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Access Charge
A fee charged from subscribers or other telephone companies by a local
exchange carrier for the use of its local exchange networks.
Access Services
Access services are specified sets of information transfer capabilities
furnished to users at telecom network’s points-of-termination to provide
access to network-transport services.
Acoustic Coupler
A device that enables a modem to connect to a voice circuit. A handset
adapter is used to receive modem tones through the handset’s mouthpiece, and
the earpiece is used to transmit these tones to the modem.
Adapter
A mechanical media termination device designed to align and join fiber-optic
connectors. Often referred to as a coupling, bulkhead or interconnect sleeve.
Address Signals
Address Signals convey destination information such as a called 4-digit
extension number, central office code, and when required, area code and
serving IXC carrier code. These signals may be generated by station
equipment, or by a switching system.
Advanced Mobile Phone System
The current analog cellular FM system in North America. It uses 30 kHz
channels, and signaling is done through superaudio.
AMPS
Advanced Mobile Phone Service. The analog wireless transmission standard
(technology) deployed in the 1980s in the US and Canada. AMPS operates at 800
MHz. Also see N-AMPS (Narrowband AMPS).
AMSS
Automatic Multiple Site Switching. This will allow the mobile radio unit to
make a wide area call.
Antenna
A physical device for sending or receiving radio signals. Antennae come in a
variety of shapes and sizes. Some wireless phones contain built-in antennae.
Aperture
A cross sectional area of the antenna, which is exposed to the satellite
signal.
Application Level Gateway
A firewall system in which service is provided by processes that maintain
complete TCP connection state and sequencing. Application level firewalls often
readdress traffic, so that the outgoing traffic appears to have originated from
the firewall rather than the internal host.
ASIC
Application Specific Integrated Circuits. These are custom designed to
handle specific operations; all functionality is cast in hardware.
Asynchronous Mode
A way to send transmissions by starting and stopping transmissions with a
code rather than sending transmissions at specific time intervals as in
synchronous mode.
ATDM
Asynchronous Time Division Multiplexing
ATM
Asynchronous Transfer Mode. A technology for broadband transmission of
high-capacity telecommunications signals. In addition to high-capacity signal
transmission, ATM provides considerable flexibility, since the individual
subscriber is able to adapt the capacity of a switched connection to current
requirements.
Automatic Call Distribution
ACD is a means for efficiently directing and managing large numbers of incoming
calls to specific departments/terminals within an organization.
Automatic Call Distributor
The specialized telephone system used in incoming call centers. It is a
programmable device that automatically answers, queues and distributes calls to
agents, plays delay announcements to callers and provides real-time and
historical reports on these activities.
Automatic Number Identification
A service feature in which the directory number or equipment number of a
calling station is automatically obtained.
Average Revenue Per User (ARPU)
A primary element of valuation and analysis of wireless companies. It
reflects the average amount of revenue generated by each subscriber.
B Channel
In an ISDN system, it is the bearer channel that carries voice or data at 64
kbps in either direction. This is in contrast to the D channel, which is used
for control signals and data about the call. Several B channels can be
multiplexed into higher-rate H channels.
Backbone
A high-speed line or series of connections that forms a major pathway within
a network. The term is relative, as a backbone in a small network will likely be
much smaller than many non-backbone lines in a large
network.
Band
In wireless communication, band refers to a frequency or contiguous range of
frequencies.
Bandwidth
The width or capacity of a communications channel. Analog bandwidth is
measured in Hertz (Hz) or cycles per second. Digital bandwidth is the amount or
volume of data that may be sent through a channel, measured in bits per second,
without distortion.
Base Station
The central radio transmitter/receiver that maintains communications with a
mobile radio telephone with a given range.
Baseband
In networking, a baseband connection is one that uses digital signals, which
are sent over wires without modulation; that is, binary values are sent directly
as pulses of different voltage levels rather than being superimposed on a
carrier signal (as happens with modulated transmissions).
Beacon
A low-power carrier transmitted by a satellite, which supplies the
controlling engineers on the ground with a means of monitoring telemetry data,
tracking the satellite or conducting propagation experiments. This tracking
beacon is usually a horn or omni antenna.
BISDN
Broadband ISDN. A packet switching technique that uses packets of fixed
length, resulting in lower processing and higher speeds.
Bit
A single digit number in base-2, in other words, either a 1 or a zero. The
smallest unit of computerized data. Bandwidth is usually measured in bits per
second.
Blackout
Total loss of utility power.
Blocked Call
A call that cannot be connected immediately because no circuit is available
at the time the call arrives, or the ACD is programmed to block calls from
entering the queue when the queue backs up beyond a defined threshold.
Bluetooth
An industry-standard for a low power short-range radio link for connecting
electronic devices. Devices such as mobile phones, laptop computers and digital
cameras equipped with Bluetooth can share data information within a range of
about 10 meters. Neither cables nor line-of-sight infrared are needed.
