Back to Blog
Tech

snom button mode to the rescue

Published on:

May 2, 2018

Addressing a challenge with LDAP, VoIP phones lack the ability to write new contacts to the address book. For users of snom phones, a solution involves utilizing the snom button mode, specifically the "keyevent" mode with the F_ADR_BOOK parameter. This configuration enables users to add phone numbers directly from the phone keyboard, bypassing the need for PBX login and web interface use. This versatile approach can also be applied to other functions and is similarly available for Grandstream, HTek, and Yealink phones.

Asad Khan

One problem with LDAP is VoIP phones have no way of writing a new contact to the address book. LDAP is a very powerful protocol, but it seems VoIP phones don’t use it to write an address book entry. If I’m wrong please let me know - I’d be happy to know about it.

We had a customer using snom phones who needed a simpler way for users to add phone numbers right from the phone keyboard, without logging into the PBX and using the web interface. We saw two possibilities for this: the first would be to use the snom XML and program a small application to collect user input and send it back to the PBX; the second would be to use the local phone address book along with the LDAP address book.

The problem with the XML solution is it would be usable only from the snom phones and would obviously require changes in the PBX.

Using the phone address book is a lot easier and is even possible without making any changes in the PBX. We actually already have a "backup mode" for snom phones - we can set anything we want in the button configuration of the phone. By using the "keyevent" mode with the F_ADR_BOOK parameter, we can set the phone to call up the address book when a user presses a specific button.

This seems to be the easiest solution for now. The beauty of it is it can also be used for other functions; the list of available functions on the phones is quite lengthy.

P.S. We have similar modes also for Grandstream, HTek phones and Yealink phones. 

Latest Articles

View All
Announcement

The Vodia PBX Integrates with Fanvil Y501 and X305 Microsoft Teams Solutions for Nursing Homes

The Vodia PBX integrates with Fanvil’s Y501 intercoms and X305 big-button IP phones to deliver a robust Microsoft Teams telephony solution for nursing homes and healthcare environments. This setup enables seamless communication between administrative staff, caregivers, and residents, while supporting features like emergency calling, paging, and DECT mobility. By combining Vodia’s Microsoft-certified PBX with Teams-compliant Fanvil devices, care facilities gain a reliable, flexible, and fully integrated communication system tailored to their unique needs.

July 7, 2025
Announcement

Vodia PBX Now Supports AWS Graviton Processors: Slash Your Cloud Communication Costs

Vodia PBX now supports AWS Graviton processors, bringing more efficient and affordable cloud communications to businesses of all sizes. By running natively on ARM-based Graviton instances across all major Linux distributions, Vodia enables up to 40% better price performance compared to traditional x86 systems. This means lower AWS infrastructure costs, reduced energy consumption, and no compromise on reliability or features. It’s a timely upgrade for businesses looking to modernize their phone systems while optimizing spending.

July 4, 2025
Webinar

The Vodia - Fanvil Hospitality Communications Webinar | Presentation Slides and Recording Now Available

This webinar demonstrates how integrating Fanvil’s IP Hotel Devices with the Vodia PBX delivers smart, guest-focused communication solutions that enhance operational efficiency and personalize guest experiences. It covers practical strategies for easy deployment and highlights Vodia’s AI-powered features that automate hotel workflows and streamline communication. With real-world applications and best practices, this session showcases how Vodia and Fanvil are advancing hospitality technology.

July 2, 2025