Abstract: An applications programming interface 20 to a telecommunications management network includes a command language interpreter 24 and a compiler 40. A command string input/output format is provided, the command strings 42 including network management parameters. The interpreter includes interpreter scripts for converting the network management parameters between the command string format and a network management protocol compatible format. The compiler compiles interpreter scripts for encoding and decoding user defined parameter types, which are then loaded dynamically to the interpreter. The interface provides a convenient "command line" API, while at the same time permitting extensions to the interpreter in a dynamic manner.

Abstract: A telecommunications switch (12) includes a dial plan database (300) used for creating, identifying, and verifying dial plan codes and dialing sequences of a desire dial plan (100). The dial plan (100) is created through a craft terminal (201) that communicates with a craft interface (200) of the telecommunications switch (12). The telecommunications switch (12) uses dial plans created and stored within the dial plan database (300) in performing a digit parsing routine. The digit parsing routine identifies dial plan codes and dialing sequences through digit collection by systematically eliminating possible dial plan codes until one is identified. The identified dial plan code is processed by performing valid or error actions associated with the identified dial plan code. The digit parsing routine continues with an incoming call until it has been appropriately handled and awaits for the next incoming call digits to be received.

Abstract: A communication switching system, composed of a performance characteristics system (LMS) and a base switching system (BVS), whereby the base switching system (BVS) has a basic call controller (BRS) for controlling a 2-party call composed of two connections communicating via messages with respectively allocated automatic status units, a database (DB) containing call objects (RO) and a plurality of performance characteristics control modules (LM-SB) available in exchange in the form of callable functions for the optional influencing of the call objects. Both the basic call controller (BRS) as well as the performance characteristics control modules (LM-SB) can access the database (DB).

Abstract: To set a night service configuration, a configuration control (KS) in the private branch communications exchange (NK) is activated from an internal or external handset or a switchboard position by dialing a call number. A sequence of numbers then entered is interpreted as an authorization code. The subscriber group for which incoming calls are to be diverted is selected by a sequence of numbers subsequently entered. A further sequence of dialed numbers determines the target handset or the target switchboard position for receiving the diverted calls. The configuration control (KS) then forms an administration and maintenance order, which is transmitted to the operating system of the private branch communications exchange.

Abstract: A method and a system for controlling the operation of a telephone exchange from a subscriber connection. A direct communication connection is established between a subscriber connection and a telephone exchange control unit. One or more command macros executing a predetermined task with associated parameters are supplied from the subscriber connection to the telephone exchange control unit. The commands of the given command macro are executed in the control unit under the control of the parameters associated with each command.

Abstract: A method for operating a communication network where the tie between the provisioning of and billing for service and the terminating point of the telecommunication network to which service is provided is severed. Instead, an association is maintained between the provisioning and billing for service and a piece of telecommunication equipment, regardless of the point of that equipment's connection to the network. This enables a customer to appear at any point of the telecommunication network and still obtain service, and it allows the telecommunication carrier to streamline the processes of provisioning, billing and collecting of moneys. An account is maintained by the telecommunication carrier for a specific piece of telecommunication equipment. The account is established by forwarding to the telecommunication carrier a service request including information that uniquely identifies the telecommunication equipment and information that enables the carrier to bill the customer.

Abstract: A call processing method and apparatus for erasing a digit stored in memory in response to a "delete" signal generated by a caller station is disclosed. A protocol is provided for a switching system to recognize the "delete" signal as a command to erase a last stored input digit. In a telephone system, a subscriber's telephone is equipped with a "DEL" key to facilitate the generation of the "delete" signal to erase the last digit (e.g., a misdialed digit) that the switching system received during the process of dialing a telephone number from the caller station.

Abstract: In a cross connect apparatus, a switch section includes a plurality of switches and having n input terminals and m output terminals. A control section reads a current connection information indicative of a current connection state of the switch section in response to a connection command, and determines based on the read connection information, whether it is allowed to establish a connection state of the switch section designated by the connection command. When it is determined to be allowed, the control section establishes a new connection state of the switch section designated by the connection command.