BPS
Bits Per Second. A measurement of how fast data is moved from one place to
another. A 28.8 modem can move 28,800 bits per second.
Bridge
A device that connects and passes network segments that use the same
communications protocol. Bridges operate on the data link layer (layer 2) of the
OSI reference model.
Broadband
A local area network (LAN) residing on coaxial cable capable of transporting
multiple data, voice and video channels. Broadband channels have enough
bandwidth to carry full motion video, stills, graphics, audio and text (e.g.,
fiber optics, cable TV, ITFS)
Buffer Box
A device that temporarily stores data, usually between two devices with
different data speeds; sends data out at a speed that the slower machine can
handle.
Burst Speed
The maximum speed at which a device can operate without interruption,
generally only for short periods. This is in contrast to throughput, which
indicates the average speed at which a device can operate under ordinary
conditions.
C Band
Band of frequencies used for satellite and terrestrial communications. Range
of frequencies from 4 to 6 GHz (billion cycles per second) is used by most
communications satellites. The 3.7 to 4.2 GHz satellite communication band is
used as the downlink frequencies in tandem with the 5.925 to 6,425 GHz band that
serves as the uplink.
Call Accounting
Call accounting applications involve using software to track information
about individual calls (number dialed, time, length, etc) in order to track
usage, recover costs, bill for services, reconcile bills and more. Call
accounting applications are generally easy to justify in environments where
telephone use is intensive and time is billed.
Call By Call Routing
The process of routing each call to the optimum destination according to
real-time conditions.
Call Detail Recording
Data on each call, captured and stored by the ACD. Can include trunk used,
time in queue, call duration, agent who handled the call, number dialed (for
outgoing calls) and other information.
Call Park
A call park number allows the user to ‘park’ a call at a specified
directory number, go to another phone and dial the ‘park’ number to retrieve
the call. This is different from ‘Hold’ because the user can retrieve the
call from any phone on the same system.
Caller ID Features
Caller ID service is available from most local telephone companies. With a
product equipped for caller ID, the service allows consumers to see the name
and/or number of the calling party before answering their call.
Call Routing
Call routing solutions are also programmed telephony solutions that automate
the delivery of calls to the selected individuals. Calls can be routed based on
associated information provided by the telephone system, or on an actual
interaction with a caller, using voice processing.
Call Screening
Call screening solutions use CTI technology to filter calls and handle them
differently, depending upon who is calling or why. Call screening solutions may
involve screen-based telephony, programmed telephony software or a combination
of the two.
Carrier Frequency
The rate at which the carrier signal repeats, measured in cycles per second
or hertz. The main frequency on which a voice, data or video signal is sent.
Microwave and satellite communications transmitters operate in the band from 1
to 14 GHz (a GHz is one billion cycles per second).
Carrier
A company that provides telecommunications circuits. Carriers include both
local telephone companies and long distance providers.
Category 5
A performance classification for twisted-pair cables, connectors and
systems. Specified to 100 MHz. Suitable for voice and data applications up to
155 Mbps (possibly 1,000 Mbps).
Category 5e
Also called Enhanced Category 5. A performance classification for
twisted-pair cables, connectors and systems. Specified to 100 MHz. Suitable for
voice and data applications up to 1,000 Mbps.
CCITT X.25
CCITT specification and protocol for public packet-switched networks
CCITT
Consultative Committee on International Telegraph and Telephone. Older
international standards body. Now called the ITU, it has been superseded by a
new organization, the TSB, which will continue to recommend and publish
worldwide communications standards. Also see ITU-TSS
CDPD
Cellular Digital Packet Data. A technology for wireless mobile
communications.
Cell
The geographic area encompassing the signal range from one base station (a
site containing radio transmitter/receiver and network communication equipment).
Wireless transmission networks are comprised of many hexagonal, overlapping cell
sites to efficiently use radio spectrum for wireless transmissions. Cells can be
anywhere from a few km to 32 km (20) miles in diameter. Also the basis for the
term ‘cellular phone’.
Cellular
In wireless communications, cellular refers most basically to the structure
of the wireless transmission networks, which are comprised of cells or
transmission sites. The term ‘cellular phone’ is used interchangeably to
refer to wireless phones.
Cellular Digital Packet Data
Sending digital data over the existing advanced mobile phone system by
transmitting dense packets on vacant analog channels.
Centrex
A telephone business service provided by a local phone company from a local
central office and provides features directly to each phone at a business
without using an on-site PBX.
Channel
A channel is a physical or logical path for a signal transmission. Channel
frequencies are specified by respective governments. In telecommunications, a
single cable may be able to provide multiple channels. Television signals
require a 6 MHz frequency band to carry all the necessary picture detail.
Circuit Switching
A switched circuit is only maintained while the sender and recipient are
communicating as opposed to a dedicated circuit which is held open regardless of
whether data is being sent or not.
