Abstract: The present invention provides an efficient way of resolving telephone numbers and other entity/device identifiers into Internet addresses as well as accommodating portability of those telephone numbers and other entity/device identifiers without having to substantially modify or rework the domain naming system (DNS) infrastructure or established number portability schemes. Self-contained, additional functionality is implemented on a DNS server which allows smooth IP address resolution of telephone numbers or other entity/device identifiers by taking advantage of existing portability databases without impacting the existing networks that create and maintain such portability databases.

Abstract: Telecommunication system, with a communication network (1), and a database (10), accessible through the network (1), the database (10) comprising telephone numbers (60), and associated with a telephone number a location identification (70), each location identification (70) comprising a primary geographical location identifier (71) and a secondary geographical location identifier (72), wherein the primary geographical location identifier (71) is an identifier of an area (I–VI) of the network (1), such as a postal code, and the secondary geographical location identifier (72) is an identifier of the geographical location associated with the corresponding telephone number (60), such as a geographical place name.

Abstract: A communication system is disclosed comprised of a signaling processor and an interworking system. The signaling processor receives a call setup message including a called number, processes the called number to transmit a query, receives a response message responsive to the query that includes number portability information for the called number, processes the number portability information to select an identifier for routing, and transmits a control message that identifies the identifier. The interworking system receives a user communication and the control message, converts the user communication into communications that include the identifier, and transfers the communications that include the identifier.

Abstract: Existing switch markings for telephone numbers are mechanically manipulated via the Recent Change channel to provide an appropriate treatment. In case a call to a vacant pooled-in number cannot be completed, a terminating switch, instead of generating a REL message with a Cause Code 26 and tearing down the call, connects the call to an Operations Support System that provides a predetermined announcement to a calling party. Calls directed toward numbers that are ported-out are placed on a Machine Intercept, which results in sending a cause code 26 to an originating switch.

Abstract: A method for performing automated UNE migration comprising receiving a disconnect order for an existing telephone service and receiving a connect order for a new telephone service. The existing telephone service is provided by a first exchange carrier and the new telephone service is provided by a second exchange carrier. A test cable is installed to simulate the new telephone service. The method further comprises verifying that the test cable performs correctly. The verifying includes executing a test on the test cable responsive to a test instruction from a migration software application. The existing telephone service is deactivated, where the deactivating is automated in response to a deactivation command from the migration software application and is responsive to said verifying. The test cable is activated to provide the new telephone service, where the activating is automated in response to an activation command from the migration software application and in response to the deactivating.

Abstract: A TMSI, comprising a TMSI identification field and a TMSI generation field, is allocated to a mobile subscriber. For non-restart situations, this involves selecting an unused TMSI identification field value; determining an associated present TMSI generation field value; and performing a normal allocation adjustment to the present TMSI generation field value, thereby producing an adjusted TMSI generation field value. A complete TMSI is generated from the selected TMSI identification value and the adjusted TMSI generation field value. The complete TMSI is allocated to the mobile subscriber. For a normal release situation, the TMSI identification value is processed so that it will be considered unused, and a normal deallocation adjustment is performed to the adjusted TMSI generation field value. In some embodiments, the normal deallocation adjustment restores the TMSI generation field to its earlier value. In an abnormal release, the TMSI generation field value is left unchanged.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for transferring service application data from a server to a subscriber device via the PSTN without establishing a call between the server and subscriber device and without the PSTN switching components having inherent knowledge as to the data content. The server defines a generic request message, which contains the service application data and data delivery instructions. This generic request message is delivered to the subscriber's terminating switch, which subsequently delivers the service application data to the subscriber based on the data delivery instructions. The terminating switch then defines a generic response message and delivers it to the server, informing the server as to status of the data delivery. Similarly, methods and systems are also taught for broadcasting data from a server to a plurality of devices via the PSTN.

