In many modern offices, wireless headsets have become essential productivity tools. However, one of the most common frustrations for users is the need to physically lift the handset to answer or end a call—defeating the purpose of a hands-free headset. The Plantronics APV-63 Electronic Hook Switch (EHS) cable solves this problem by enabling remote call control directly from your wireless headset.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Plantronics APV-63 EHS adapter, explaining what it does, which phones and headsets it works with, and what to consider when setting it up or replacing it. The APV-63 is also known by several other identifiers: part number 38734-11, Poly part number 85R01AA, and it replaces the earlier APV-62 model.
This article is intended for IT administrators, office managers, and individual users who want to understand how to enable remote call control for their Plantronics or Poly wireless headsets with compatible desk phones.
What Is an Electronic Hook Switch (EHS) and Why Do You Need It?
An Electronic Hook Switch (EHS) is a cable or adapter that creates a communication link between your desk phone and your wireless headset. It allows the headset to electronically "tell" the phone to answer or end a call when you press the call control button on your headset. This eliminates the need for a mechanical handset lifter, like the HL10, which physically lifts the handset off the hook.
Different phone manufacturers use different EHS protocols and connectors, meaning there is no single standard cable that works with all phones. The APV-63 is specifically designed for Avaya desk phones, ensuring seamless integration and reliable performance.
What Does the Plantronics APV-63 Do?
The Plantronics APV-63 EHS adapter enables the following key functionalities:
- Remote Call Answer/End: Answer or end calls by pressing the call control button on your wireless headset, without touching the phone.
- Ring Alerts: Hear the phone's ring tone through your headset, so you never miss a call even when away from your desk.
- Mute/Unmute Control: Mute or unmute calls directly from the headset.
- Eliminates Handset Lifter: Removes the need for a mechanical HL10 Handset Lifter, providing a cleaner, more reliable solution.
The APV-63 effectively bridges your Avaya phone and Plantronics/Poly wireless headset, enabling true hands-free call management.
Which Phones Are Compatible with the APV-63?
The APV-63 is specifically designed for use with Avaya desk phones. Based on multiple sources, it is compatible with a wide range of Avaya Digital and IP phone models. The confirmed compatible models include:
Avaya Digital Phones:
- 1408, 1416
- 2410, 5410
- 6416D+M, 6424D+M
- 9404, 9408, 9504, 9508
Avaya IP Phones (one-X Deskphone Series):
- 1608, 1608-I, 1616, 1616-I
- 4600 Series: 4630
- 9600 Series: 9608, 9608G, 9611G, 9620, 9620L, 9620C, 9621G, 9630, 9630G, 9640, 9640G, 9641G, 9641GS, 9650, 9650C, 9670G
- J Series: J139, J159, J169, J179
Some sources also indicate compatibility with models like 5420 and 4610SW. It's important to note that the APV-63 is specifically optimized for Avaya phones. For other Avaya phone models, a different EHS cable, such as the APV-66, may be required
Which Headsets Are Compatible with the APV-63?
The Plantronics APV-63 works with a specific range of Plantronics (now Poly) wireless headsets. Based on multiple sources, the compatible headset series include:
Plantronics CS500 Series:
- CS510, CS520, CS530, CS540
- CS500 XD Series
Poly Savi Series:
- Savi 700 Series: W710, W720, W730, W740, W745
- Savi 8200 Series
- Savi Office Series: WO100, WO200, WO300, WO350
Other Compatible Headsets:
- Voyager 4245 Office Series
- Voyager Legend CS
Some sources also list compatibility with the Voyager Legend CS and Savi 8200 series. For earlier model headsets, a different EHS cable, such as the APV-6A, may be required.
APV-63 vs. Other EHS Cables
Plantronics/Poly offers a range of EHS cables, each designed for specific phone systems. Understanding the differences is crucial to avoid compatibility issues:
- APV-63 (38734-11 / 85R01AA): Designed for Avaya desk phones. Replaces the APV-62 cable.
- APV-64: A different EHS adapter for other phone systems (not Avaya).
- APC-43 / APC-82: Designed for Cisco IP phones.
- APV-6A: Designed for older Plantronics CS series wireless headsets.
- APV-66: Used for other Avaya phone models not compatible with the APV-63.
Always verify that you are selecting the correct EHS cable for your specific phone model and headset.
Key Features of the APV-63
The APV-63 offers several features that make it a valuable addition to any professional workspace:
- Plug-and-Play Setup: Simple installation with no complex configuration required.
- On-line Indicator (OLI) Compatibility: Features a connector for the Plantronics On-line Indicator accessory, which provides a visual cue (e.g., a light) to indicate when you are on a call.