Abstract: A method of controlling an exchange (NE), and a communications system which comprises at least one such exchange (NE) and a management system (OS). The exchange (NE) is controlled by a number of application programs. The application programs are assigned to two different control units (CONTR1; CONTR2), namely a first and a second control unit (CONTR1; CONTR2), with different operating system platforms. One part of the application programs runs on an operating system platform of the first control unit (CONTR1), which is specifically adapted for the performance of switching functions. The other part of the application programs which is assigned to the second control unit (CONTR2), runs on a universal operating system platform. In this case the application programs of the first control unit (CONTR1) cooperate with the application programs of the second control unit (CONTR2) to provide switching functions.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for inputting telephone number information into an operator workstation are described. In accordance with the present invention, telephone number information may be entered as either alphabetic information using, e.g., the alphabetic keys on an IBM compatible keyboard, or as numeric information using the numeric keys on the keyboard or on a standard telephone keypad. When telephone number information is input as alphabetic information, the workstation automatically converts the alphabetic character of e.g., a vanity telephone number such as "SKYTELL" into the actual numeric 759 8355 which is then used to complete the call. Error checking is performed as part of the data input and conversion process. If an operator attempts to enter the letters Q or Z into a telephone number field or enters a key other than an alphanumeric the input data is rejected and an error message is sent to the operator.

Abstract: The invention uses a connection having a predetermined priority, switched through the existing call processing switch fabric, to connect between customer premise equipment (CPE). The connection is implemented such that the connection is disconnected if an incoming call to one of the CPEs or an outgoing request for service from one of the CPEs is made that has a priority higher than the predetermined priority. If the connection is disconnected due to a request for higher priority service, the system of the invention can automatically reestablish the connection after the higher priority service call has ended.

Abstract: The invention uses a suppressed ringing connection, switched through the existing call processing switch fabric, to connect between two customer premise equipments (CPEs) for long duration, low priority calls. The suppressed ringing connection is implemented such that the connection is disconnected if an incoming call to one of the CPEs or an outgoing request for service from one of the CPEs is made. If the suppressed ringing connection is disconnected due to a request for normal service to or from one of the CPEs, the system of the invention automatically reestablishes the suppressed ringing connection after the normal service call has ended such that the long duration suppressed ringing connection can be maintained on a quasi-permanent basis. As a result, the suppressed ringing connection can be maintained for long duration connections without disrupting normal incoming or outgoing service to either of the connected CPEs.

Abstract: A method for changing the call handling capacity of a telecommunications switch requires authorization from an external source, such as a telecommunications equipment manufacturing company (TEMC). Each switch purchased from the particular switch manufacturer includes a customized upgrade security protocol which limits access to data bus blocks associated with integrated digital carrier units of the switch. To alter the upgrade security program, an authorization code must be retrieved from the TEMC. The authorization code is then entered into the switch, and used to automatically alter the upgrade security protocol so that previously blocked data buses may be activated.

Abstract: A customized telecommunication service comprising a service related component, referred to as a service shell, and a number of customization parts open to customization by a service provider. The service shell is designed by a system vendor with due consideration taken to the fact that the service must not interfere in a non-desired way with other existing services. The service shell comprises customization points to which the customization parts are added. Each customization point comprises an individual customization interface defining the scope of actions open to customization in the service shell. The service provider selects, among the actions, those which will build the desired function of the customization part.

Abstract: A switch system for switching extension numbers, which can be changed by a subscriber having the extension number of the BBG (Basic Business Group) without the operation by a switch operator, is connected with a plurality of telephone sets (TEL) which belong to the BBG (Basic Business Group). An access code and an extension number are sent from one telephone set of the BBG to the switch. A former extension number of the one telephone set is deleted by the switch system and is registered in the switch to change the former extension number of the one telephone set to the extension number sent from the one telephone set. The switch system has a subscriber circuit section, a digital switch module and a central processing section including a central processor, a main memory and a file memory.

Abstract: Special subscriber features available to a telecommunications subscriber are selected for a particular B-number preassigned to a particular subscriber and stored in a database maintained by a local exchange servicing the subscriber. Whenever an original or incoming call is requested from the local exchange, the involved B-number is compared against the B-number stored in the database. If there is a match, all preassigned subscriber features for that particular B-number are executed prior to the establishment of originating or terminating call connections.

