I received my “magicJack” device today. This little device works by plugging into my laptop’s USB port and a regular house phone plugs into it.

When I installed it, I was able to select a phone number in Hillsborough County, Florida (Area Code 813). Anyone within the county can call any other number as a local call. Our new number is 813-398-4135. I’ve already started printing new business cards to distribute.

I was initially a disappointed by the sound quality, the voices were distorted. But there were a couple of suggestions, and it appears that I’ve made it better. I really won’t know until I’m in Florida with that internet cable, and the phone that we use in the condo. (I tried using a “powered” usb port, and it was much better.)

This service will act as a way of having a Florida line that will forward to our Michigan number or to our cellphone. Therefore, the service will give me the same forwarding ability I had with the virtual phone from Vonage, but at about 1/3 the cost. Being able to plug in a house phone is actually an “added bonus.”