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Thirdlane

Sidecar Configurators

A Sidecar Configurator defines the button layout for the add-on expansion modules (sidecars) that attach to a desk phone to give it extra programmable keys. Reception desks and busy operators often need far more one-touch keys than the phone itself provides - to monitor who is on a call, transfer instantly, or speed-dial colleagues - and sidecars supply them. Defining the layout here and pushing it through Device Provisioning means every sidecar is programmed consistently, without touching each device by hand.

Create/Edit Sidecar Configurator

Name. A unique name for this sidecar configuration.

Description. A short description of its purpose.

Model. The sidecar/expansion-module model this configuration targets. The number of available panels and keys depends on the model.

The form provides up to four panels (tabs) - matching multi-page or multiple attached expansion modules. On each panel you add button rows, in order, with:

  • Key. The key/button number on the module.
  • Type. What the key does - options include Not assigned, Speed Dial, BLF (Busy Lamp Field), Line Key, Call Park, Prefix, Conference, Forward, Transfer, Hold, DND, Record, Multicast Paging, Group Pickup, Paging List, and Voicemail.
  • Value. The target for the key (for example the extension a BLF monitors or a number to speed-dial), where the type needs one.
  • Label. The text shown next to the key on the sidecar display.
  • Account. The SIP account/line the key is associated with.

Best practices

  • Group the extensions a role actually needs to see - a receptionist’s sidecar should show the people they cover, not the whole company.
  • Use BLF keys to monitor status and enable one-touch pickup/transfer; use Speed Dial for numbers that are dialed rather than monitored.
  • Give every key a clear Label - a wall of unlabeled buttons is unusable.
  • Confirm the Model matches the physical sidecar so the key count and layout line up with the hardware.