Abstract: A communications networking system is disclosed for controlling and monitoring devices within a telephony central office. The networking system includes a high bandwidth local area network (LAN) within the central office for transferring substantially all communications between each central office network element and remote telephony operational support systems (OSSs) that control and monitor network element performance. The LAN simplifies communications within the central office: (a) by substantially eliminating direct connections, between central office network elements and remote OSSs, and (b) by utilizing at least one standardized communication protocol such as TCP/IP, UDP/IP, or OSI when transferring communications over the LAN. The networking system includes a mediation device(s) for translating between network element specific protocols and a standardized protocol used on the LAN.

Abstract: A system and method for allocating an incoming call to a desired one of a plurality of destination candidates in response to data in at least one predetermined category concerning a caller, e.g. the area, the company or the department of the caller (a source address mode). There may be other modes such as a direct in line (DIL) mode and global mode. When a call is received by one of trunk circuits, the termination mode for the call is set for one associated with the trunk circuit that received the call. In case of the source address mode, the call is allocated to one of the destination candidates which is associated with the caller number or a part thereof. An association between a caller number (a part thereof) and a destination candidate is preferably achieved using a destination information table containing at least such information.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are described which automatically allocate available physical resources of a telecommunications network to efficiently resolve network problems and improve the serviceability, availability and reliability of such networks. Large volumes of sensor data representing faults in the operational condition of elements of the telecommunications network are collected in a buffer. A network performance index is calculated for the entire network or for any portion of the network, thereby assembling the data into easily understood, accurate measurement of transmission performance. The network performance index is then compared with predetermined target values to determine what resources to allocate.

Abstract: Provided is an apparatus and method for routing communications in an Advanced Intelligent Network (AIN) having at least one central office switch. The disclosed system routes communications from a calling party having at least one Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) device to a secondary party having a single calling number for a plurality of CPE devices, each having a corresponding communication address. In operation, communications are routed to a central office switch which is provided in electrical communication with at least one adjunct processor. Thereafter, the desired type of secondary CPE device sought to be accessed is identified in cooperation with storage means which is provided in electrical communication with the adjunct processor. As disclosed, the storage means is provided for storing a directory having a plurality of secondary party calling numbers and corresponding communication addresses.

Abstract: A telecommunications system infrastructure that facilitates easy insertion of feature software into existing such telecommunications systems and easy integration of the new calling features and their implementing software with existing features and their software. The infrastructure comprises the Lucent Technologies MMCX multimedia communications server (100) and middleware-compliant communications endpoints (101-102) executing the Lucent Technologies MMCX communications middleware (111-112). Feature-implementing software has a modular client/server construction, with feature managers (server modules, 300,350) executing on the MMCX server and feature administration agents (client modules, 303-353, 304-354) executing on the endpoints.

Abstract: An add-on telephony server platform provides inter alia high-speed call switching. The outbound automatic call distributor establishes one "nailed" voice connection between the telephony served platform and trunks connected to the automatic call distributor. The outbound call distributor establishes another "nailed" voice connection between the telephony server platform and the voice sets at the agent stations assigned to outbound operations.

Abstract: An input/output switching apparatus which can construct the system more flexibly as compared with the conventional system. The input/output switching apparatus is configured so that a user can manage the connection state of a physically-existing switching unit as the connection state of a virtual switching unit which corresponds to the physically-existing switching unit. Thus, the user can control the physical switching unit merely by operating the virtual switching unit which is constructed so as to be convenient for operation.

Abstract: A system and method for exchanging an old software version for a new version within a telecommunications switch without a system restart. The switch includes memory, a software loading subsystem, a database management subsystem, and a program exchange subsystem. The new software version is exchanged for the old software version by loading the new software version into the memory of the switch using the software loading subsystem. The new software version is then registered in the program exchange subsystem using the database management subsystem. The old software version is passivated, and the new software version is activated using the program exchange subsystem, thereby, exchanging the old software version for the new software version.

