|
Our Review
PLEASE NOTE: This product has been discontinued
due to high failure rates and customer dissatisfaction.
The Screen Machine is very easy to connect. Simply disconnect the
phone line from your telephone and connect it to the Screen Machine
at the "Line In" connection. Then, use the provided cord
to connect your phone to the connection marked "To Phone Connection
or Answering Machine." A power cord and transformer are provided;
technical support is available through the manufacturers toll-free
number.
The printed instructions are very clear, outlining and diagramming
the various functions and options of the Screen Machine without
making it seem complex or technical.
After you connect the cords, the Screen Machine stands upright on
a fairly small footpad, with the connections and switches neatly
hidden behind the unit.
The "In Use" light, which flashes when the Screen Machine
is in action, is clearly visible at the front of the device. The
"Power" light, also on the front of the unit, indicates
the unit is plugged in and activated. A switch on the back of the
Screen Machine activates and deactivates the unit. On the back is
one other switch with three options: the "Record Message"
is used to record over the provided message with your own message;
set the switch either to "Screen" or "Screen with
Your Caller ID," , depending on whether or not you have phone-company
Caller ID.
Once connected and activated, the Screen Machine works in the background,
requiring no further action to screen all incoming calls.
Once an incoming call activates the Screen Machine, you'll hear
a quick chirp or a single ring on the phone connected to it. The
first thing the caller hears is two subtle tones, followed by a
legally correct message informing the caller that telemarketing
calls are not accepted. Telemarketers are instructed to place this
number on their "Do Not Call" list, warned that calling
again would be a violation of Federal Law, and told that if the
call is private in nature, to press '5' to ring through.
If the caller presses '5,' the phone connected to the Screen Machine
will ring. If you don't answer the phone after it rings, your answering
machine will simply pick up the call as if it were a normal incoming
call.
Another nifty feature of the Screen Machine is its ability to work
as a "multi-line system" for households of more than one
person. Incoming callers can select the number corresponding to
the person they which to reach, pressing '4' for you, '5' for your
significant other, and '6' for your kids. Each number has its own
distinctive ring, so you can easily hear for whom the call is intended.
When you record your unique outgoing message, just let your callers
know which number to press for each person. After people call a
few times, they'll automatically know which number to press, so
they can bypass the outgoing message altogether. The manufacturers
have included several message scripts, making it very simple to
record the message you need.
Like every other call-screening device on the market, to effectively
screen each telephone number that you own, you will need a Screen
Machine for every telephone line in your home or office. Remember,
the only phone that will ring when the caller presses the appropriate
code is the telephone connected to the Screen Machine.
If you want broader ring coverage, you must purchase optional "Ring
Extenders" for about $10 each. Just plug the ring extender
in between an extension phone and the wall phone jack. It will detect
when the Screen Machine is ringing your main phone, and will generate
a ring sound near the extension phone.
If you have a phone-company voicemail system, you can still use
the Screen Machine. However, since voicemail services are located
in the offices of your phone company, the Screen Machine cannot
send a call back to voicemail. When you want your voicemail to answer
calls, you must turn the Screen Machine "Power" switch
to the "Off" position.
Given our experience with the Screen Machine, you could easily get
along without the monthly charges you incur with Caller ID and Call
Screening, both of which are unnecessary with this device. We would
even recommend using an answering machine as opposed to telephone-company
provided services, both to save monthly fees and to allow your Screen
Machine to work full time to eliminate unwanted calls.
In summary, the Screen Machine is designed for those who want to
take control over all of their incoming calls and receive the additional
benefit of distinctive ring tones, but it is designed to be most
effective when used in conjunction with a telephone answering device,
as opposed to contracted voicemail services from others. We were
also disappointed by the fixed codes of '4,' '5,' or '6,' and that
you must announce the codes on your outgoing message. It has also
proven to not be able to ring some common phones.
Customer Testimonials
"Everyone wants to know where we got [our Screen Machine] and
how they can get one of their own. It is amazing how peaceful our
lives have become without the aggravation of phone solicitations.