Circuit-switched Gateways
The process of configuring and maintaining an open circuit between two or
more gateways so those gateways have the exclusive use of the circuit until the
connection is released.
CLEC
Competitive (or certified) local exchange carrier - the Telecommunications
Act of 1996 opened the door for smaller companies to compete with the incumbent
LECs, such as regional BOCs for local, long distance, international, Internet
and entertainment.
Cloning
Cellular cloning occurs when a criminal uses sophisticated equipment to
capture a customer’s phone and serial numbers when a call is being made. The
criminal can program these numbers into another phone to make illegal calls.
CMTS
Cellular Mobile Telephone System. A cellular mobile radio system
interconnected to a local telephone or to the public telephone network.
Coax, Coaxial Cable
Also called coaxial line. A transmission line in which the inner conductor
is completely surrounded by an outer conductor (the shield–either a solid
metal or braided metal grounded shield), so that the inner and outer conductors
are coaxially separated. The line has no external field and it is not affected
by external fields.
Co-Location
The ability of multiple satellites to share the same approximate
geostationary orbital assignment frequently due to the fact that different
frequency bands are used.
Computer Telephony Integration
The software, hardware and programming necessary to integrate computers and
telephones so that they can work together seamlessly and intelligently.
Conditional Routing
The capability of the ACD to route calls based on current conditions. It is
based on ‘if-then’ programming statements. For example, ‘if the number of
calls in agent group 1 exceeds 10 and there are at least 2 available agents in
group two then route the calls to group two.’
Connector
A mechanical device used to align and join two fibers together to provide a
means for attaching to and decoupling from a transmitter, receiver or another
fiber (patch panel).
Control Channel
The RF channel that is used to communicate to all mobiles. This tells the
mobiles about the incoming telephone calls, what channel to go to for dispatch
and interconnect calls, and other more technical things. It will always be on
channel one, two, three or four.
Copper Cables
Assembly of one or more twisted-pair insulated conductors enclosed in a
protective sheath, such as polyethylene, aluminum, lead, etc. Commonly used in
telephony works.
Correlator
The receiver component that demodulates a spread spectrum signal–a device
that measures the similarity of an incoming signal and a stored reference code.
Cramming
The illegal practice of adding charges to consumers’ phone bills for
products or services without proper authorization from the customer.
Current Loop
A communications method that transmits data as current flow over relatively
long distances and through environments with relatively high noise.
Customer Relationship Management
Where companies use a variety of methods and contact strategies to try to
build lasting and profitable relationships, in order to retain the best
customers and generate profitable revenue.
D Channel
In an ISDN system, the D channel is the data or signaling channel. The D
channel is used for control signals and data about the call. This is in contrast
to the B channel, which serves as a bearer for data and voice.
DAMA
Demand-Assigned Multiple Access. In telecommunications, a method for
allocating access to communications channels. Idle channels are kept in a pool.
When a channel capacity is requested, an idle channel is selected, allocated the
requested bandwidth, and assigned to the requesting party. Typically used in a
packet-switched environment.
Dark Fiber
A fiber strand without any light flowing through it. With DWP’s dark
fiber, customers may attach their choice of voice, data and/or video equipment
to the ends of their licensed fibers to ‘light’ the fibers and transmit
information between locations.
Data Compression
The process of reducing the size of data parcels to transmit more data in
less time. In modems, a bit encoding process that removes redundancy from the
scanned page, resulting in fewer bits to transmit.
Data Port
Any PC with RS 232C connection (serial port of the PC) can be connected to
this port, data transfer using standard software packages like X talk or ProComm
is possible up to 9.6 kbps. A modem is not required.
Data Rate
The speed, measured in bits per second, at which a particular network (or
other application) transmits data.
Data Services
The ability to access services such as e-mail, faxes and SMS messages using
a wireless phone or communicator. Also see SMS.
DBS
Direct Broadcast Satellite. Refers to service that uses satellites to
broadcast multiple channels of television programming directly to home mounted
small-dish antennae.
Dead Spot
An area within the coverage area of a wireless network in which there is no
coverage or transmission falls off. Dead spots are often caused by electronic
interference or physical barriers such as hills, tunnels and indoor parking
garages.
DECT
Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications. A common standard for cordless
personal telephony originally established by ETSI, a European standardization
body. DECT is a system for cordless business communications.
Denial of Service
An attack that renders a site unavailable for use. Usually accomplished by
bombarding a site with so many requests for information that it crashes or slows
down; may also be done by interrupting network connectivity at the router or
switch.
Dialed Number Identification Service
A string of digits that the telephone network passes to the ACD, VRU or
other devices, to indicate which number the caller dialed. The ACD can then
process and report on that type of call according to user-defined criteria. One
trunk group can have many DNIS numbers.
Dial-up Line
A dial-up line is a non-dedicated communications line in which a connection
can be established by dialing the number or code associated with the
destination. A common example of a dial-up line, also called a switched line or
public line, is the public telephone line. Dial-up lines generally support
speeds of 2,400 to 9,600 bps.
