Abstract: A system and associated methods for automation and management of trunk routing among switches in a telecommunications network between carriers connected to a third party tandem services provider or manager (a “neutral tandem network.”) The system and methodology can be used to, among other things, effectuate a business model for providing preferred rates, or other preferences, to a defined group of members or subscribers by managing and directing subscriber-associated call traffic from subscriber-owned switches to one or more tandem switches owned by a third-party tandem managing entity other than a LEC or ILEC.

Abstract: A system that includes a tandem access controller (TAC) coupled to the PSTN, where the TAC allows a subscriber to set-up and change the configuration of the phone line or other communications device, including selective call forwarding, using the web. The TAC is coupled internally to the PSTN in a local service area and is outside the central office of the subscriber. A calling party makes a first call to the subscriber using the subscriber's public telephone number. The TAC receives the first call prior to the call reaching the subscriber's terminating central office, which in some cases avoids a toll. The TAC then carries out the subscriber's instructions for the first call, such as making one or more second calls using telephone numbers different from the subscriber's public telephone number. When the second call is answered, the answering phone is connected by the TAC to the caller.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing multi-homed tandem access in a communication system are disclosed. The disclosure may include a private packet network backbone exchange (PPNBE) in connection with a set of access tandems and with a call destination such as an end-user or a communications service. A set of LRNs may be homed across the set of access tandems, with each of the set of LRNs mapped to one or more TNs corresponding to the call destination. An originating party may use any of the TNs to reach the call destination. A plurality of originating calls each including one of the TNs may be received at the PPNBE from any of the access tandems and routed to the call destination. Thus, the present disclosure provides greater call capacity than available access tandem architectures as well as optimizes a maximum number of call paths to a particular call destination.

Abstract: A method and platform for reducing call blocking in a telecommunications network addresses problems caused by the use of auto-dialers and by mass calling events in the network. When a capacity excess is detected, information associated with excess calls, such as the Initial Address Message (IAM), is stored in an incoming call cache memory. A message may be played to the caller informing the caller of the status of the message. Once additional call capacity is open, the call is connected using the call information stored in the cache. The calls may be removed from the cache and connected on a first-in, first-out basis.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides a collect call method and system thereof, more particularly, in order to charge the called party with a uniform toll for collect call, which is determined by only the type and location of called party terminal. In one embodiment, the collect call method, system and a counsel service providing method use a free VoIP network for part of the voice call link and a charge PSTN network for the rest of the voice call link. In one embodiment, if the first link corresponding to the collect call request is established, the collect call switch calls the called party terminal to establish the second link, and billing on the second link is initiated.

Abstract: A system and associated methods for automation and management of trunk routing among switches in a telecommunications network between carriers connected to a third party tandem services provider or manager (a “neutral tandem network.”) The system and methodology can be used to, among other things, effectuate a business model for providing preferred rates, or other preferences, to a defined group of members or subscribers by managing and directing subscriber-associated call traffic from subscriber-owned switches to one or more tandem switches owned by a third-party tandem managing entity other than a LEC or ILEC.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing multi-homed tandem access in a communication system are disclosed. The disclosure may include a private packet network backbone exchange (PPNBE) in connection with a set of access tandems and with a call destination such as an end-user or a communications service. A set of LRNs may be homed across the set of access tandems, with each of the set of LRNs mapped to one or more TNs corresponding to the call destination. An originating party may use any of the TNs to reach the call destination. A plurality of originating calls each including one of the TNs may be received at the PPNBE from any of the access tandems and routed to the call destination. Thus, the present disclosure provides greater call capacity than available access tandem architectures as well as optimizes a maximum number of call paths to a particular call destination.

