Panasonic KX-TGA575S-Silver USB Skype Adapter for Panasonic KX-TG5700 Series Cordless Telephones

Overview: Overall, this is a great concept that was ruined by upgrades in Skype technology. First off, depending on your use of the device, my rating could range from 1 star to 4 stars. I gave it a 3 star rating because the device works overall, but requires Windows XP to run, patience, and Skype version 6.21 to make calls.My Equipment: Running Windows 10, using Windows XP on VirtualBox to run software.Phone: Panasonic KX-TG5776More Detail: Being that it is now 2015, I'm sure most people do not use landlines anymore, since most calls can be made using a tablet or smartphone. I purchased the Panasonic phone and USB adapter in an effort to have clearer conference calls and full control of Skype through my Panasonic phone. My main reasons for the purchase of this equipment were the following:1. To allow for speaker phone use of conference calls with a regular functioning wireless phone.2. To control Skype without the need to use my computer (I use my monitor with my laptop for work)3. To make Skype calls for non-work related calls using my contacts list.One might say, "Well you could use your tablet instead of a phone." and yes, I have tried this method. The results have been mixed. The call is clear to me, but depending on who I am talking to, I am told that my voice breaks up, which could be the result of Skype, my internet, the device, the connection on the other end, or a mix of all four. Anyway, I figured I would try a different solution.Enter the USB Skype adapter... This is older technology, but seemed promising. In truth, had I done more research, I would have gone with a different product; but nonetheless, I cannot say that this product would not work for someone else - it's just not the greatest device for my purposes.First, you have a very limited set of phones you can use with the USB adapter. Second, you have to have the drivers and a version of Windows XP installed to use it. These were not the biggest issues as I didn't mind the device selection or using Windows XP, as long as it worked for my purposes. Thirdly, you cannot use the base station to make Skype calls. This was a big negative as I preferred to use the base station's speaker phone feature; however, that was not a total deal breaker. Lastly, you have to run the software and keep it running as you use the device in order for it to work. The software that came with the USB adapter did not work as fluidly as I would have liked. It constantly disconnects, which could be due to me running Windows XP as a virtual machine. Anyway, after a couple of days fiddling with it and a few hours searching forums and trying different things, I finally was able to get it to work through the VM using Skype 6.21 and connecting to the device through it's software. The software is very finicky and likes to disconnect for no reason, but still, I was able to make calls and access my contact list. Success! However, I would have to keep my virtual machine running and the quality of the calls were not the best. If I were just using it to talk to family and friends, it is doable; but for work, it just isn't practical.So for those who are thinking about this option, I would say yes, it does work, but there are better options out there, like the VOIP841 from Philips. You don't need to have a computer, just an Ethernet outlet and power. It also has a speaker phone option, but there is an issue with echoing, so I am still looking to see if I can salvage my KX-TG5776 with another option. Perhaps the magic jack with the skyjack plugin will work?Another note: The USB Skype Adapter will not work with Skype 7.0 or later (at least from my experience), due to Microsoft changing the API. Basically any communication the USB adapter tries to make with Skype becomes gibberish. If Microsoft forces an upgrade or no longer supports version 6.21 of its software, this device will no longer work and my review will effectively change to a 1 star.

Odd reviews. Go over to the Skype forums reviews and this product get's very poor to worst reviews. This is a group, I assume is technically competent and has used, or tried to use, the KX-TGA575S for a while.

It is a great alternative to expensive stand-alone Skype phones, if you always have a computer turned on in your house and already have the compatible Panasonic phone. I have two slightly negative things to say besides the countless good things, like excellent voice quality, reliability and super easy installation and use.1. The compatible Panasonic phones are really ugly and cheap looking. There are so many stylish phones out there, why cannot they take some design ideas from there.2. Some standard Skype features are not available on the handsets. You cannot log in and out of Skype and cannot sort contact in any other way but alphabetical. These are minor inconveniences.I would highly recommend this to anyone having an always-on computer at home.

Since Skype changed protocol Panasonic implementation of Skype interface no longer works so this device would be very useful as a paper weight or a door stop.

Microsoft ceasing support of Skype Classic (under version 8). This adapter worked up to 6.xx without any issues but it's the end of the road for me with this device.

Wow, does this make placing and receiving skype calls easy!Installation takes a few seconds and then your regular landline telephone can be used with both your ordinary telephone service and Skype.Easy to use and performs just as advetized.If you are in need of low cost domestic and or international calling, I recommend highly.

The modem is amazing you can use your phone to make calls through Skype

good product