DID
Direct Inward Dial, where you can dial directly into a company and reach an
extension without going through a switchboard operator.
Digital Certificates
Digital certificates are used to positively identify a person or
organization and it establishes their credentials when doing business or
conducting other transactions on the web. A certificate authority issues a
digital certificate.
Downlink
A satellite receive system that processes satellite delivered information,
and includes the satellite itself, the receiving earth station and the signal
transmitted downward between the two.
DSL
Digital Subscriber Line. DSL uses standard telephone lines to send
high-speed Internet to homes and businesses. Local digital network loop. Always
on. Download speeds up to 1.544 Mbps.
DSP
Digital Signal Processor. A DSP analyzes and processes analog signals,
converting them to a digital format.
DSSS and FHSS
Direct sequencing spread spectrum (DSSS), and frequency hopping spread
spectrum (FHSS) are spread-spectrum techniques that operate over the radio
airwaves in the unlicensed ISM band (industrial, scientific, and medical). DSSS
uses a radio transmitter to spread data packets over a fixed range of the
frequency band. FHSS uses a technique by which the signal transmitted hops among
several frequencies at a specific rate and sequence as a way of avoiding
interference.
DTMF
Dual Tone Multi-Frequency. A system used by touch-tone telephones where
specific frequencies or tones are assigned to each key, so that it can be easily
identified by a microprocessor.
Dual Band
Dual Band mobile phones can work on networks that operate on different
frequency bands. This is useful if you move between areas covered by different
networks. For example, GSM 900 and GSM 1800.
Dual Mode
Dual mode mobile phones work on more than one network (for example, TDMA and
AMPS, GSM and DECT).
Duplex
Refers to two-way communications. Full duplex is similar to th ephone in
that both directions of communication occur at the same time. Half duplex is
like a walkie-talkie.
E-1
A transmission format defined at 2.048 Mbps. It is typically subdivided into
32 channels of 64 kbps each (typically only 30 channels are available for use).
These are the standard requirements of most voice, fax and modem lines. The 32
channels are then multiplexed together to a single E1 and demultiplexed to the
other end.
Earth Station
The term used to describe a combination of antennae, low-noise amplifier (LNA),
down-converter and receiver electronics. It is used to receive a signal
transmitted by the satellite.
Encryption
The process of scrambling files or programs, changing one character string
to another through an algorithm (such as the DES algorithm).
Erbium Doped Fiber Amplifier
EDFAs are used for amplifying optical signals in long-haul optical networks.
Unlike electro-optic repeaters, which convert light to electricity, amplify the
signal, and then reconvert it to light, EDFAs amplify the light signal itself.
Erlang
An erlang is an international dimensions unit of the average traffic
intensity of a facility during a period of time; one erlang of traffic is
equivalent to a single user who uses a single resource 100 percent of the time.
Ethernet
The most widely used LAN access method, which is defined by the IEEE 802.3
standard. Ethernet is normally a shared media LAN meaning that all devices on
the network segment share total bandwidth. Ethernet networks operate at 10 Mbps
using CSMA/CD to run over 10BaseT cables.
Extranet
The extension of a company’s intranet out on to the Internet, for example,
to allow selected customers, suppliers and mobile workers to access the company’s
private data and applications via the world wide web.
Fast Packet Switching
An emerging, packet-orientated, digital technology that differs from
traditional packet switching in a number of ways. The most obvious is that it
transmits all data in a single packet format, whether the information is video,
voice or data. Fast packet switching uses short, fixed length packets (cells)
and via hardware switching is capable of speeds between 100,000 and 1,000,000
packets/second.
Fax on Demand
A system that enables callers to request documents, using their telephone
keypads. The selected documents are delivered to the fax numbers they specify.
FDM
Frequency Division Multiplexing. A technique of dividing a single
communication line into several data paths of different frequencies.
Fiber (Fiber Strand)
Optical fiber is made of flexible glass and can support very high data
transfer rates. An individual glass fiber, roughly the thickness of a human
hair, is capable of carrying a distinct signal transmitted in the form of pulses
of light. A single strand of fiber is capable of transmitting over a million
simultaneous telephone calls, or nearly 80 gigabits of digital information per
second (80,000,000,000 pulses of light per second), using commercially available
telecommunications equipment.
Fiber Optic Cable
A cable containing a bundle of fiber strands.
Fiber Optic Link
Any optical transmission channel designed to connect two end terminals or be
connected in series with other channels.
Fiber Optics
Technology that involves sending laser light pulses via glass strands to
transmit digital information.
Fixed-point Wireless
A point-to-point system sending microwave transmissions from one dish to
another.
Follow-me Roaming
The ability of the cellular system to automatically forward calls to a
roaming mobile that has left its primary service area.
Frame Relay
A technology for transmitting data packets in high-speed bursts across a
digital network.