- TAA Compliance: The 85R01AA variant is TAA compliant, making it suitable for government and federal procurement.
- RoHS Compliant: Manufactured in accordance with RoHS environmental standards.
How to Set Up the APV-63
Setting up the APV-63 is typically straightforward. The general process involves:
- Connecting the EHS Cable: Connect the APV-63 cable between your Avaya phone and your Plantronics/Poly wireless headset base station. The specific connection points may vary depending on the phone model.
- Configuring the Phone (if necessary): Some Avaya phones may require a simple setting adjustment to enable EHS functionality. For example, on some Grandstream devices (which may use similar EHS protocols), you may need to select "Plantronics EHS" mode in the phone's web interface under System Settings → Preferences.
- Testing the Connection: Once connected, test the remote answer/end functionality by pressing the call control button on your headset when a call comes in.
If you are unsure about the setup process for your specific phone model, consult your phone's user manual or contact the manufacturer for guidance.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
While the APV-63 is generally reliable, users may occasionally encounter issues. Here are some common problems and troubleshooting tips:
Headset Does Not Answer or End Calls:
- Verify that the APV-63 is securely connected to both the phone and the headset base station.
- Ensure that your headset is compatible with the APV-63 (check the list above).
- Check if your Avaya phone requires any specific configuration to enable EHS functionality. Some models may have a setting that needs to be enabled.
- Test with a different headset (if available) to isolate the issue.
No Ring Tone in Headset:
- Confirm that the APV-63 is properly connected and that your phone is configured to send ring alerts to the headset.
- Check the volume settings on both your phone and headset.
Intermittent Functionality:
- Inspect the APV-63 cable for any physical damage, such as frayed wires or bent connectors.
- Try disconnecting and reconnecting the cable to ensure a secure connection.
- If the issue persists, the cable may be faulty and require replacement.
When to Replace Your APV-63
Like any cable or electronic accessory, the APV-63 has a finite lifespan. Consider replacing it if you observe any of the following:
- Physical Damage: Visible wear, frayed cables, or bent connectors.
- Complete Failure: The EHS functionality stops working entirely, and troubleshooting does not resolve the issue.
- Intermittent Operation: The remote call control works only sometimes or is unreliable.
- Upgrading Equipment: If you upgrade to a new phone or headset that requires a different EHS cable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Plantronics APV-63?
A: The Plantronics APV-63 is an Electronic Hook Switch (EHS) cable that enables remote call control (answer/end, mute/unmute) between compatible Plantronics/Poly wireless headsets and Avaya desk phones.
Q: What are the part numbers for the APV-63?
A: The APV-63 is known by several part numbers: 38734-11, 85R01AA, and it replaces the earlier APV-62 model.
Q: Which phones are compatible with the APV-63?
A: The APV-63 is designed for Avaya desk phones, including models from the 1400, 1600, 2400, 4600, 5400, 6400, 9400, 9500, 9600, and J Series.
Q: Which headsets work with the APV-63?
A: The APV-63 works with Plantronics/Poly wireless headsets, including the CS500 Series, Savi 700 Series, Savi 8200 Series, Savi Office Series, and Voyager 4245 Office Series.
Q: What is the difference between the APV-63 and the APV-62?
A: The APV-63 is the successor to the APV-62. It replaces the older model and features compatibility with the Plantronics On-line Indicator accessory.
Q: Does the APV-63 work with Cisco phones?
A: No. The APV-63 is specifically designed for Avaya phones. For Cisco phones, you would need a different EHS cable, such as the APC-43 or APC-82.
Q: Does the APV-63 eliminate the need for a handset lifter?
A: Yes. The APV-63 electronically communicates with the phone, eliminating the need for a mechanical HL10 Handset Lifter.
Q: What is the On-line Indicator (OLI) accessory?
A: The On-line Indicator is an accessory that provides a visual cue (e.g., a light) to indicate when you are on a call. The APV-63 features compatibility with this accessory.
Q: Is the APV-63 TAA compliant?
A: Yes, the 85R01AA variant of the APV-63 is TAA compliant, making it suitable for government and federal procurement.
Q: How do I set up the APV-63?
A: Setup typically involves connecting the cable between your Avaya phone and your headset base station. Some phones may require a simple configuration change to enable EHS functionality.
Q: My headset isn't answering calls with the APV-63. What should I do?
A: First, verify all connections are secure. Second, confirm your phone and headset are compatible with the APV-63. Third, check if your phone requires any specific EHS settings to be enabled. If the issue persists, the cable may be faulty.
If you're looking for a compatible replacement for the Plantronics APV-63 Electronic Hook Switch Cable, you may also be interested in our related EHS adapter guides and replacement products for Plantronics and Poly headsets and Avaya phone systems.
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