Abstract: An announcement apparatus for a switching system, comprising a host processor for controlling the output of announcement voices with respect to the total voice service channels, a DPRAM for storing voice output address data therein, a CPU responsive to an interrupt signal, for storing the voice output address data into the DPRAM and outputting voice output state data, a common memory for transferring voice output command data from the host processor to the CPU and transferring the voice output state data from the CPU to the host processor, a fixed voice memory for storing fixed announcement voice data therein, an edited voice memory for storing edited announcement voice data therein, and a memory controlling/voice processing circuit for outputting the interrupt signal to the CPU, reading the voice output address data from the DPRAM, outputting the read voice output address data to the fixed voice memory or the edited voice memory, converting parallel announcement voice data from the fixed voice memory or the

Abstract: A switching device independent computer-telephone integration system including a computer; an established set of telephone functions for commanding the computer; a library including a plurality of telephone switching device commands for a number of different types of switching devices; and a state machine, operable on the computer, for translating the switching device commands into equivalent established telephone functions for uniformly processing incoming telephone calls independent of switching device dependent commands.

Abstract: A PABX switching network adapted to provide an interactive communication service to hotel guests comprises guest extension lines (4) each serving a telephone apparatus (3) located in individual guest rooms (2). The PABX system (1) is capable of interrogating a property management system (7) identifying the status of each guest room, and to couple a calling telephone apparatus (3) to an interactive call answering system (9) in order to provide a variety of call answering services to a hotel guest, depending upon the status of the guest room as indicated by the property management system (7). Each telephone station (3) incorporates a unique identify signal capable of being interrogated by the PABX (1) in order to enable information from the property management system (7) to be coordinated to the individual hotel guest rooms.

Abstract: A method providing updates of feature package application processes, including changing data storage structures, in a controlled manner without losing call data. A service package application field update (SPAFU) process and a replacement feature process are started on the adjunct processor system. The SPAFU process is designed to interact with both the existing and new feature processes, and, is in communication with both. For changed data structures, a mapping is created in the SPAFU process that maps the old data to the new data. For each subscriber to the feature process, the SPAFU process waits until a subscriber is not actively using the feature, and temporarily blocks calls to that feature for the selected subscriber by refusing requests for use of that feature from the subscriber, reads the database structure associated with the subscriber, applies the mapping, and populates the database structure associated with that subscriber in the new feature process.

Abstract: A key telephone system (KTS) or a telephone private branch exchange (PBX) card is integrated into a personal computer to provide telephone system features. The telephone card includes a call controller, a switching network and an interface bus controller for coupling data signals between the PCI bus and an internal bus of the call controller whereby the telephone card is able to communicate with resources of the PC such as a LAN and a hard disk bulk memory for executing telecommunications functions. In this arrangement the PCI bus must carry both asynchronous data processing and control signals as well as reformatted synchronous signals. The addition of a synchronous bus for transporting synchronous signals is used to couple these signals between the switching network, a telephony features controller and the hard disk bulk memory. The use of the synchronous bus provides for improved telephone traffic capacity and PC functionality.

Abstract: In conventional TDM/TDMA systems the signal blocks sent in TDMA mode from a detached unit to a central station contain a control data part whose length is derived from the signal running time in the opposite direction in TDMA mode from the central station to the detached unit at the largest distance therefrom. Any range enhancement is such a known system then leads to a longer control data part, and thus to a diminished transmission capacity for useful signals. To achieve a range enhancement without diminishing the transmission capacity, a TDM/TDMA system and a method for constructing and operating such a system are disclosed wherein, the detached units are divided into range zones and, except for the units at the largest distance from the central station, the detached units of respective range zones contain an additional, further delay, so that the transmission cycle of the detached units begins earlier than the reception cycle.

Abstract: Error handling in a telecommunications exchange is performed in a process centralized fashion. Certain objects in each process are defensively programmed to detect and report errors. One error handler object is provided for each process, with the error handler object receiving the error reports, analyzing the reports and specifying error recoveries including a default behavior for recovery from errors based on a default error analysis. In situations where the default analysis and recovery does not adequately address anticipated errors, specialized error analyses and recoveries are designed for and specified by the error handler object.

