PBXAct and pfSense support for THAT Corporation

THAT Corporation specialises in high-performance audio technology. Its IC division offers integrated circuits for professional audio like microphone preamps, Analog Engine® dynamics processors, and OutSmarts® balanced line drivers. Its Total Sonics® licensing division provides Total Immersion® and Total Cal® digital signal processing solutions for consumer products like TVs and speakers. THAT also provides bespoke semiconductor production services, for aerospace and other high-reliability applications. As a result, THAT’s products can be found communications satellites orbiting the earth, in living rooms across the globe, and on stages large and small.

The Requirements

THAT Corporation needed all-in-one support for both their PBXAct telephony system and network setup, including expertise in managing and configuring pfSense firewalls, which were already in place at each branch. They sought a partner who could handle every aspect of the project—from setting up the phone system to ensuring seamless integration with their existing network infrastructure—while leveraging a time zone advantage to perform maintenance and updates outside US business hours, ensuring uninterrupted live operations. Additionally, they required a flexible commercial agreement for on-demand assistance.

Challenges

This project required expertise across multiple areas to provide consultancy that covered all aspects of the business infrastructure. We needed to configure the phone system for seamless integration with the existing network while ensuring compatibility across different technologies and hardware, including analogue lines. Additionally, we had to minimise downtime, keeping communication between branches smooth and uninterrupted, even during the configuration process.

The Solution

As a team with expertise in both pfSense and VoIP, IT and General was perfectly positioned to provide all-round support. We managed every aspect of the project, from configuring the telephony system to ensuring seamless network integration, while also delivering specialised configurations, such as emergency phones.

We worked closely with THAT Corporation’s in-house staff to create an efficient schedule. Tasks requiring their input were planned for overlapping hours, while other tasks that didn’t require in-house involvement were handled during their off-hours. By leveraging the different time zone, we kept the project moving forward without disrupting their daily operations. This flexible, well-coordinated approach ensured smooth progress while maintaining business continuity.

Additionally, we utilised our lab and resources to replicate their environment, allowing us to resolve issues and test solutions before implementing them in the live production system. This proactive approach minimised risks, ensuring stability and reliability.

Lastly, since our financial agreement was based on a time and materials model, we had the flexibility to adapt and refine the scope of work as the project progressed.