Abstract: Disclosed is an information processing apparatus comprising: a storage section to store data; and a control section to detect whether a data access to the storage section exists or not, to detect whether unnecessary data stored in the storage section exists or not, and to overwrite/delete the unnecessary data in a case where the data access does not exist and the unnecessary data exists.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer-readable media provide for facility integrity testing. According to embodiments, a method for populating a watch list with circuits of a communications network to be monitored for repeat failures is provided. According to the method, a trouble ticket associated with one of the circuits and a trouble code and analysis code (TC/AC) combination associated with the trouble ticket is retrieved. Whether the trouble ticket meets a watch list criterion is determined. In response to determining that the trouble ticket meets the watch list criterion, the trouble ticket and the TC/AC combination are added to the watch list.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the system includes a processor, referred to herein as a tandem access controller (TAC), coupled to the PSTN, where the TAC allows a subscriber to set-up and make changes to the configuration of his or her phone line or other communications device. Such changes include selective call forwarding. In one embodiment, the TAC is controlled by the subscriber using the web. The TAC is coupled internally to the PSTN in a local service area and is outside the central office of the subscriber. A calling party makes a first call to the subscriber using the subscriber's public telephone number. The TAC receives the first call prior to the call reaching the subscriber's terminating central office, which in some cases avoids a toll. The TAC then carries out the subscriber's instructions for the first call, such as making one or more second calls using telephone numbers different from the subscriber's public telephone number.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the system includes a processor, referred to herein as a tandem access controller (TAC), coupled to the PSTN, where the TAC allows a subscriber to set-up and make changes to the configuration of his or her phone line or other communications device. Such changes include selective call forwarding. In one embodiment, the TAC is controlled by the subscriber using the web. The TAC is coupled internally to the PSTN in a local service area and is outside the central office of the subscriber. A calling party makes a first call to the subscriber using the subscriber's public telephone number. The TAC receives the first call prior to the call reaching the subscriber's terminating central office, which in some cases avoids a toll. The TAC then carries out the subscriber's instructions for the first call, such as making one or more second calls using telephone numbers different from the subscriber's public telephone number.

Abstract: Establishing a connection from a caller to a user using a pre-authorized credit from the user is described. A processor identifies one or more source identifications (IDs) for receiving pre-authorized credit for the incoming call. One or more destinations are specified to receive the incoming call. The processor defines a rule associated with the one or more destinations and the one or more source IDs. An interface receives the incoming call directed to one of the destinations from the caller. A storage area stores the defined rule. The incoming call and the caller are determined as a function of the one of the destinations, one or more identified source IDs and the defined rule. The pre-authorized credit is issued for the incoming call from the caller if it is determined that the incoming call to the destination satisfies the defined rule. The processor routes the incoming call to the user.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention disclose a method for realizing direct dialing to an extension across Private Branch Exchanges (PBXs), in witch firstly a calling terminal of a PBX seizes a PBX circuit; secondly the calling terminal initiates a call to a called extension terminal in a PBX cluster by dialing a called extension terminal number directly; then a exchange system resolves the number of the PBX switchboard to which the calling terminal belongs according to a calling terminal number, and obtains a number of the PBX switchboard to which a called extension terminal belongs according to information of the called extension terminal number; and then the exchange system initiates a call to the PBX switchboard to which the called extension terminal belongs, and, when receiving an answer to the call from the PBX switchboard, sends the called extension terminal number, to connect the calling terminal with the called extension terminal.

Abstract: A methodology for optimizing the cost associated with access charges incurred by network service providers when leasing communications facilities from a local service provider has been developed that incorporates physical reconfiguration of the access network topology as a cost-saving measure, where and when appropriate. The methodology identifies opportunities to reduce access charges by performing the following functions: (1) moving T1 facilities from one hub location to another; (2) moving T1 facilities from one T3 facility to another (at the same hub location) in order to disconnect unneeded T3 facilities; and (3) adding new T3 facilities in order to reduce overall access expenses and/or to provide new capacity for future growth, including adding potential new hub locations. The methodology is appropriate for use with various types of network facilities, T1 and T3 being considered as exemplary only.

Abstract: In data transmission apparatus, a transmission device transmits data to a destination when a user instructs data transmission. A storage device stores user information to relate destinations to users. The apparatus can communicate with a server having destination information. When the user logs in, automatic retrieval is requested to the server to retrieve a destination related to the user in the user information in the storage device. A result of retrieval executed by the server is received and stored in the storage device.

