Category: General

With the rollout of 4G and 5G networks, voice communication technologies have evolved significantly. Two key technologies in this space are VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and VoNR (Voice over New Radio). While both enable high-quality voice calls, they are optimized for different generations of mobile networks and bring unique advantages to users and service providers. At SAPL Tech, we are committed to helping our readers understand emerging technologies that shape the future of communication. In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between VoLTE and VoNR and explore why they matter for both businesses and consumers. ✅ What is VoLTE? VoLTE (Voice over LTE) is a technology that allows voice calls to be made over 4G LTE networks instead of traditional 2G or 3G networks. Before VoLTE, voice calls were handled by older circuit-switched networks, while data traffic was carried over LTE. VoLTE merges both voice and data over the same IP-based network. Key Features of VoLTE High-definition voice quality: VoLTE provides clearer, crisp sound compared to 3G voice calls. Simultaneous voice and data: Users can browse the internet or stream content while on a call. Faster call setup: Calls connect quicker than traditional methods. Improved battery efficiency: Devices consume less power compared to older voice technologies. ✅ What is VoNR? VoNR (Voice over New Radio) is the next step in voice communication, designed to work over 5G networks. While VoLTE optimizes voice calls over 4G, VoNR uses the full capabilities of 5G New Radio (NR) technology to deliver superior voice services. Key Features of VoNR Ultra-low latency: Enhanced responsiveness for real-time communication. Better coverage and reliability: Utilizes advanced network slicing and beamforming techniques. Enhanced voice and video experience: Supports higher bandwidth for seamless multimedia communication. End-to-end 5G experience: Reduces dependence on 4G fallback, ensuring consistent 5G quality. ✅ VoLTE vs VoNR – A Side-by-Side Comparison Feature VoLTE (4G) VoNR (5G) Network Generation 4G LTE 5G New Radio Voice Quality HD Voice Enhanced HD & 3D audio Latency Moderate (tens of ms) Ultra-low (<10 ms) Simultaneous Data Use Yes Yes Battery Consumption Optimized for 4G Further optimized for 5G Reliability Good in 4G coverage areas Better with 5G network Support for Multimedia Limited to basic video calls Richer video, AR/VR-enabled communication Fallback Falls back to 3G/2G if needed Can fallback to 4G if needed but prefers full 5G ✅ Why Does It Matter? For End UsersUsers get improved voice clarity, faster call connections, and the ability to multitask without interruptions. With VoNR, the experience reaches new heights with ultra-low latency and better audio/video interaction. For BusinessesEnterprises using VoNR can enable better customer service, deploy real-time collaboration tools, and enhance connectivity in critical operations. For Service ProvidersBoth technologies help operators deliver modern, efficient, and cost-effective services. VoNR especially prepares telecom providers for the demands of smart cities, autonomous systems, and IoT integration. ✅ Challenges Ahead Network infrastructure upgrade: VoNR requires full 5G deployment, which is still ongoing in many regions. Device compatibility: Not all smartphones and devices currently support VoNR. Security considerations: With higher data transmission, robust encryption and privacy protocols are essential. ✅ Conclusion VoLTE and VoNR represent significant advancements in voice communication. VoLTE revolutionized how we use voice services over LTE networks, while VoNR is set to redefine communication in the 5G era with ultra-fast, reliable, and immersive experiences. At SAPL Tech, we believe that staying informed about these technologies helps users and businesses make smarter choices in telecom services. As 5G adoption expands, VoNR will play a critical role in transforming communication standards globally. 📢 Explore More with SAPL Tech Visit sapltech.com for in-depth articles, expert insights, and the latest updates in networking and telecom technologies.

