Hi all,
So, I managed to figure out the the feature code method with the assistance of another techy from another forum. So, i thought i would post the solution here so that this thread can be put to bed.
You have to change the SDC options to leave the "system based conference features" in effect, rather than forcing them upon the Polycom. This way, you effectively turn the devices conference button into a flash button. once thats done, use the steps below to invoke a more than 2 party conference. *40 is our conference feature code in this example.
1. Dial your first party, establish the call with them.
2. Press the conference button, dial your 2nd party, establish the call.
3. Press the conference button and dial *40. A tone will sound and the parties will be joined
4. Press the conference button again, dial the 4th party, establish the call.
5. Press the conference button, dial *40, a tone will sound and add the 4th party to the conference
Just to round up, there are 2 gotcha's
1. To add people to a conference on the Polycoms, you must use the *40 feature code after dialling the 2nd party. The normal behaviour of the conferecen button has been removed from the device, so it will not automatically enter a 2 party conferecne without the use of the feature code.
2. If you make a mistake whilst dialling, you are essentially isolated from the conference. However, if the parties remain in the conference, it will attempt to call the polycom back, and will come up as an external/anonymous call. Simply answer it and you will find you are back in the conference. this is likely to be the hold ringback timer, but i haven't confirmed.
As previously mentioned, I wouldn’t rely on this for important calls, I would strongly recommend the use of you conference bridge facility on those occasions.
Cheers for everyones help.
Rixy