It is totally amazing: We have not had a single one since installing
the Screen Machine!" James & Diane, Sarasota FL
...Your product has been 100% successful in stopping those d***
sales Calls! Thank you, thank you." J. Jewel, Indiana
"....We gladly answer our phone, whenever it rings. No more
first walking over to our answering machine to see who is calling".
G. Ginny, Colorado
"With elderly parents that we closely monitor, we really appreciate
the special ring feature they use when calling us." G. Miller,
Pennsylvania
"...No more slammed telephones, no more growled muttering,
no fuming complaints. There is a noticeably calmer attitude around
here lately." J. Buchan, Ohio
"....I'm really enjoying my new found freedom from evening
sales call disruptions since purchasing your fine product. "
W. Berry, Michigan
"....Teen age friends of our children, all use the '6' button.
That way, if they are not at home, we don't have to answer. When
they are home, it is like they had their own private phone."
M. Schreyer, Indiana
"I just got your Screen Machine and I love it. My Vet's secretary
wants one and a neighbor also wants one. So far everyone that's
called thinks it is great and wants to know how to get one...."
Jim P., Oceanside, CA
"I dislike getting calls from telemarketers, period, but I
really dislike getting them during the dinner hour. I wanted a device
where I wouldn't have to hear the phone ringing or talk with these
people at all. Since I purchased the Screen Machine I have not had
to answer one call from a telemarketer. Now when the phone rings,
I know it's safe to answer it." Suzanne F., Sparks, NV
"YOUR COMPANY IS WONDERFUL!!!! I ordered the Screen Machine
on July 24th. By the afternoon of July 26th, I had the machine up
and running. I have already noticed a sharp decrease in the calls
coming through. My life is so much more peaceful thanks to you.
Thank you for everything!!! I will be recommending you to everyone!
" Christine S., Medina, OH
"I received my order today it is up and working. I use it
in conjuction with my TeleZapper. They work very well. Thanks for
fast delivery." Pat V, Streamwood, IL
"I ordered the Screen Machine on 08/12/02 and received it
on 08/19/02. I consider that excellent delivery time. It was very
easy to install and I had the Screen Machine up and running in ten
minutes. Since that time, our house has been very peaceful. No more
telemarketers. Our friends and relatives have no complaints of difficulties
reaching us. We are VERY pleased with your product and thank you
for giving us a rest from obnoxious phone calls. The Screen Machine
is an EXCELLENT product and does what your Company says it would
do." Harrel W, North Highlands, CA
"When I reached the end of my rope with intrusive telemarketers
and solicitors I set out to invent a box that would intercept each
call before my phone even rings to ward off those bothersome telemarketers.
I didn't get very far into the development of my invention when
I accidentally stumbled across the Screen Machine.
"This product does everything that my brainchild was going
to do; and much more. Since I purchased it and installed it into
my home's main telephone line, ALL calls from telemarketers, solicitors,
charities, and any other undesirable sources have stopped. Totally
STOPPED! I don't usually write testimonials about anything, but
in this case I just had to. This is one of the best products I have
ever purchased and it works perfectly. The price is extremely reasonable
considering that the phone company offers a similar, yet inferior,
service for a reoccurring monthly fee. In that respect, the Screen
Machine has already paid for itself. I'd much rather see this product's
inventor receive my money than an institution that is already overcharging
consumers. I highly recommend this product to anyone who has ever
been bothered by unwanted telemarketer calls and wants them to stop;
in other words, EVERYONE!" James M, South Plainfield, NJ
"Last month, telemarketers were waking me up every morning,
often those who only spoke Spanish and didn't understand the phrase
"do-not-call list". My answering machine was full of pre-recorded
advertisements for fraudulent financial schemes. So I installed
a Screen Machine and haven't had a single junk call since. It gives
me some sadistic pleasure to hear the occasional quiet click indicating
that a telemarketer is being stopped." Paul G, Pasadena,
CA
"This product is a dream come true! Since I began using the
Screen Machine, I have not taken a single unwanted phone call. If
you are fed up with the hang ups, messages on your answering machine
and annoying salespepople, this is the last product you will ever
need." Norman M, San Diego, CA
"I have has this item for two weeks now and I love it!!!! NOT
ONE single telemarketing call. It works great, just like advertised.
