I'm thinking about a fun project where I connect a vintage-style analog phone to my work computer for Microsoft Teams calls. Ideally, I want a handset with a numpad and a cradle so I can hang up after calls, just like the old days. I've seen some retro USB options but I'm not really looking for those. I want to know if it's possible to convert an analog phone for this use. I've heard it might be tricky, so I'm looking for alternative suggestions as well. I have a friend who works in electronics, and I know some basic programming, but I'm unsure how to start. Any advice would be helpful, or maybe point me to a better place to ask?
2 Answers
If you’re really into a DIY project, you could dissect the phone and fit a headset inside it. You’d have to wire it to the internal mic and speaker, or you could swap those out entirely. Just how hands-on do you want to get with this project?
You could use a Cell2Jack device with a Western Electric 2500 phone. It connects via Bluetooth to your computer, so it should work for your needs. However, I’m not sure if a Teams call would make the phone ring like normal. Still, the handset should function just fine!
I checked out Cell2Jack, and it looks promising! But will dialing out work well with Teams? That would be a neat feature to have. And I totally relate; the idea of an old-fashioned ring is tempting! But I wonder how my coworkers would react to it! ?
That’s a solid plan! I think it sounds more fun than just straightforward DIY. Plus, you'll get a unique one-of-a-kind phone!