8×8 + Systemax = VoIP PC


Sometimes I just like saying “VoIP” even when it doesn’t pertain to anything I’m actually talking aobut. VoIP. Anyhoo this time it does though as PC maker Systemax (the house-brand for TigerDirect.com) announced a new partnership with VoIP-and-videophone communications company 8×8, Inc. yesterday (yes, I know this is late, but I wasn’t around yesterday and that doesn’t mean the world stopped) and the creation of Packet8 Softalk-enabled Systemax PCs.

What’s that you say? You can already get VoIP on your computer. Yeah well, this is different ’cause you’ll be able to make and receive voice and video calls directly from the computers by plugging a regular analog phone into the PC’s built-in phone port.

The Systemax Venture H352V, Venture HU H531V and Venture HU B531V) are currently available with a $50 mail-in rebate with Packet8 Softalk Premium service activation. After rebate, the PCs range in price from $299.99 to $599.99. Packet8 Softalk Premium offers unlimited, toll-free in-network calling as well as outbound calling to traditional PSTN, along with advanced calling features including voicemail, caller ID, call waiting, call forwarding and many more for $5.99 per month and a one-time activation fee of $9.99.

Full specs for the three systems are after the jump.


Systemax Venture H352V ($299.99 after $50 mail-in rebate)

* Intel Celeron D 352 3.2GHz processor
* Microsoft Windows XP Home
* 256MB Memory
* 80GB Hard Drive
* 52x32x52 CDRW Drive
* 17” CRT
* Systemax Keyboard & mouse
* Speakers

Systemax Venture HU H531V ($499.99 after $50 mail-in rebate)

* Intel Pentium 4 531 3.06GHz processor,
* Microsoft Windows XP Home,
* Microsoft Works Suite,
* 512MB Memory,
* 250GB Hard Drive,
* 16x Dual Layer DVD Burner,
* 19’ LCD monitor,
* Systemax Keyboard and Mouse
* Speakers

Systemax Venture HU B531V ($599.99 after $50 mail-in rebate)

* Intel Pentium 4 531 3.06GHz processor
* Microsoft Windows XP Professional
* Microsoft Works Suite
* 1024MB Memory
* 250GB Hard Drive
* 16x Dual Layer DVD Burner
* 19” LCD
* Systemax Keyboard & Mouse
* Speakers