Frequency
The number of times that an alternating current goes through its complete
cycle in one second of time. One cycle per second is also referred to as 1 Hz;
1000 cycles per second, 1 kHz; 1,000,000 cycles per second, 1 MHz; and
1,000,000,000 cycles per second, 1 GHz.
Frequency Division Multiple Access
Refers to the use of multiple carriers within the same transponder within
which each uplink has been assigned a frequency slot and bandwidth. Usually used
in conjunction with frequency modulation.
FTP
File Transfer Protocol. It is an application that runs over transport layer
(TCP) and network layer (IP). It allows for bulk data (a large file) to be
transferred from one computer to another with error-detection and
retransmission.
Full Duplex
Refers to a communications system that uses two separate transmit and
receive paths to allow simultaneous conversation in two directions.
Gateway
A device that links two different types of networks. A digital gateway links
circuit-switched and packet-switched networks; the linking of two different
types of networks using a combination of hardware and software.
Gbps
Gigabits per second. Equivalent to 1,000,000,000 bits per second
Geostationary Orbit
Refers to a geosynchronous satellite angle with zero inclination, so the
satellite appears to hover (at an altitude of approximately 22,300 miles) over a
spot on the earth’s equator.
GHz
GigaHertz. A frequency measurement which equals 1 million hertz.
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
This is a generic term for presentation on screen of computer information in
a graphical form.
GSM
Global System for Mobile Communications. It is the digital transmission
technique widely adopted in Europe and supported in North America for PCS. GSM
uses 900 MHz and 1800 MHz in Europe. In North America, GSM uses 1900 MHz. Also
see CDMA, PCS, TDMA.
GTAG
GTAG (Global Tag) is a standardization initiative of the Uniform Code Council (UCC)
and the European Article Numbering Association (EAN) for asset tracking and
logistics based on radio frequency identification (RFID).
Guaranteed Bandwidth
In networking or telecommunications, the capability for transmitting
continuously and reliably at a specified transmission speed. The guarantee makes
it possible to send time-dependent data (such as voice, video or multimedia)
over the line.
Handoff
In cellular communications, handoff refers to the transfer of a connection
from one cell to another. Handoff time is generally between 200 and 1,200
milliseconds (ms), which accounts for the delay you sometimes hear when talking
to someone on a cellular telephone. In GSM, the term is handover.
Handoff (Intra-cell)
The process by which cellular subscribers traveling throughout the system
coverage area are switched from cell sector-to-sector (and different channels)
with better coverage for that particular area when poor quality conversation is
detected.
Handshake
The process of two modems exchanging information via predetermined signals
on how they will send data to one another, such as transmission speed, size of
data packets, whether the operation will be full or half-duplex, etc.
Harmonic Filter
Used in the base station and subscriber transmitter circuits to remove
unwanted harmonics from being transmitted and radiated by the antenna.
HDSL
High-bit rate Digital Subscriber Line, an enhanced form of the T1/E1
transmission system technology that allows telephone companies to use existing
copper-cable plants while meeting the demands for updated services, including
faster modem transmissions. Transmission rate can be supported up to 15,000
feet.
High Availability
In information technology, high availability refers to a system or component
that is continuously operational for a desirably long period of time.
Availability can be measured relative to ‘100 percent operational’. A
widely-held but difficult-to-achieve standard of availability for a system or
product is known as ‘five 9s’ (99.999 percent) availability.
High-speed Circuit
In telecommunications, circuits capable of faster transmission rates than
are needed for voice communication. High-speed circuits generally support speeds
of 20 kbps or more.
HIPPI
High-Performance Parallel Interface. A standard point-to-point protocol for
transmitting large amounts of data at up to billions of bits per second over
relatively short distances, mainly on LANs. HIPPI is considered an ideal
technology for the transfer of ‘big data’, such as data warehouse updating,
audio and video streams, and data backup within a range of up to 10 km. HIPPI
uses a point-to-point link.
Horizontal Cabling
That portion of the telecommunications cabling that provides connectivity
between the horizontal cross-connect and the work-area telecommunications
outlet. The horizontal cabling consists of the transmission media, the outlet,
terminations of the horizontal cables and horizontal cross-connect.
Hosting
This term can be used to refer to the housing of a website, e-mail or a
domain.
HSCSD
High Speed Circuit Switched Data. A circuit-linked technology for higher
transmission speeds, up to 57 kbps, primarily in GSM systems.
HSM
Hierarchial Storage Management. It is a policy-based management of file backup
and archiving in a way that uses storage devices economically and without the
user needing to be aware of when files are being retrieved from backup storage
media. Although HSM can be implemented on a standalone system, it is more
frequently used in the distributed network of an enterprise.
HTTP
HyperText Transport Protocol. The protocol for moving hypertext files across the
Internet. Requires an HTTP client program on one end and an HTTP server program
on the other end. HTTP is the most important protocol used in the world wide
web.
