Frequently Asked Questions
Below are general Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and answers. These FAQs have been organized into categories to make it easy for you to learn about Sorenson VRS (SVRS), the VP-200 videophone, and the many features that are accessible through SVRS. Select the tab below that represents the category you are interested in. Under each tab, questions are grouped into more specific topics. Click the question you are interested in to view the answer, or scroll down the page to review all of the questions and answers together in that category.
Sorenson VP-200 Videophone Questions
Is it true that "hearing" CODA, interpreters, or persons can receive free Sorenson VRS equipment (videophone)?
Is it true that deaf and hard-of-hearing persons can receive free Sorenson VRS equipment (videophone)?
What is the difference between the Sorenson VP-100 or Sorenson VP-200 videophone and the D-Link i2eye videophone? Why should I get a Sorenson videophone?
Can I connect to Sorenson VRS if my company (or home) network has a firewall?
Is it true that "hearing" CODA, interpreters, or persons can receive free Sorenson VRS equipment (videophone)?
We thank everyone for their interest in Sorenson VRS equipment (videophone); however, we are not able to send hearing persons a videophone because the VRS equipment is intended for deaf and hard-of-hearing persons who use ASL. At Sorenson Communications our mission is to break down communication barriers for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Currently, we are working to make it possible for every deaf person in the U.S. to have access to Sorenson Video Relay Service (VRS).
Is it true that deaf and hard-of-hearing persons can receive free Sorenson VRS equipment (videophone)?
Yes, deaf or hard-of-hearing persons who use ASL to communicate can receive free Sorenson VRS equipment (videophone). However, an application for free VRS equipment (videophone) must be submitted. The Sorenson VRS sales team will first check to make sure that:
- The application has been completely filled out
- The deaf or hard-of-hearing person has a high-speed Internet connection of at least 256K
- An installer is available to set up the VRS equipment (videophone) for the deaf or hard-of-hearing person
Due to the high demand for the free Sorenson VRS equipment (videophone), it can sometimes take several weeks for the equipment to be installed.
What is the difference between the Sorenson VP-100 or Sorenson VP-200 videophone and the D-Link i2eye videophone? Why should I get a Sorenson videophone?
Sorenson Communications created both videophones to work with a standard TV and a high-speed Internet connection. However, only the free Sorenson VP-100 and VP-200 videophones come with customized software, including the following features:
- Easy-to-use "Dial VRS" Button - The speed dial button on the main screen makes it easy to quickly place a VRS call without having to go through a lot of steps. Deaf callers simply hit the "Dial VRS" button and then type in the number of the hearing person they wish to reach. There is no need for the deaf person to sign the phone number again to the interpreter because the videophone automatically passes this information to the interpreter.
- Full Screen Self View Modes - The full screen self view mode makes it possible for the deaf person to see their entire upper-body image.
- Redial Option - The redial option allows deaf persons to quickly redial the previous number called.
- Expanded Contacts List - The expanded contacts list enables deaf persons to enter in a long list of contacts and their phone numbers. Once these numbers are entered the deaf person can easily scroll through the list and use the speed dial function to quickly place a call.
- Missed call list - The missed call list lets you know when you have missed a call and, when available, supplies information about the missed call.
- Ability to Receive Future Features - The Sorenson VP-100 and VP-200 videophones also have the capability to include new features as Sorenson Communications releases them.
Deaf and hard-of-hearing persons can apply for the free Sorenson VP-200 videophone by filling out an application. Once the application has been approved, an installer will set up the videophone for deaf and hard-of hearing persons who have a high-speed Internet connection in place.
Note: Sorenson Communications partnered with D-Link to create the i2eye version of the Sorenson VP-100. The D-Link i2eye videophone can be purchased at retail stores such as Best Buy for approximately $250.00. Both videophones will produce high-quality video when connected to a high-speed Internet connection.
Can I connect to Sorenson VRS if my company (or home) network has a firewall?
Yes, when you use Sorenson VRS to call other users over the Internet, several IP ports are required to establish the outbound connection. If you use a firewall to connect to the Internet, it must be configured so that the IP ports are not blocked. For more information on configuring your network, please see the Support section of this Web site.