Abstract: A telephone control apparatus connected to an exchange accommodating a plurality of lines. The apparatus calls a connected communication terminal in accordance with a calling signal inputted from the exchange. In the apparatus, response information corresponding to the type of calling signals is stored in RAM 12 in advance. The type of a calling signal inputted from the exchange is discriminated, and response information is read out of the RAM12 in accordance with the discrimination result, to determine a corresponding response process. Further, a telephone exchange apparatus which accommodates a plurality of outside lines and which selects and seizes one of the outside lines by outgoing calling from an extension. Upon outgoing call operation from an extension, the stored information is referred to and one of the plurality of outside line is selected based upon a number of incoming calls received on each of the outside lines or the time period each one of the outside lines has been occupied in communication.

Abstract: A communication system and a call processing method, with which a communication attribute of an incoming call or a held call is recognized, and the call is processed on the basis of matching characteristics of the communication attributes of accommodated terminals. When the call does not match with a given terminal in terms of a communication attribute, an associated message is displayed. When a given terminal is matched with the call within an allowable range of its communication attribute, the attribute of the given terminal is set to match with a requested communication attribute simultaneously with a response to the call by the given terminal.

Abstract: A stored-program-controlled local telephone exchange in which internal connections and conference connections are treated as though they were both a combination of an external connection, namely an originating connection and a terminating connection. This is achieved by providing a virtual route, which is realized by records in a computer memory and which is linked to a call handler and which, from the aspect of the call handler, behaves as a conventional trunk terminal. Alternatively, the virtual route can be replaced with two hardware implemented digital trunk terminals which are mutually connected by a physical wire connection. In the case of a conference connection, the conference equipment is connected to a hardware implemented digital trunk terminal which coacts with the virtual route.

Abstract: A digital loop carrier system that more conveniently passes a flash-hook signal while still allowing open-switching-intervals (loop current feed open intervals) with a floating ground central office switch interface. The carrier system includes both an office loop and a customer loop. The interface includes both an office loop switch and controller. The controller regulates the operation of the switch and also regulates whether the customer loop should be open or closed. When the office loop is not grounded, but current was detected by the controller in the office loop prior to the controller opening the office loop, the controller waits a predetermined interval after opening the office loop before opening the customer loop and terminating the call.

Abstract: A system and method provides a tandem switch and call control/management platform to establish a telephone connection (bridge) between two parties, the telephone connection being initiated by one of the parties. The tandem switch connects a telecommunications system (Centrex or PBX) with cellular or wireless telephones. If either party is disconnected from the tandem switch, the telephone connection between the tandem switch and the remaining party is maintained. The telephone connection is re-established by instructing the tandem switch to reconnect the disconnected party to the maintained party.

Abstract: A message interceptor is interposed in a link of a communications signalling network such as an SS7 network. The interceptor separately maintains the link level protocols on the two portions of the link with which it interfaces. Message data is transferred across between the link portions by a transfer circuit of the interceptor. In the course of this transfer, the nature of the data is checked by a selective action control circuit against selection criteria held in a store. If a selection criteria is met, the control circuit acts to suppress or modify the data.

Abstract: A method for updating a system program in a switching equipment. Many known, program-controlled switching equipment have a system program deposited in read-only memories. For modifying the system program, a replacement of the read-only memories is necessary, as known. The method updates the system program without having to undertake interventions in the existing switching equipment. Proceeding from a data processing device, administration and maintenance orders are communicated to the administration and maintenance interface of the existing switching equipment, these administration and maintenance orders being misused for the purpose of transmitting an updated system program stored in the data processing device into the switching equipment and in order to reroute the program processing of the system processor located in the switching equipment onto the newly written system program.

Abstract: A telecommunications protocol development environment which enables a user to define a separate finite state machine for each port provided by a programmable telecommunications switch. Protocols for various telecommunications applications and software layers may be developed.

Abstract: A method of maintaining directory data in a switching system network having plural switching systems and a centralized directory data management system in which local directory data is stored at each switching system, A copy of directory data of all the switching systems is stored at the management system. Directory data entries of the directory data stored at the management system are associated with groups of switching systems. Data entries associated within each group are downloaded to the switching systems designated in that group.

Abstract: A telephone system in which a service node and a service control point are permitted to communicate with each other by adapting the central office switch to have a non-call associated signalling communication service which can be invoked by non-call associated signalling messages and which further utilizes the network access control and/or signalling channel of the service node.