Hybrid Satellite
Satellite that carries two or more different communication payloads (i.e. it
supports both C-band and Ku-band transponders).
Hertz (Hz)
The unit of frequency measurement equal to one cycle per second. Also see
MHz (MegaHertz).
IDC
Internet Data Centers. Telecom service providers, large/multinational
corporations and government institutions need certain infrastructure facilities
to deliver new and competitive solutions to meet their customers’ demands.
These infrastructure facilities are called IDCs.
IEEE
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, New York, www.ieee.org. A
membership organization that includes engineers, scientists and students in
electronics and allied fields. It has more than 3,00,000 members and is involved
with setting standards for computers and communications.
InfiniBand
InfiniBand is an architecture and specification for data flow between processors
and I/O devices that promises greater bandwidth and almost unlimited
expandability in tomorrow’s computer systems. In the next few years,
InfiniBand is expected to gradually replace the existing peripheral component
interconnect (PCI) shared-bus approach used in most of
today’s personal computers and servers. It offers throughput of up to 2.5 Gbps
and support for up to 64,000 addressable devices.
INMARSAT
International Maritime Satellite Organization. Agency that operates a
network of satellites for international transmissions
for all types of international mobile services, including maritime, aeronautical
and land mobile.
IN
Intelligent Networks. An upgraded version of the current switched telephone
network that allows for the quick and easy introduction of new and enhanced
services.
Integrated Services Digital Network
A set of international standards for telephone transmission. Integrated
Services Digital Network (ISDN) provides an end-to-end digital network,
out-of-band signaling and greater bandwidth than older telephone services. The
two standard levels of ISDN are basic rate interface and primary rate interface.
Intelligent Routing
This will route callers based on a number of parameters, including
information on the caller, queue status, agent status and the present situation.
INTELSAT
International Telecommunications Satellite Organization. An agency that
operates a network of satellites for international transmissions.
Interactive Web Response
IWR. Enables customers to transact business over the Internet, interacting with
the company’s database, and transfer to an agent in a call center, continuing
the inquiry over the phone.
Interconnection
The linkage, by wire, radio, satellite or other means, of two or more
existing telecommunications carriers or operators with one another for the
purpose of allowing or enabling the subscribers of one carrier or operator to
access or reach the subscribers of the other carriers or operators.
Internet Telephony
Technology that enables users to place voice telephone calls through the
Internet, thus bypassing the long distance network.
Intranet
A network of networks that uses the Internet but is contained within a
controlled environment, for example, internal company information that is viewed
only by employees.
Intrusion Detection
Techniques which attempt to detect intrusion into a computer or network by
observation of actions, security logs or audit data. Detection of break-ins or
break-in attempts either manually or via software expert systems that operate on
logs or other information available on the network.
IP Number
Internet Protocol Number. Sometimes called a dotted quad. A unique number
consisting of four parts separated by dots. Every machine that is on the
Internet has a unique IP number–if a machine does not have an IP number, it is
not really on the Internet.
IP Phone
Phone providing connectivity to the IP PBX. Features common phone options
such as call hold, call forward, speed dial, transfer, calling line ID, call
waiting and much more.
IP
Internet Protocol. IP is a method or protocol by which data is sent from one
computer to another on a network, i.e. the Internet.
IRC
Internet Relay Chat. Basically a huge multi-user live chat facility. There
are a number of major IRC servers around the world, which are linked to each
other. Anyone can create a channel and anything that anyone types in a given
channel is seen by all others in the channel. Private channels can (and are)
created for multi-person conference calls.
ISDN Feature Phone
This terminal, in addition to having a handset and a dialing keypad, also
has a LCD display, additional keys for storing frequently dialed numbers and
other function keys. A caller can enter the digits to be dialed (which are
displayed) since actual dialing does not take place as you press the digits but
by an explicit action, say, lifting the hand set, etc. This reduces wrong
calling. In case of CLIP service the calling number of call units charged is
displayed. This is also used for programming of MSN, CF, etc.
ISDN Handset
It is the simplest type of ISDN terminal and consists of a handset and a
phone unit. The telephone converts the user’s speech into digital form for
communication on an ISDN line.
ISP
Internet Service Provider. An institution that provides access to the
Internet. By establishing points-of-presence (PoP) containing remote access
servers and additional devices, as well as a suite of user software packages,
the ISPs act as a commercial Internet on-ramp.
ITU or ITU-TSS
International Telecommunications Union, a special agency of the United
Nations based in Geneva.
IVR
Interactive Voice Response. Where an inbound call is answered by a
recording, which asks the customer to press buttons on the keypad in response to
a menu of options. The numbers selected may instruct the system to search for
specific information, which is then converted into the spoken word.
Ka-band
The frequency range from 18 to 31 GHz.
kbps
1,000 bits per second.
Kilobyte
A thousand bytes. Actually, usually 1024 (210) bytes.
LAN
Local Area Network. A computer network limited to the immediate area,
usually the same building or floor of a building.
