Plantronics APS-11 Electronic Hookswitch

Plantronics APS-11 – Electronic Hookswitch for Nortel & Select Avaya Phones

The Plantronics APS-11 is an Electronic Hookswitch (EHS) adapter that enables remote call control between your Plantronics headset and compatible Nortel (now Avaya) desk phones. If you’re tired of manually lifting the handset every time a call comes in, this small adapter lets you answer, end, and mute calls directly from your wireless headset – no bulky mechanical handset lifter required. It’s designed to work with many Nortel IP phones (e.g., i2002, i2004, 11xx, 12xx series) as well as select Avaya phones that use the same interface. Setup is simple: connect the adapter between your phone and the Plantronics headset base, and enjoy true hands‑free communication.

How It Works

The APS-11 connects to your desk phone’s auxiliary port or RJ9 handset port (depending on the phone model) and to your Plantronics headset base (e.g., CS500 series, Savi 700 series) using the included RJ22 or RJ9 cable. Once installed, the adapter intercepts the phone’s hookswitch signals. When you press the call control button on your headset, the adapter tells the phone to go off‑hook – exactly as if you had lifted the handset. Press again to end the call, and the phone hangs up automatically. The adapter also supports mute and volume control from the headset. No external power supply is needed; the APS-11 draws power from the phone’s headset port. For a complete wireless experience, pair this EHS adapter with a high‑quality wireless headset – browse our selection at FindHeadsets for Plantronics and Poly models that are fully compatible.

Compatibility & Design

The Plantronics APS-11 is designed for use with Nortel IP phones (including i2002, i2004, 11xx, 12xx series) and some Avaya phones that use the same electronic hookswitch interface. It works with Plantronics headset bases that feature an EHS port, such as:

Plantronics CS500 series (CS510, CS520, CS530, CS540)

Plantronics Savi 700 series (W710, W720, W730, W740)

Plantronics Voyager Focus UC base

The adapter is compact (approx. 2 x 1.5 x 0.8 inches) and sits discreetly between the phone and headset base. It includes a short RJ9/ RJ22 cable. The unit is black and has a small LED status indicator. No drivers or software are required – it’s pure plug‑and‑play. The APS-11 is also compatible with some Plantronics corded headset setups.

Why Choose This Product

Without an EHS adapter, using a wireless headset with a Nortel or compatible Avaya phone forces you to either manually lift the handset or use a mechanical handset lifter. The APS-11 is a much cleaner, more reliable solution. It provides true electronic hookswitch control: answer, end, and mute directly from your headset. It also improves audio quality because the signal stays electronic rather than passing through a mechanical connection. For call center agents, busy executives, or anyone taking many calls daily, the time saved and reduced motion strain add up significantly. Plus, it keeps your desk tidy and professional. Compared to universal EHS adapters, the APS-11 is specifically optimized for Nortel/Avaya phones, ensuring flawless operation.