RMA’s are difficult, actually tough. Follow-ups are more exhausting. And When you’re juggling multiple sites/cases—each with its own timeline, vendor process, and unexpected delays—it starts to feel like a logistical marathon. Trust me you can never get. I have been working as a System Integrator for quite some time and have processed numerous RMAs for various OEM’s. We chase updates that never gets updated, we get stuck in loops of silence, and often end up sending or  repeating the same information to different support agents. The frustration keeps building — the client is yelling, and the system feels unreliable. You’re already tense because you know that one issue will trigger another, like a chain reaction. You’re just waiting to fix this one problem so you can move on to the next one that’s inevitably connected to it.And then, you remind yourself — it’s not just about a faulty device. It’s about accountability, upholding standards, and protecting the integrity of the system you’ve worked so hard to maintain. And that’s when the frustration deepens — because what’s really at stake is the trust you’ve earned over years of dedication, long hours, and striving for perfection. A trust that now feels fragile, and with it, your own sense of peace. Not the first TAC rodeo. I want to share a recent experience — and why I’ve always trusted Cisco to deliver, even when things get tough. From RMAs to relentless follow-ups, it wasn’t easy. But once again, Cisco proved why they stand out: reliability, responsiveness, and results. And why are Enterprises called Enterprises?Because they take on big things. Complex operations, high stakes, and the constant demand to keep everything running — smoothly, securely, and at scale. It’s not just a company; it’s an undertaking. And that’s exactly what enterprise solutions are built for — to support these bold, structured, high-impact missions. That’s why Cisco fits — built for the enterprise, by a company that understands what it takes. Walkthrough Recently, my team took over a project for a highly reputable and prestigious client to maintain it’s existing infra and provide robust video conferencing & streaming system. The stream was required to be broadcast locally and to multiple sites, based on the demand. The initial takeover was challenging, as multiple agencies were involved. CISCO SAPL However, we ensured smooth operations by assigning one of our tech engineers as the resident engineer on-site to manage everything. Everything was aligned with OEM’s and licenses were renewed as required. Streaming service & live braodcasting was tested multiple times at different remote sites for quality and efficiency. The Day One fine day, the Cisco Codec Pro began acting up. It was integrated with multiple third-party devices— microphones, DSP, VC cameras, HDMI Switcher and other. The issue reported was that the codec was intermittently releasing the audio ports connected with microphone/line inputs and line outputs. because of that No Audio  was  heard  or sent thru device, only video was visible. We immediately initiated diagnostics, but since other agencies were already present on-site—better equipped, experienced, and trusted by the client—they took the lead while we were asked to stay on standby. Hours passed, and by the time we got our hands on the system, it was too late—the hardware had already been diagnosed as faulty.Throughout this journey, the Cisco Account Manager was consistently in touch, providing timely support, guidance, and escalation when needed. That kind of partnership — where the vendor stands shoulder to shoulder with you — is what sets Cisco apart. Given the site’s VVIP status, there was no time to lose. We raised a support case with Cisco TAC right away, provided the required details, and I prepared for the follow-up from the TAC support engineer. In the meantime, I also began downloading logs from the faulty device to share with TAC, hoping to expedite the resolution process. Now comes the golden part. About 18 minutes after raising the case, I received a call from Cisco TAC support. The greeting was warm from both ends—professional, yet friendly. We quickly got into the case. I shared all the details I had and began answering follow-up questions. Then came the moment that defines why I trust Cisco. The Defining Moment — moment of truth. Cisco TAC Engineer: “Please attach the log bundle from the Codec Pro to the case at this time.”Me: “I’m still in the process of downloading the logs. However, given the VVIP status of the client and site, I request we proceed with the RMA.”Cisco TAC Engineer: “How can you be sure the device is faulty? It’s integrated with multiple third-party devices—any of them could be the issue.”Me: “We have another Codec Pro installed in a different room. We swapped it with the faulty one, and everything worked perfectly again—input and output audio functioned as expected.”Cisco TAC Engineer: “Fair enough. If you’ve swapped it with the same model and it’s working, I’ll proceed with the RMA as requested.” That was the defining moment—the fine line of trust I’ve always seen with Cisco. No unnecessary back-and-forth. No suspicion. No delays. Just clear communication, decisive action, and a go-to attitude. From opening the TAC case to getting RMA approval and submission—the entire process took less than 90 minutes. That includes a smooth, professional, and genuinely friendly conversation about the issue. Within 15 minutes, I had the RMA form. And in under 20 hours, the replacement hardware was at my desired location, no question asked. Rest, my team along with help of another agency which has  been there  and supported us from time to time, move ahead with all required actions for system readiness. I would like to extend my special thanks to the existing team that has been at site for the past several years, as well as to our Cisco counterparts for their unwavering support and collaboration throughout this journey. Because when it matters most, they don’t just support—you feel backed. My takeaway For Smooth Cisco RMA Process Keep Contract details handy Keep all the SO number …

Read more “Is Cisco Support Worth It? My RMA Experience Explained”