Abstract: A sub-network device and a method of communicating using a sub-network, interconnect device and a network as a backbone within a communications system includes receiving a request for information at the interconnect device from a wireless communications device to communicate with the interconnect device, the interconnect device interconnects the wireless communications device to the sub-network, transmitting the request for information from the wireless communications device to the network, the network including terrestrial communications and being connected to a public safety agency network, receiving the requested information at the sub-network from the public safety agency network over the network in response to the transmitted request for information and transmitting the requested information back to the wireless communications device through the interconnect device.

Abstract: A tandem switch migration method is provided according to the invention. The tandem switch migration method migrates at least some end users from an old tandem switch of a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) to a new tandem switch using a Local Number Portability (LNP) capability. The method includes configuring a Local Routing Number (LRN) information of the PSTN in order to direct inbound cells from the PSTN through the new tandem switch and to an old node. The method further includes programming routing information of the new tandem switch to direct inbound calls from the PSTN to a new node after at least a portion of end users of the old node have been physically moved from the old node to the new node.

Abstract: Telephone numbering data comprising an NPA code associated with an NXX code that is associated with a rate center identifier is received at a dial plan instruction writer. Local call data relative to a home rate center is also received. The local call data determine whether a call originating in the home rate center is charged as a local call, a toll call, or a long distance call. Routing rules to be applied to a called telephone number originating from the home rate center are determined based on the telephone numbering data and the local call data. Instructions executable by the telephone switch that implement the routing rules are generated.

Abstract: The present invention is a switching system interface providing conversion between time-division multiplexed digital signals and packetized digital signals used to bypass a common control and switch matrix of a class 5 digital switch. The switching system interface includes a network interface for terminating a digital transmission facility that is part of a network architecture. In addition, the interface includes a line/trunk interface, compatible with the internal signals used to operate the line/trunk interface of the class 5 digital switching system and a switch, connected to the network interface and to the line/trunk interface, for routing data between network interfaces and line/trunk interface. The interface also converts the data between time-division multiplexed digital signals and packetized digital signals.

Abstract: A methodology for optimizing the access charges paid by a long distance carrier involves the use of a “sizing” operation to determine the optimal balance between direct trunks and access tandems (on a per LATA basis) so as to provide minimal access charges. Once the sizing has been completed, a mixed integer program is used to find the optimal MUX assignments for each LATA. The sizing operation is then re-visited, based on the MUX assignments, to determine if adjustments are required to reduce costs. Any changes in the sizing are then reviewed in the MUX assignment mixed integer program. The end result is a definition of the quantity of direct trunks, access tandem trunks and overflow minutes-of-use charges for each end office, as well as the number of high capacity facilities required for each MUX.

Abstract: A method and system include routing telephone calls from multiple private networks via public lines and trunks in a public switched telephone network (PSTN) to a host switch, at which the connections would begin to run parallel. The host switch routes the telephone calls via a private trunk group to a private facility, such as an electronic tandem network (ETN) node or an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) switch. If the private trunk group is full or unavailable, the host switch routes the telephone calls over alternate private or public trunk groups and selected carriers.

Abstract: A communication network comprising a first node and a second node, the first node configured to transfer a first control message for a call having an inbound call path and an outbound call path wherein the first control message indicates a release request and a carrier, the second node configured to receive and process the first control message to determine if the second node is associated with the first node. If the second node is associated with first node, the second node processes the first control message to determine if the second node has two legs of the inbound call path. The second node transfers a second control message to a third node downstream in the outbound call path if the second node has two legs of the inbound call path. The second node transfers the second control message to a fourth node upstream in the inbound call path if the second node is not associated with the carrier.

Abstract: A system and associated methods for automation and management of trunk routing among switches in a telecommunications network between carriers connected to a third party tandem services provider or manager (a “neutral tandem network.”) The system and methodology can be used to, among other things, effectuate a business model for providing preferred rates, or other preferences, to a defined group of members or subscribers by managing and directing subscriber-associated call traffic from subscriber-owned switches to one or more tandem switches owned by a third-party tandem managing entity other than a LEC or ILEC.

Abstract: A method of negotiating a call capability between signalling points in a telecommunications system. The method comprises sending a capability preference or prioritised list of preferences from an originating signalling point to a terminating signalling point or signalling transfer point, at the Call Control level. A capability acceptance is returned from the terminating signalling point or signalling transfer point to the originating signalling point at the Call Control level, if the terminating signalling point or signalling transfer point accepts a preference sent by the originating signalling point.