Abstract: A method and system for forecasting telephony traffic trends on a network of a given service provider includes storing local number portability (LNP) record portions in a LNP database. Each LNP record portion contains information regarding a corresponding telephone number having been ported between service providers. First and second images of the LNP database are obtained at first and second times. The first and second images are indicative of all the LNP record portions stored in the LNP database at the first and second times. The images are compared to determine migration of the ported telephone numbers between the service providers over a time period between the first and second times. Movement of telephone traffic on the network of the given service provider after the second time is then forecasted as a function of the determined migration of the ported telephone numbers between the service providers.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for using Local Number Portability (LNP) and the public switched telephone network (PSTN) trunks as virtual loop-around trunks. Present invention LNP structures and processes redirect calls to avoid the creation of loop-around trunks from calls generated in the local exchange carrier (LEC) requiring services such as prepaid caller and calling party pays. A virtual trunk switch is created using a Switch Control Point (SCP). Telephone numbers requiring special services are ported and stored in a LNP database. Numbers requiring special services are flagged with a LRN that identifies a special service switch which is either an SSP or an SCP. The LRN initiates communication between the local exchange switch and the special service switch. Once engaged, the special service switch protocols create the trunk links. By monitoring these trunk links, the special service switch is able to monitor the in-band communications, and so provide the special services.

Abstract: Methods and systems for improving trunk utilization for calls to ported numbers are disclosed. A method for improving media trunk utilization for calls directed to ported numbers includes receiving a call setup message associated with the call in a communications network and determining whether the call setup message is directed to a ported number. In response to determining that the call is directed to a ported number, called party information is extracted from the call setup message. A lookup is performed in a number portability database using the called party information to locate a routing number for the called party. A media trunk is selected for the call based on the routing number. The call is then routed through a media gateway associated with the media trunk.

Abstract: A short message gateway may include signal transfer point (STP) functionality, mobile originating short message service center (SMSC) functionality, and short message delivery point-to-point (SMPP) gateway functionality. The short message gateway may receive an SS7 message including a short message payload. The short message gateway may formulate an SMPP message including the short message payload and access one or more internal address resolution and/or number portability databases to determine the destination address for the SMPP message. The short message gateway may then forward the SMPP message to its destination.

Abstract: A method for providing local number portability between subscriber lines served by a distributed switch call manager (DSCM) involves updating translation tables of the DSCM to direct call control messages to a media gateway (MG) that serves the ported number. The service features and service feature profile of the ported subscriber are ported concurrently with the directory number, without re-provisioning.

Abstract: This invention provides a method intended to solve Number Portability in origin for calls to ported subscribers at a destination classical network, an inter-working function intended to provide the means to support said method, and a hierarchical DNS structure able to provide a new URI indicating interworking with an external database where routing data for said ported subscribers reside. This new URI specifies the Global Title address of the external database and the access protocol to said external database. The NAPTR resolution for that URI implies the use of an Inter-working Feature (IWF) placed in the DNS-resolver part of an S-CSCF, or in a close association, in the originating network. This IWF comprises a Protocol Translator and Controller adapting between DNS format and the external database access protocol format, at least one of a plurality of Application Protocol Handling Modules, and an SS7 Protocol Stack.

Abstract: AIN based methods and apparatus for transitioning telephone numbers and customers from the PSTN to a VOIP network are described. AIN line number portability features are used to allow a few gateway switches that interconnect the PSTN and VOIP networks to service customers whose telephone numbers were originally serviced by several remote PSTN switches. AIN LNP triggers are used to forward PSTN calls, directed to the PSTN switch previously used to service a telephone number, to the gateway switch assigned to route such calls to the IP network. AIN triggers set at the gateway switch insure that the subscriber with the ported telephone number continues to receive AIN services provided before the telephone number was ported to the IP network. Calls from ported telephone numbers to telephones in the PSTN are billed from PSTN switches through the use of AIN functionality and triggers set at the gateway switch.

