Abstract: A system operator provisions, or loads, a user's communication device, such as a cable modem, with multiple sets of loopback mode parameters that each facilitate a loopback test, and associates each set with multiple loopback numbers, or variable values. The loopback variables may be MIBs assigned to the device's manufacturer for use in initiating a loopback test of a user device. An operator may initiate a loopback test from a central computer device located remotely from the user device. The initiating device may be coupled to an operator's private IP network, or to a network coupled to the user device. The initiating device sends one of the loopback values in a SIP Invite message to the user device, without the use of SIP extensions, in a call. The user device recognizes the loopback value, auto-answers the call, and performs actions according to the provisioned parameters corresponding to the loopback value.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products, in which a call transfer can be performed independently of a positive final response in a call transfer to the a third party subject of the call transfer. In some implementations, a first party to the communications session can send a drop/disconnect signal after initiating the call transfer or after receiving an acknowledgement of the initiation of a call transfer.

Abstract: A system operator provisions, or loads, a user's communication device, such as a cable modem, with multiple sets of loopback mode parameters that each facilitate a loopback test, and associates each set with multiple loopback numbers, or variable values. The loopback variables may be MIBs assigned to the device's manufacturer for use in initiating a loopback test of a user device. An operator may initiate a loopback test from a central computer device located remotely from the user device. The initiating device may be coupled to an operator's private IP network, or to a network coupled to the user device. The initiating device sends one of the loopback values in a SIP Invite message to the user device, without the use of SIP extensions, in a call. The user device recognizes the loopback value, auto-answers the call, and performs actions according to the provisioned parameters corresponding to the loopback value.