Abstract: A method and system include routing telephone calls from multiple private networks via public lines and trunks in a public switched telephone network (PSTN) to a host switch, at which the connections would begin to run parallel. The host switch routes the telephone calls via a private trunk group to a private facility, such as an electronic tandem network (ETN) node or an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) switch. If the private trunk group is full or unavailable, the host switch routes the telephone calls over alternate private or public trunk groups and selected carriers.

Abstract: A method of enhanced tandem communication is provided between at least a first portion of a network suitable for voice communications and a second portion of a network suitable for voice communications. During operation, two representations of an encoded signal are transmitted from the first portion of a network. The two representations comprise the encoded signal produced by a first codec and a parameter translation of the first encoded signal into an encoded signal compatible with a single common compressed voice codec (CCVC) format.

Abstract: A disclosed method allows service subscribers to modify service subscriptions online. Operations within the method may include receiving an order for a service package from a subscriber, wherein the service package includes multiple features. In response to the order, the features in the service package may automatically be cross referenced with a list of existing features for the subscriber to detect any overlap between the features in the service package and the existing features. In response to detecting an overlap, a subscription change request may automatically be computed, wherein subscription change request includes only the features in the service package that do not overlap the existing features. The subscription change request may then be submitted for implementation by a service provider, possibly after receiving confirmation of the change request from the subscriber.

Abstract: The invention is directed to selecting access tandem switches to be connected to an information assistance provider. It has been recognized that each access tandem switch serves a telephone user population which varies with the NPA/NXXs associated therewith. In accordance with the invention, the information assistance provider selects for connection, as few access tandem switches serving as many telephone users as possible. To that end, for each access tandem switch, data about how many telephone users are assigned to each NPA/NXX associated with the access tandem switch is analyzed to assess the number of telephone users served by the access tandem switch.

Abstract: A method and system include routing telephone calls from multiple private networks via public lines and trunks in a public switched telephone network (PSTN) to a host switch, at which the connections would begin to run parallel. The host switch routes the telephone calls via a private trunk group to a private facility, such as an electronic tandem network (ETN) node or an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) switch. If the private trunk group is full or unavailable, the host switch routes the telephone calls over alternate private or public trunk groups and selected carriers.

Abstract: A caller ID based call routing feature is described for blocked and non-blocked caller ID's. A processing system in the public switched telephone network (PSTN) receives first identifying information for identify the source of a telephone call and associates additional information stored in a memory with the first identifying information. The additional information may be information about the calling party initially downloaded to the memory by a subscriber. Once retrieved from the memory by the processing system, the additional information may then be transmitted to the subscriber via the Internet for display on a monitor or to the subscriber's telephone for display on a telephone display. Another feature described is a branch calling feature where the subscriber may program a processing system within the PSTN to forward an incoming call to two or more end units (e.g., telephones) simultaneously.

Abstract: A system and method for selectively routing telephone calls in an Advanced Intelligent Network, wherein an edge switch 102, comprising an AIN-equipped switching system, sends a query message to a service control point 108 and receives a response message containing call discrimination information about a telephone call, whereby the edge switch 102 determines whether to route the telephone call via a toll tandem office 100 for further processing. The system further includes a segmentation directory 140 which contains information determinative of which service control point 108 has the service logic to process the call.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the system includes a processor (referred to herein as a tandem access controller) connected to the PSTN which would allow anyone to directly provision, that is to say set-up and make immediate changes to, the configuration of his or her phone line. In another embodiment, a tandem access controller (TAC) subsystem is connected internally to the PSTN in a local service area. The TAC provides features, selected by the subscriber, to all edge switches connected to the PSTN tandem switch. In one embodiment, the TAC is controlled by the subscriber using the web.