Great product." Chris E, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ
We would love to hear from you if you have used one of our products!
CLICK HERE to fill out
our product feedback form.
Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQ)
How complicated is the installation process?
The unit plugs into a normal phone system using phone jacks.
Simply take the phone jack which was plugged into your phone, and
plug it into the Screen Machine. Then take the line that comes with
the Screen Machine and connect it to your telephone. Plug in the
Power Unit to the nearest electric outlet, and turn it on !!
Back to top...
How long does it take to install?
Less than 5 minutes.
Back to top...
Will it work with Caller ID?
Yes. It works in conjuction with Caller ID, if you want, so
that you can be assured that the person causing your phone to ring
is indeed an invited caller and is someone you want to talk to .
Back to top...
Will it work with my answering machine?
Yes. Connect your answering machine to the PHONE IN side of
the FILTER and set your machine so that the number of ring signals
it receives before your "not at home" message starts is less than
8.
Back to top...
How long must a caller wait before they depress
a key to ring through?
Immediate access can be gained at any time during the message.
Back to top...
Can I record my own voice?
Yes, a 20 second message can be used to record over the programmed
message. We have even included a list of suggested scripts
for you to easily create your own legally binding message.
Back to top...
What connections are required?
The Screen Machine comes with a power cord and telephone cable,
and that is all that is needed. The power cord plugs into your electrical
outlet and the Screen Machine. The cable is used to connect your
phone outlet to the Screen Machine.
Back to top...
Will the Screen Machine work with fax machines?
The Screen Machine can not only be used in conjunction with a fax
machine, but will also help to eliminate junk faxes. Fax callers
will need to enter '5' to get through. This will prevent most computer-broadcasted
faxes to fail. Be sure to tell your invited fax callers to add the
additional number.
Back to top...
Will it work with Voice Mail, Privacy Manager,
and other phone company packages?
The Screen Machine is best used with a telephone answering device
located on the premises. The Screen Machine does its screening process
prior to the telephone company voice mail activation. If you are
not able to attend the phone and wish to use the telephone company
voice mail product, you should turn the Screen Machine off. The
Screen Machine would then not interfere with the normal operation
of telephone company voice mail. As a general rule, the Screen Machine
will work with most of the packages offered. Feel free to contact
us with questions about how the Screen MachineT will work with your
particular package.
Back to top...
How does the Screen Machine eliminate computer-generated
telemarketing calls?
The computer dialer obviously will not hear the Screen Machine's
recorded message. However, when a computer dialer hears a recorded--
rather than a human - voice, it will simply hang up. The computer
will not know to remove your name from the list, but it will most
likely do so after a number of unsuccessful attempts.
Back to top...
How do I know that unwanted callers won't just
press '5' to ring through?
If the call comes from a human telemarketer - and even computer-dialed
calls switch over to a human telemarketer while your phone is still
ringing - the human telemarketer will do one of two things: either
hang up immediately, thinking it's connected to an answering machine,
or listen long enough to the message to hear the Screen Machine's
"remove me from your list" demand. Once they hear that
instruction, they WILL NOT dial through. The first thing every telemarketer
is taught is not to EVER disturb a caller who has requested not
to be called; there are large fines involved for both the individual
telemarketer and their employing company. In fact, a telemarketer
who did so would take the risk of being fired outright.
If you think of telemarketing as big business (which it is!), a
telemarketing company only makes money from customers who purchase
something. Attempting to speak with someone who clearly is not inclined
to buy is a fruitless waste of time... and time, in business, is
money.
Finally, telemarketers - believe it or not - are people just like
you and me. Their preference would not be to speak with people who
do not want to speak with them. They endure enough frustration during
the course of each day without deliberately disturbing someone who
has specifically asked not to be contacted!
Back to top...
Is there a warranty on the Screen Machine?
Yes. The Screen Machine is warranted to be free from defects
in material and workmanship for a period of 1 year.
Back to top...
|