Abstract: An architecture and technique for creating self-installable and portable telephony (dial tone) service that can be moved between any two locations that has access to both a voice communication network and a data network. A telephony adapter is used as a subscriber premises device that is connected between a conventional telephone set and both a voice network and a data network. A provisioning server communicates with the telephony adapter through the data network and maintains a record of the subscriber's local telephone number and IP address of the telephony adapter. As the subscriber moves from one location to another, the telephony adapter (once turned “on”) will communicate with the provisioning server and re-establish phone service, always using the same local phone number of the subscriber.

Abstract: A method and system for forwarding information, such as a message waiting indicator (MWI) message, to a telephone number corresponding to a foreign network (e.g., a wireless network) and a shared NPA/NXX. The invention evaluates individual telephone numbers of shared NPA/NXXs to determine to what networks to send messages. A representative embodiment of the invention uses a service control point and service package application to deliver an MWI message from a messaging service provider to a wireless (i.e., foreign network) telephone number of a shared NPA/NXX. Shared NPA/NXXs are marked as “portable” in a signal transfer point for forwarding to the service control point, which determines whether the shared NPA/NXX telephone numbers require local number portability global title translation or should be forwarded to an inter-switch voicemail routing (ISVMR) service package application. The ISVMR service package application determines the point code to which the MWI message should be routed.

Abstract: An efficient interface for service exchange is provided between a circuit-switched communications network and a domain naming system (DNS) in a packet-switched communications network. A node in the circuit-switched communications network receives from a first entity a request for a first service involving a second entity associated with a second entity identifier. A message is sent from the circuit-switched network node to a DNS server in the packet-switched network requesting a second service related to the second entity identifier. The result of the second service from the DNS server is used in providing the first service.

Abstract: Methods and systems for signaling connection control part (SCCP) loop detection and prevention are disclosed. A signal transfer point (STP) receives a message and performs global title translation (GTT) for the message. The STP compares the originating point code (OPC) in the signaling message with the post-GTT destination point code (DPC) in the message. If the incoming message OPC matches the post-GTT DPC, SCCP looping is detected and the message is discarded. If the incoming message OPC does not match the post-GTT DPC, the STP may correlate the incoming message OPC or the DPC to one or more additional point codes to identify the presence of SCCP looping.

Abstract: A system and method for connecting a call processes call signaling to determine if a call is a ported call or a non-ported call. A signaling processor determines if a ported number parameter (PNP), such as a forward call indicator (FCI) bit M and/or a ported number generic address parameter (GAP), is present. If the PNP is not present and the signaling processor determines the dialed number is a member of a portable number plan area and central office code combinations (NPA-NXX), the signaling processor queries a ported number database (PNDB). The PNDB responds with the called number dialed digits if the call is not a ported call or a location routing number (LRN) if the call is a ported call. The signaling processor appends a 1 to the nature of address (NOA) subfield of the called party number (CdPN) field if the call is a ported call.

Abstract: A method for implementing inter-node user mobility in a communication network which enables a user to perform an inter-node change between terminals of the communication network while retaining individual user settings. For this purpose, after the user has registered at a terminal coupled to a first network node, user-oriented configuration data are requested by a home network node or similar of the user, identified by the user, and are subsequently transmitted to the first network node. The latter then initiates a user configuration to be set for the user via the configuration data transmitted.

Abstract: In the method of subscriber initiated porting of a wireless number for a mobile station, a new service provider receives a porting request sent by a subscriber, and sends a profile request to a current service provider of the subscriber in response to the porting request. The profile request requests profile information on the subscriber. Subsequently, the new service provider receives the profile information for the subscriber, and sends a porting complete notification to the subscriber.