Abstract: A method and system include routing telephone calls from multiple private networks via public lines and trunks in a public switched telephone network (PSTN) to a host switch, at which the connections would begin to run parallel. The host switch routes the telephone calls via a private trunk group to a private facility, such as an electronic tandem network (ETN) node or an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) switch. If the private trunk group is full or unavailable, the host switch routes the telephone calls over alternate private or public trunk groups and selected carriers.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the system includes a processor (referred to herein as a tandem access controller) connected to the PSTN which would allow anyone to directly provision, that is to say set-up and make immediate changes to, the configuration of his or her phone line. In another embodiment, a tandem access controller (TAC) subsystem is connected internally to the PSTN in a local service area. The TAC provides features, selected by the subscriber, to all edge switches connected to the PSTN tandem switch. In one embodiment, the TAC is controlled by the subscriber using the web.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the system includes a processor (referred to herein as a tandem access controller) connected to the PSTN which would allow anyone to directly provision, that is to say set-up and make immediate changes to, the configuration of his or her phone line. In another embodiment, a tandem access controller (TAC) subsystem is connected internally to the PSTN in a local service area. The TAC provides features, selected by the subscriber, to all edge switches connected to the PSTN tandem switch. In one embodiment, the TAC is controlled by the subscriber using the web.

Abstract: A system and method for selectively routing telephone calls in an Advanced Intelligent Network, wherein an edge switch 102, comprising an AIN-equipped switching system, sends a query message to a service control point 108 and receives a response message containing call discrimination information about a telephone call, whereby the edge switch 102 determines whether to route the telephone call via a toll tandem office 100 for further processing. The system further includes a segmentation directory 140 which contains information determinative of which service control point 108 has the service logic to process the call.

Abstract: A telephony network includes a number of switches that are coupled by respective trunk sets. In one or more of the switches, both a main queue storing identifiers of trunks that are available and a shadow queue are maintained. The shadow queue is used to store identifiers of available trunks in an order that tracks the order of a corresponding queue in a switch on the other end of the trunk set. By using both the contents of the main queue and the shadow queue to perform selection, trunk glare can be reduced.

Abstract: A method for managing messages in a private branch exchange system uses a personal computer as an operator console. The method includes storing a message to be transmitted to a subscriber who is absent through the personal computer; if there is a call from the subscriber, transmitting a call message from the subscriber indicating whether the call is for confirming the message or is a general call to the personal computer; if the call message is for confirming the message, automatically displaying the message to be transmitted to the subscriber on a monitor of the personal computer; and informing the subscriber of the displayed message.

Abstract: A test procedure for a VDSL distribution loop utilizes loop pre-qualification based on information stored in a network database in combination with field tests that are performed to confirm minimum performance capabilities of pre-qualified loops. During qualification, a VDSL test signal is sent on the loop, and SNR and bit error ratios are measured for desired upstream and downstream transmission rates. These measurements are compared to threshold values to verify performance of the loop for VDSL use. Thus, a cost effective test process is provided which allows accurate test data collection for sensitive VDSL distribution loops without the need for any pre-provisioning of the loop, and to allow for validation of the loop configuration database.

Abstract: A communications system including multiple telecommunications networks having common channel signaling hardware is controlled by a hybrid or combination of common channel interoffice signaling (CCIS) system with a data internetwork to link the signaling points in the telecommunications network via the new hybrid common channel interoffice switching system. Preferably the internetwork comprises the Internet. The internet is used to link signal switching points, signal transfer points, and a signal control point. The signal control point is preferably hierarchical and distributed so as to provide ample power and capacity to supply signal control for multiple telecommunications networks of related or unrelated operating companies.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for allocating a data path during a call by establishing a first network call segment associated with an agent and sending a message with routing information across a tandem link using predetermined signaling paths. A second embodiment of the invention comprises a method of allocating a data path during a call wherein the datapath is also a voice path. A third embodiment of the present invention additionally includes apparatus and method for allocating a data path during a call including establishing a two-way connection.

Abstract: A DCR telecommunications network comprises a plurality of network switching elements interconnected by circuit groups for carrying calls, and a network processor communicating with the network elements. If it cannot use a direct route to a neighbouring network element, the switching element may access a routing table containing alternate routes which are updated periodically by the network controller. The network functions as a group of nodes interconnected by links. Routing takes place on a node-to-node basis. At least one of the nodes is a virtual destination node, vis. a logical entity corresponding to a group of two or more components which are network elements. A link to the virtual destination node is a set of circuit groups connecting to its components. Final destinations outside the network can be associated with the virtual destination node as an intermediate destination node, thereby allowing a call to exit the DCR network via any of the components rather than via only one Unique Exit Gateway.