Last Mile
An expression used for the cabling or other communication medium from the
closest fiber optic point or other type of high speed/large throughput service
point to the end users equipment. This may be actually 100 feet to the street or
telephone pole, or may be a new line back to the local telephone central office,
etc.
Late Target Channel Keyup
A condition when the target cell does not receive the execute target order
in time for the arriving mobile, caused by link delays between the mobile
telephone switching office and target cell site.
L-Band
The frequency range from 0.5 to 1.5 GHz. Also used to refer to the 950 to
1450 MHz used for mobile communications.
Leased Lines
A circuit rented for exclusive use twenty-four hours a day, seven days a
week from a telephone company. The connection exists between two predetermined
points and cannot be switched to other locations.
LEO
Low Earth Orbit satellite. Satellites that are not stationary from a fixed
point on earth and have the lowest orbit of all communication satellites. Must
either be tracked or use a frequency band and access methodology that allows
access to the satellite with a non-directional antenna. Most
handset-to-satellite systems are based on LEO satellites using L-Band.
Link
In the trunking world, this refers to microwave or phone line links that tie
one central controller in one location to another.
Little LEO
Relatively small and inexpensive satellites that provide low-cost, low-data
rate, two-way digital communications, and location positioning to small handheld
terminals.
Local Access and Transport Area
LATA is a geographic area (called an "exchange" or "exchange
area" in the MFJ) within each BOC’s franchised area that has been
established by a BOC in accordance with the provisions of the MFJ for the
purpose of defining the territory within which a BOC may offer its
telecommunications services.
Local Exchange Carrier
LEC. Telephone companies responsible for providing local connections and
services.
Local Multipoint Distribution Services
Point/multipoint service with two-way capability to transmit voice, data,
and other video information. LMDS can offer innovative consumer services such as
two-way interactive video, advanced teleconferencing, telemedicine,
telecommuting, and high-speed data services.
Local Service Area
The geographic area that telephones may call without incurring roaming or
long distance charges.
MAN
Metropolitan Area Network. Typically, they support transmission speeds from
1.5 Mbps to 45 Mbps.
Management Service Provider
On the Internet, a management service provider (MSP) is a company that
manages information technology services for other companies.
MCPC
Multiple Channels Per Carrier. Communications architecture that multiplexes
channels of information in the time domain on to a single carrier (frequency
domain).
Mbps
1,000,000 bits per second.
Megabyte
A million bytes. A thousand kilobytes.
MEO
Medium Earth Orbit satellite. A satellite that is not stationary from a
fixed point on earth and whose orbital path is between the LEOs and GEOs. MEOs
must either be ‘tracked’ or use a frequency band and access methodology that
allows access to the satellite with a non-directional antenna.
Mesh
Network architecture wherein each node has the ability to communicate with
every other node.
Messaging
Using various products, services and technologies to transfer messages from
one person to another or from one device to another, such as traditional numeric
or alphanumeric paging, e-mail or short messages (SMS) delivered to wireless
devices.
MHz
Megahertz. Millions of cycles (Hertz) per second. A frequency or frequency
range (bandwidth) through which a cabling system is specified.
Microcell
A bound physical space in which a number of wireless devices can
communicate. Because it is possible to have overlapping cells as well as
isolated cells, the boundaries of the cell are established by some rule or
convention.
Microwave Radio
A radio system operating in the 3-30 GHz frequency band. Characterized as
line-of-sight transmission and wide bandwidth. Can typically carry 960 voice
channels and more. To reach long distances, several repeater stations, spaced
about 30 miles apart, are required. HE, VHF and UHF radios are also used as
narrowband transmission systems.
Microwave
Line-of sight, point-to-point transmission of signals at high frequency.
Many CATV systems receive some television signals from a distant antenna
location with the antenna and the system connected by microwave relay. Also used
for data, voice and other types of information transmission.
Modem
A device that transmits and receives computer data through a communications
channel such as radio, telephone lines or cellular phones. Modem comes from
MOdulate/DEModulate.
MTBF
Mean Time Between Failures. MTBF is a basic measure of reliability for
repairable items. It can be calculated as an inverse of the failure rate for a
content failure rate system.
MTTR
Mean Time To Repair. MTTR is the most common measure of maintainability. It
is the average time required to perform corrective maintenance on all the
removable items in a product or a system.
Multicast
A process of transmitting messages from one source to many destinations.
Multifunctional LCD
An easy-to-read digital display shows the message count and machine status.
Some models include a digital clock. Displays on select models also show the
dialed number and a full operation menu.
Multimedia
Combining multiple forms of media in the communication of information.
Multimode Fiber
An optical waveguide in which light travels in multiple modes. Typical
core/cladding size (measured in micrometers) is 62.5/125 and 50/125.
Multiplexer
A device, which enables several different signals to be sent down the same
line. Sometimes referred to as ‘MUX’.