Abstract: A cross-connect switch (16) for implementing local number portability between a current local service provider originating switch (14) and a desired local service provider ported switch (18). The cross-connect switch (16) is connected in a line associated with a subscriber's directory number between the originating switch (14) and a main distribution frame (12) to establish a first active communication channel. The cross-connect switch (16) is also connected in-line between the ported switch (18) and the main distribution frame (12) to establish a second inactive communication channel. The cross-connect switch (16) is signaled to automatically deactivate the first communication channel and activate the second communication channel thereby routing communications associated with said subscriber's directory number to the ported switch (18).

Abstract: A new service destination determination switching system is provided for a telecommunications environment in which a called party has discontinued an old service destination and obtained a new service destination. The new service destination determination switching system is used to obtain the new service destination when a calling party places a call to the old service destination. The switching system includes a hub switch that receives a rerouted call from an old service destination switch. The hub switch corresponds to a routing number prefix used to reroute calls from the old service destination switch to the hub switch. The routing number prefix causes the hub switch to initiate a trigger to a network platform that obtains the new service destination.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for facilitating location-based services. In the arrangement described, when a mobile station is engaged in a data session with a server, the mobile station may be made to initiate a voice call to a designated number. As a result, a switch or other such entity may send a signaling message (such as an Origination Request message) to a central controller, thereby providing the central controller with an indication of the mobile station's current location. The central controller may then make that location information available to the server. In turn, the server may use the location to perform a location based service, such as providing location-based information to the mobile station.

Abstract: A method of correcting telephone number porting assignments using a telephone number inventory management system includes providing a telephone number inventory management system. In the system, each telephone number in a plurality of telephone numbers is represented by an active data record. The active data records include data representing the telephone number and data representing a rule relating to the telephone number. The rule relating to the telephone number is selected from a list of rules. Each rule represents a unique combination of actual states for telephone numbers among a plurality of data environments. One of the data environments relates to a porting management system and another of the data environments relates to a telephone number inventory system. The method also includes identifying a specific rule that reflects a discrepancy relating to porting assignments among the plurality of data environments.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for determining market statistics for communication service providers. Determinations of whether or not a sampling of telephone numbers are assigned by a particular service provider are employed to determine market statistics. A message which is used to obtain a response. The response is interpreted to determine whether or not the telephone number associated with the wireless device is assigned. Alternatively, a sampling of telephone numbers are dialed over a digital line. Based upon the result of the dialing, it is determined whether or not the telephone numbers are assigned by the service provider. Telephone numbers which have been ported between service providers in networks which employ local number portability can be accounted for in the determination of market statistics. A telephone number portability database can also be employed for determining whether or not a telephone number is assigned by a service provider.

Abstract: A method of universal communication, comprising: (1) assigning user phone numbers each representing a user; (2) providing user verification and user digital signature service; (3) providing a handheld personal communication device for user verification and digital signature; (4) dynamic binding of a user phone number to a physical phone number by a database. A universal communication system comprises a handheld personal communication device as the controller for each user, a database system as the intelligent center, and communication adaptors. As a result of the separation of the user phone number from the physical phone number and the related verification and digital signature service, a common interface is provided for various physical communication systems. This allows the various physical communication systems to develop independently and at the same time work together to meet the ever increasing communication demand.

Abstract: Existing switch markings for telephone numbers are mechanically manipulated via the Recent Change channel to provide an appropriate treatment. In case a call to a vacant pooled-in number cannot be completed, a terminating switch, instead of generating a REL message with a Cause Code 26 and tearing down the call, connects the call to an Operations Support System that provides a predetermined announcement to a calling party. Calls directed toward numbers that are ported-out are placed on a Machine Intercept, which results in sending a cause code 26 to an originating switch.

Abstract: The present invention provides a Universal Signaling Point (USP) that acts as a liaison between a call signaling network and a number of switching entities, which support lines, trunks, or a combination thereof. During a transition of the lines or trunks from a donor entity to a host entity, call signaling between the host and donor entities and the SS7 network is routed through the USP. When transitioning the lines or trunks from the donor entity to the host entity, call signaling messages intended for the donor entity are routed to either the donor or host entity, whichever actually supports the lines or trunks. The USP is provided information indicative of whether a line or trunk has been transitioned to the host entity. The USP can compare information provided in the call signaling message with the transition information and route the message to the appropriate donor or host entity.