Abstract: A method of providing number portability for the treatment of calls from a calling party to a specific number of a called party is disclosed. An Initial Address Message (IAM) containing the calling and called party's numbers to enable said call to reach said terminating office is forwarded from an originating office to a terminating office. Once the IAM is received at the terminating office, a determination of whether the call is directed to a portable number is made. If the call is directed to a portable number, a release message containing an indication that the called party number is a portable number is forwarded from the terminating office to the originating office. Once the release message is received at the originating office, a TCAP query is launched from the originating office to an SCP if said release message contains an indication that the called party number is a portable number. At the SCP, the called party number is translated to obtain new routing information.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to acquire a multiparty connection trunk at an office where a communication line can be used effectively when a user while communication requests the multiparty connection over different offices. In order to achieve the above mentioned object, in the present invention, an first exchange that receives a multiparty connection request designating a terminal of a third party located at a different office from a first terminal, communicating with a second terminal located at the different office or other, the first exchange generates a call setup message including, a channel number used for the communication already established, and a call reference that is different from the call reference used for the communication, and sends it to a downstream office. An second exchange receiving the call setup message determines whether or not the second terminal and/or the third party terminal is located at a office where the second exchange is located.

Abstract: A method of providing number portability for the treatment of calls from a calling party to a specific number of a called party is disclosed. Once the dialed digits are received at a switching office serving the calling party, a determination is made of whether the call is directed to a portable number. In a first embodiment, if the call is directed to a portable number, a TCAP query is launched from the originating office to an SCP. At the SCP, the dialed digits are translated to obtain new routing information. The new routing information, which is returned to the originating office is used to create an Initial Address Message (IAM) containing the calling and called party's numbers to enable said call to reach said terminating office associated with the new routing information. In a second embodiment, the new routing information is obtained from a directory number table resident at the originating office.

Abstract: The call processing capacity of the of a telecommunications network by forming the communication switches forming the network into respective groups of communication switches. The communication switches forming a respective group of switches are fully interconnected to one another and then each of the communications switches forming a respective group is connected at least one other group of telecommunication switches as a way of interconnecting the groups with one another.

Abstract: The efficiency of a telecommunications network is enhanced by associating each of the communication switches forming the network with an external connection control processor and forming the switches into respective groups of communication switches. The communication switches forming a respective group of switches are fully interconnected to one another and then each of the communications switches forming a respective one of the groups is connected at least one other group of telecommunication switches as a way of interconnecting the groups with one another.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically configuring routing for international telephone calls in a hierarchy of switches. The present invention provides a set of routing rules to route international telephone calls through a hierarchy of switches. The rules act upon data stored in a computer. The data is stored in a configuration table. The configuration table contains information describing network topology. Using the network topology data, the rules generate routing tables. The routing tables provide routing for international telephone calls through a switch hierarchy.

Abstract: The multiple location, communications network is provided as an overlay application to, for example, one or more private networks. The network adds increased flexibility to an existing private network system by adding additional features, e.g., abbreviated dialing plans, function number dialing, automatic selection of routing, centralized access to private and public network facilities, outgoing call screening, and work-at-home functionality, that may not be currently available to the private network subscriber. Further, the network overlay application of the present invention is adapted to maintain and not disturb the subscriber's current service or the existing private network.

Abstract: Local/toll dynamic routing integration is achieved within a telecommunications network (14) that includes at least one dynamic routing local switching system (24-1) for receiving incoming call and a plurality of toll switching systems (27-1 through 27-7) at least one of which is associated with each local switching system. For each incoming call, the local switching system (24-1) derives a set of Class-Of-Service (COS) parameters indicative of the class-of service associated with the call. In accordance with the COS parameters, the local switching system (24-1) determines whether each incoming call is a featured call, requiring routing to the toll switching system associated therewith, or a non-featured call. Featured calls are routed to the toll switching system associated with the local switching system for feature processing, whereas non-featured calls are routed by the local switching system itself in accordance with the COS parameters, thus relieving the load on the associated toll switching system.