Abstract: Symbol sequences of varying lengths and having logical meanings other than as network addresses (e.g., subscriber names), are assigned and used as actual telecommunications network addresses, without imposition of predefined fixed lengths, formats, or orderings on their constituent segments (e.g., given name, surname), in a call-processing arrangement (200) that uses stored definitions of syntax (320, 350) and grammar (400, 410) of the network numbering plan. The syntax definitions include definitions (312) of individual address segments, called symbol strings, which have logical meanings. Each string's definition includes a string length range (332), a string type (331), and an indicator (VNI 334) of the string's influence on call treatment (e.g., route) selection.

Abstract: A telecommunication network in which call control and connection control are separated comprises switching nodes each comprising a call and service control point implementing all signalling functions relating to call control and service control including: call set-up, supervision and clearing down and the same functions in respect of at least one service requested during a call. The network also comprises a bearer control point connected to the call and service control point and implementing only switching functions and signalling functions relating to connection control including: bearer set-up, supervision and clearing down.

Abstract: An end office of the PSTN, which employs independent switching networks which share one or more office codes, is served by a single assigned node on the CCS network. The signaling processor which serves the assigned node, screens all incoming call messages (IAM)'s; directs messages which include an appropriate Channel Identification Code (CIC) to the switching network that serves that CIC; rejects messages that include an improper CIC; and requests that the calling office assign a different CIC to the incoming call. In an alternate configuration, a signaling message intercept unit is interposed between a signal transfer point (STP) and end switches, to determine which of two or more switches should receive a message, based on the directory number, a circuit identifier or a message index of the received message, and forwards the message to the correct switch.

Abstract: A telecommunications protocol development environment which enables a user to define a separate finite state machine for each port or channel provided by a programmable telecommunications switch. Protocols for various telecommunications applications and software layers may be developed.

Abstract: Symbol sequences of varying lengths and having logical meanings other than as network addresses (e.g., subscriber names), are assigned and used as actual telecommunications network addresses, without imposition of predefined fixed lengths, formats, or orderings on their constituent segments (e.g., given name, surname), in a call-processing arrangement (200) that uses stored definitions of syntax (320, 350) and grammar (400, 410) of the network numbering plan. The syntax definitions include definitions (312) of individual address segments, called symbol strings, which have logical meanings. Each string's definition includes a string length range (332), a string type (331), and an indicator (VNI 334) of the string's influence on call treatment (e.g., route) selection.

Abstract: A user sends a service request to an SCP through an SSF. Then, the SCP (Service Central Point) receives the service request through the SSF (Service Switching Function) interface and issues a request of a service to the application controller. The application controller obtains from the service applicator the specification data corresponding to the kind of service contained in the service request, and then sends them to the software component controller. The software component controller obtains the software component according to the software component number contained in the specification data, and then returns it to the application controller. Then, the software component controller checks whether or not the software component is available for the specified kind of service, and returns the software component only when it is available. When it is not available, the application controller is notified.

Abstract: This invention relates to arrangements for simplifying the transfer of a source of telecommunications signals, such as a telecommunications customer line or telecommunications trunk, from a first port of a switching system to a second port of that same switching system. Such a transfer requires a transfer of a connection in the outside plant, usually in a manhole, and establishment of a connection from the outside plant to the second port, usually in a distributing frame of the switching system. Translation data is stored for the second port to indicate availability of the second port for assignment to a customer, and, in one embodiment of the invention, to identify the customer to be connected to that second port. In accordance with that embodiment of the invention, the customer line to the first port is tested in the manhole to verify the identity of that customer; the line to the second port is tested to see if the translation data for that second port comprises the same customer identification.

Abstract: A system for voice distribution amongst a plurality of telephone subscriber locations operating on a broadband cable network wherein RF transmitting and RF receiving channels for carrying voice and signalling information are established at the subscriber locations and coupled with the broad band network and a central switch is also coupled with the broadband network and enables each RF transmitting channel to be selectively coupled to any of the RF receiving channels.

Abstract: In a switching network including a central system and at least one end point device connected to the central system, a protocol for communicating between the central and the at least one end point device includes a plurality of signals that may be transmitted from the end point device to the central system, and a plurality of signals that may be transmitted from the central system to the end point device.