Abstract: LNP databases are made locally accessible to one or more CNAM SCP to avoid network traffic associated with LNP routing determinations required with the advent of providers local number portability. All CNAM service queries are routed to the one or more CNAM SCPs for processing. Service routing is determined from the local accessible LNP databases without additional network traffic associated with such routing determinations in conventional systems. Four classes of service provider are defined. Queries for telephone services are routed in accordance with the class of service provider.

Abstract: A cross-connect switch for implementing local number portability between a current local service provider originating switch and a desired local service provider ported switch. The cross-connect switch comprises an Originating Dial Tone (ODT) port, a Ported Dial Tone (PDT) port, a Main Distribution Frame (MDF) port, a switch, and a controller. The ODT port receives a first line from the originating switch associated with a subscriber's directory number. The PDT port receives a second line from the porting switch associated with said subscriber's directory number. The MDF port connects the cross-connect switch to a MDF associated with the originating switch and the ported switch. The controller is in operative communication with the switch, ODT, PDT and MDF ports.

Abstract: A calling-party-pays gateway operative for billing a surcharge for a telecommunication service to an account associated with a calling line number. The calling-party-pays gateway is configured for connection between a telephone system and a switch servicing a group of terminating stations such that all communications directed to terminating stations serviced by the switch are routed through the gateway. When the gateway receives a connection request defining a communication directed to a terminating station serviced by the switch, the gateway determines whether the terminating station is associated with an account that requires the surcharge to be billed to the account associated with the calling line number. If the terminating station is associated with an account that requires the surcharge to be billed to the account associated with the calling line number, the gateway determines whether the account associated with the calling line number is pre-approved to receive the surcharge.

Abstract: A method of and a system for delivering a call to a called subscriber in a service provider domain of an Intelligent Network (IN) telecommunication system (1) comprising plural service provider domains (10; 20). Each such domain (10; 20) comprises interconnected Service Switching Point (SSP) (16; 24) and Service Control Point (SCP) equipment (17; 25). For a ported subscriber (21′), porting information is stored (27; 31; 34) associated with routing information to another service provider domains (10) and service information of the ported subscriber (21′), in particular whether the ported subscriber (21′) has availed himself of services relating to call delivery.

Abstract: When a subscriber calls into its Internet Service Provider (ISP), a central office receiving the call is triggered to perform a Local Number Portability (LNP) query. This LNP query is sent to an Intelligent Traffic Routing and Control (INTRAC) unit resident on a Service Control Point (SCP) which determines whether the call is to an ISP. If the call is to an ISP, the INTRAC unit polls a Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS) server to determine whether resources are available. The RADIUS server tracks the resources of the ISP and of other ISPs and informs the SCP of the available resources. The SCP then inserts the Local Routing Number (LRN) of the preferred resource into a reply that is sent to the central office. If resources are not available, the call is terminated before signaling occurs with any switch associated with the ISP. On the other hand, when resources are available, the subscriber can be directed to the preferred resource for the subscriber.

Abstract: A telecommunications system and method for managing Local Number Portability (LNP) querying for calls routed to Local Exchange Carriers by providing a list of carriers in the Service Switching Point (SSP) (local service provider) for whom LNP querying is to be performed by the SSP. For example, calls destined to carriers on the list will be queried by the originating SSP, or other intermediate SSP, and calls destined for carriers not on the list will not be queried by the originating SSP, but instead will be directly routed to the carrier for LNP querying. Advantageously, the local service providers (SSPs) can perform LNP queries for calls destined to certain carriers and charge them for the queries. This will enable small local exchange carriers to provide competitive service in the network by purchasing the LNP querying facility from the SSPs.

