Making Calls

Call Features and Controls

Learn about call states, in-call controls, call quality tips, and troubleshooting common call issues.

Chan

Written by Chan

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Understanding call states and features helps you make the most of your Sonafone calling experience. This guide covers everything you need to know about call controls and features.

Call States

Your calls go through several states, each indicated in the dialer interface:

Ready

The dialer is ready to make a call. You can:

  • Enter a phone number
  • Select a caller ID
  • Review call rates
  • Initiate a new call

Connecting

The call is being established. During this state:

  • The system is connecting to the destination
  • You may hear ringing or connection sounds
  • Wait for the call to connect
  • Don't hang up unless the connection fails

Ringing

The recipient's phone is ringing. You'll:

  • Hear the ringback tone
  • Wait for them to answer
  • See the "Ringing" status indicator
  • The call will connect when they answer

Active

The call is in progress. You can:

  • Speak and hear the other party
  • Use in-call controls (mute, speaker, etc.)
  • See the call timer
  • Access the keypad if needed

Ended

The call has been completed. You'll see:

  • Final call duration
  • Call cost (if available)
  • Option to call again
  • Call added to your history

In-Call Controls

While a call is active, you have access to several controls:

Mute/Unmute

Toggle your microphone on or off:

  • Mute: The other party can't hear you, but you can still hear them
  • Unmute: Resume normal two-way conversation
  • Useful for: Background noise, private conversations, multi-party calls

When muted, you'll see a visual indicator. The other party won't hear anything from your side.

Speaker Mode

Toggle speakerphone on or off:

  • Speaker on: Audio plays through your device speakers
  • Speaker off: Audio plays through headphones or earpiece
  • Useful for: Hands-free calling, group listening

Keypad

Access DTMF tones during the call:

  • Useful for: Automated systems, voicemail navigation, menu selections
  • Click the keypad icon to open the number pad
  • Enter numbers to send tones to the other party

End Call

Hang up the call:

  • Click the red "End Call" button
  • The call is immediately disconnected
  • Call details are saved to your history

Call Quality Tips

Audio Quality

For the best audio experience:

  1. Use headphones: Reduces echo and background noise
  2. Stable connection: Use a reliable internet connection (wired preferred)
  3. Close other apps: Free up bandwidth for the call
  4. Quiet environment: Minimize background noise
  5. Good microphone: Use a quality microphone if available

Internet Connection

A stable connection is crucial:

  • Wired connection: More reliable than WiFi
  • Bandwidth: Ensure sufficient upload/download speed
  • Latency: Low latency improves call quality
  • Avoid VPNs: VPNs can add latency and affect quality

Browser Settings

Optimize your browser:

  • Allow permissions: Grant microphone and audio permissions
  • Update browser: Use the latest version
  • Close tabs: Free up resources
  • Disable extensions: Some extensions can interfere

Call Recording

When available, calls can be recorded:

  • Automatic recording: Some plans include automatic recording
  • Manual recording: Start/stop recording during the call
  • Access recordings: Find recordings in your call history
  • Privacy: Both parties should be aware of recording

Recording laws vary by jurisdiction. Ensure you comply with local regulations and inform all parties when recording.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

No Audio / Can't Hear

Possible causes:

  • Volume is muted or too low
  • Browser audio permissions denied
  • Audio output device not selected
  • Internet connection issues

Solutions:

  1. Check device volume settings
  2. Verify browser audio permissions
  3. Select correct audio output device
  4. Test with headphones
  5. Check internet connection stability

Other Party Can't Hear Me

Possible causes:

  • Microphone is muted
  • Microphone permissions denied
  • Microphone not working
  • Internet upload issues

Solutions:

  1. Check mute status
  2. Verify microphone permissions
  3. Test microphone in system settings
  4. Try a different microphone
  5. Check internet upload speed

Call Drops or Disconnects

Possible causes:

  • Unstable internet connection
  • Low account balance
  • Network issues
  • Browser problems

Solutions:

  1. Check internet connection stability
  2. Verify account balance
  3. Try a different network
  4. Refresh the page and try again
  5. Use a different browser

Poor Call Quality

Possible causes:

  • Slow internet connection
  • High latency
  • Background applications
  • Hardware issues

Solutions:

  1. Use a wired connection
  2. Close bandwidth-intensive apps
  3. Check internet speed
  4. Use quality headphones/microphone
  5. Try a different browser or device

Call Won't Connect

Possible causes:

  • Insufficient balance
  • Invalid phone number
  • Destination restrictions
  • Service issues

Solutions:

  1. Check account balance
  2. Verify phone number format
  3. Try a different caller ID
  4. Check service status
  5. Contact support if issue persists

Best Practices

  1. Test your setup: Make a test call to verify everything works
  2. Monitor balance: Keep sufficient credits for your calls
  3. Use quality equipment: Good headphones and microphone improve experience
  4. Stable connection: Use reliable internet for best quality
  5. Know your numbers: Save important numbers as contacts

Still Need Help?

If you're experiencing call issues, check our troubleshooting section or contact support for assistance.

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