone analog phones of your choice can be used with your Dolphin Adapter. Corded or cordless telephones work exceptionally well. Many cordless models allow users to deploy multiple phone base stations throughout the house.

How Can I use multiple phone extensions with the phone adapter?

The most common solution is to purchase cordless phones that offer multiple base stations. You can purchase these from any Radio Shack or London Drugs stores.

Is Dolphin service Mac compatible?

Yes. Dolphin is compatible with Macs.

What area codes does Dolphin offer?

Currently Dolphin offers 604 area codes, however, if you have a request for an area code, please contact sales@dolphintel.com
We have the facilities to offer many other area codes that are not listed.

How do you bill for services?

Dolphin only offers convenient online billing. Your credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or American Express) or direct Debit is charged automatically on a monthly basis. Your account will be activated upon sign up. However, your billing cycle begins when you have received the Dolphin phone adapter and have successfully plugged it in.
Each month we deduct your balance automatically from the credit card or Direct Debit account you provided at signup. You will be sent a statement via email detailing your long Distance call log and charges..
If you have a specific question about your billing, feel free to send an email to billing@dolphintel.com

What if there is a problem with my credit card?

If your automatic monthly credit card payment cannot be processed for any reason, we will notify you immediately by email.
• If payment is not received after ten days, your outbound calling service will be suspended for 10 days.
• If your payment is not received after 20 days, your service will be suspended entirely pending complete and full payment of any and all outstanding account charges.
• If after 30 days, your account balance has not been paid in full your Dolphin service account will be deactivated. You will be charged a $19.99 reactivation fee.
• After 60 days, the account will be terminated. If your account is terminated, you will have to re-subscribe to our service.

Can I change my rate plan at any time?

You can change your rate plan—with no additional charges—as often as you want. When changing rate plans, you may choose to have the change take effect immediately or at the end of your billing period. If you choose to change your rate plan immediately, your service will be pro-rated for the period it is on the old plan and the new plan.
There is no charge for changing your billing plan, and you can make the change yourself, at any time, with your Dolphin Account ID.
Feel free to contact us at billing@dolphintel.com with any questions.

Are there any hidden costs with Dolphin?

No. Part of Dolphins simplicity is having no hidden costs. When you sign up for service, you will be provide a dolphin adapter and the plan of your choice. In addition, you pay a one-time $14.95 fee for shipping and handling. We charge 6% Canadian Goods and Service Tax on all service charges. International and long Distance calls are billed on a per minute basis.