Abstract: A method for connecting a call in an IP telephony system is disclosed. A dialed unique identifier is routed to a network device. The network device determines whether the dialed unique identifier has been ported. If the dialed unique identifier has not been ported, the network device attempts to connect the call to the dialed unique identifier. If the dialed unique identifier has been ported, new routing information is sent from a database to the network device. The network device then attempts to connect the call using the new routing information.

Abstract: Methods and systems for improving trunk utilization for calls to ported numbers are disclosed. A method for improving media trunk utilization for calls directed to ported numbers includes receiving a call setup message associated with the call in a communications network and determining whether the call setup message is directed to a ported number. In response to determining that the call is directed to a ported number, called party information is extracted from the call setup message. A lookup is performed in a number portability database using the called party information to locate a routing number for the called party. A media trunk is selected for the call based on the routing number. The call is then routed through a media gateway associated with the media trunk.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method for moving a plurality of telecommunications customers from an ILEC to a CLEC, the CLEC having a plurality of telecommunication lines, the method comprising: screening the customers; performing loop tests on the telecommunications lines; assigning physical and logical network inventory; provisioning one or more features for the customer; pre-wiring the telecommunications lines to a switch at a central office; generating a UNE-L order to the ILEC; receiving confirmation of an LNP request by the ILEC; activating the telecommunication lines; and generating an activate order to a NPAC.

Abstract: A universal triggerless number portability routing node receives a first call setup message from an end office. The triggerless number portability routing node may examine a first routing number (RN) value contained in the first call setup message to determine whether the first RN is a home RN value. If the first RN is determined to be a home RN value, a number portability database lookup is performed based on the called party dialed number. Once a number portability lookup is performed, the call setup message is modified to include a second RN value returned by the NP database, and the modified call setup message is routed to a destination node, which may be a tandem gateway or an end office/mobile switching center.

Abstract: A telephone number relocation guidance system that consists of a server (3) on the Internet (1) and terminal (2). The terminal (2) comes with input method that allows users to enter their information such as telephone number and etc, and display method to display the telephone number and other information, from the server (3). The server (3) has a database stored with numerous records of old telephone numbers and its corresponding new telephone number, and owner of the telephone and the processing unit sending the searched information of the old telephone number and its corresponding new telephone number entry from the terminal (2) and coming from the database.

Abstract: A method for determining an identity of an entity responsible for billing a called party of an alternatively billed telephone call is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a telephone number, the telephone number being associated with the called party. An initial entity identifier is acquired, the initial entity identifier being an OCN associated with the telephone number. Additional steps may be made in response to the telephone number wherein more accurate information is gathered and utilized to ensure the reliable determination of the identity of the entity responsible for ultimately billing the called party.

Abstract: A routing node for translating and re-directing Signaling System 7 (SS7) messages associated with ported subscribers in a communications network is disclosed. Re-direction or re-routing of signaling message packets is accomplished without the need for explicit local number portability (LNP) type triggers or queries, and as such the routing node of the present invention is considered to implement a triggerless LNP routing solution. Upon entering the routing node, SS7 ISDN User Part (ISUP) type signaling messages that require LNP translation service are encapsulated in an SS7 Signaling Connection Control Part (SCCP) message packet and internally routed within the switch to an LNP translation subsystem. The LNP translation subsystem can be integrated within the routing node or a portion of the LNP translation subsystem can be located on an external database server platform. LNP translation involves the lookup of a called party address in an LNP database, and the return of a Location Routing Number (LRN).

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for auditing and reconciliation of a telephone service provider's database and a central or regional repository. Both the database and repository contain data records. The data records include telephone number porting information that facilitates tracking and porting of telephone numbers. The system comprises interface means between a service provider's database and the repository. The method includes user interface which facilitates selection of auditing and reconciliation choices, including amount of date to be analyzed and downloaded, the type of data and data processing application and time of operation.

Abstract: A system and method for intelligently caching Local Number Portability queries from a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). The apparatus may include: an intelligent communications platform connected between a switch and a Signaling System 7 (SS7) network to intercept Transactions Capabilities Applications Part (TCAP) messages between the switch and the SS7 network; and a communications control module connected to the intelligent communications platform via a Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) link, the communications control module for providing management and communications to the ICP and providing access to the management and communication for a plurality of subscribers. The apparatus can also include: an SS7 I/O card for processing SS7 messages; and a CPU card for processing Integrated Services Digital Network User Part (ISUP) and TCAP messages.

Abstract: A method for routing calls to telephony devices when the telephone numbers used to identify the telephony devices have been converted from an old numbering scheme to a new numbering scheme. The method includes the steps of: receiving a call request for one of the telephony devices; examining at least a portion of a telephone number in the call request to determine whether one or more digits correspond to an old series of telephone numbers having a first numbering scheme that have been converted to a second numbering scheme; and, if the telephone number corresponds to a telephone number that has been changed to the second numbering scheme: i) determining the one or more digits to be appended to the telephone number to convert it to the second numbering scheme; ii) appending the one or more digits to the telephone number to obtain a now telephone number for the telephony device; and completing the call request using the new telephone number.

Abstract: A method for discovering and assigning telephone numbers that have commercial, trademark or vanity significance to requesting subscribers on a worldwide scale. The method includes determining numbers that have value because they potentially will be requested for commercial, trademark or vanity purposes by companies or persons active in various locations in the world. Language translations and transliterations are also taken into account in order to obtain a telephone number that will retain its commercial, trademark or vanity value in an area that speaks a different language.

Abstract: A communications process and apparatus is provided with scoped, partially non-geographic addressing. The processes are carried out by one or more switches in a communications system. A first device in the system has a scoped address, including at least one geographic identifier and a customer identifier. A second device sends a setup message with addressing information to a switch in the system. The switch examines the message and consults a database with the customer identification to determine forwarding information. The switch forwards the message to a second device according to the forwarding information obtained from the database. The second device sends a connect message to the first device, thereby establishing a connection.

Abstract: The preferred embodiments described herein provide a method for NPA split processing on a service control point. These preferred embodiments can be used to overcome problems encountered during a permissive dialing period of an NPA split and yield several advantages over prior art approaches to this problem. Specifically, these preferred embodiments do not require changes to be made to an existing call processing record to include a pointer to a new call processing record identified by a telephone number with a new NPA. Additionally, unlike prior approaches that require changes to be made to all incoming query messages to a service control point, these preferred embodiments do not require extra processing for services that are not NPA sensitive.

Abstract: A telecommunications system and method for managing Local Number Portability (LNP) querying for calls routed to Local Exchange Carriers by providing a list of carriers in the Service Switching Point (SSP) (local service provider) for whom LNP querying is to be performed by the SSP. For example, calls destined to carriers on the list will be queried by the originating SSP, or other intermediate SSP, and calls destined for carriers not on the list will not be queried by the originating SSP, but instead will be directly routed to the carrier for LNP querying. Advantageously, the local service providers (SSPs) can perform LNP queries for calls destined to certain carriers and charge them for the queries. This will enable small local exchange carriers to provide competitive service in the network by purchasing the LNP querying facility from the SSPs.

Abstract: In a telecommunications network (1), a signal transfer point (10) receives an Initial Address Message (IAM) generated by an originating service switching point (12) according to a call from an originating subscriber (20). The IAM includes a destination number associated with a destination subscriber (22). If the destination number has not been ported, the signal transfer point (10) sends a return message to the originating service switching point (12) indicating that no changes are to be made to the IAM. As a result, the originating service switching point (12) forwards the IAM to a destination service switching point (13) for processing of the call. If the destination number has been ported, the signal transfer point (10) performs a local number portability look-up in a database (24). The signal transfer point (10) obtains a redirection number from the database (24) for transfer in a return message to the originating service switching point (16).