N-AMPS
Narrowband Advanced Mobile Phone Service. Combines the AMPS transmission
standard with digital signaling information to effectively triple the capacity
of AMPS while adding basic messaging functionality.
Narrowband PCS
Mobile and portable radio (including paging) services such as two-way
paging, acknowledgment paging, voice paging and data services. These services
are transmitted over a set of frequencies.
Network Attached Storage
Network Attached Storage (NAS) is hard disk storage that is set up with its
own network address rather than being attached to the department computer that
is serving applications to a network’s workstation users. By removing storage
access and its management from the department server, both application
programming and files can be served faster because they are not competing for
the same processor resources.
Network Computer
Where you put most of the intelligence back into the server, similar to a
mainframe system and dumb terminals where you use the desktop PC merely for
input, output and presentation with all the applications run only on the server.
However, the NC does have its own intelligence. Also called thin clients.
Network Control Center
Also called traffic control center. In a networked call center environment,
where people and equipment monitor real-time conditions across sites, change
routing thresholds as necessary and coordinate events that will impact base
staffing levels.
Network Operating System
NOS is software that controls the execution of network programs and modules.
Structurally, networking software comprises multiple modules, most residing in
network servers, but some must be installed in each terminal/station that
can access network resources.
Network Operations Center
A network operations center (NOC) is a place from which a telecommunications
network is supervised, monitored, and maintained. Enterprises with large
networks as well as large network service providers have a network operations
center, a room containing visualizations of the network or networks that are
being monitored, workstations at which the detailed status of the network can be
seen, and the necessary software to manage the networks.
NIC
Network Interface Card. Allows a PC to attach to a network.
Node
A device connected to a network. It is an end point of a network connection
common to two or more lines in a network. Nodes can be processors, controllers
or workstations.
Noise
More technically referred to as electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio
frequency interference (RFI), electrical noise disrupts the smooth sine wave one
expects from utility power.
Number Portability
Number portability is the term used to describe capability of individuals,
businesses, and organizations to retain their existing telephone number(s) -and
the same quality of service - when switching to a new local service provider.
One-armed Router
A one-armed router is a router that routes traffic between virtual local
area networks (VLANs).
OSI Interconnection Model
The Open Systems Interconnection model was created by the International
Standards Organization to serve as a blueprint for all network communication
technologies dividing up all the processes of networking functions into seven
distinct layers. The highest layer is the application that a device is running
and with which a user may interact. The lowest layer is simply the physical
medium of data transfer, such as coaxial cable. Each layer has its own distinct
functions and services. There are a total of seven layers.
Packet Division Multiplexing
Different applications are assigned to different packets within the message
frame, instead of different time slots, as with TDM.
Packet Filter
Inspects each packet for user-defined content, such as an IP address, but
does not track the state of sessions. This is one of the least secure types of
firewalls.
Parabolic Antenna
The most frequently found satellite TV antenna. The function of the
parabolic shape is to focus the weak microwave signal hitting the surface of the
dish into a single focal point in front of the dish.
Passive Optical Network
A passive optical network (PON) is a system that brings optical fiber
cabling and signals all or most of the way to the end user. The optical
transmission has no power requirements or active electronic parts once the
signal is going through the network.
PBX
Private Branch eXchange. A small to medium sized customer premise telephone
system that is also a switch (computer) providing communications between onsite
telephones and exterior communications networks.
PC/PBX
Personal Computer Based Private Branch Exchange. Much more flexible than
traditional private branch exchanges because of the modular design of personal
computers.
PCMCIA/PC Card
Personal Computer Memory Card International Association. PC Cards are
removable, credit-card sized devices that may be plugged into slots in PCs and
wireless communication devices to provide fax or modem functions or network
cards.
PCS
Personal Communications Service (or System). PCS services include
next-generation wireless phone and communication services, wireless local loop,
low-powered handsets, in-building wireless LAN service for businesses, enhanced
paging service, etc. A personal communications system refers to the hardware and
software that provide communications services.
Peak Hours
Typically, when the demand for access to wireless networks is high during
the business day. Service providers typically charge full-service per-minute
rates during peak hours.
Personal Area Network
A personal area network is a technology that could enable wearable computer
devices to communicate with other nearby computers and exchange digital
information using the electrical conductivity of the human body as a data
network.
PCS
Personal Communications Services. PCS is a wireless phone service somewhat
similar to cellular telephone service but emphasizing personal service and
extended mobility. It is sometimes referred to as digital cellular (although
cellular systems can also be digital).
Peer-to-Peer Communications
A model in which each party has the same capabilities and can initiate a
communication session. In recent usage, peer-to-peer has come to describe
applications in which users can use the Internet to exchange files with each
other directly or through a mediating server.
Personal Identification Number
In the context of wireless devices, the personal identification number (PIN)
is a code used in conjunction with a SIM card to complete a call or data
transmission.
PKI
Public Key Infrastructure. Enables users of a basically non-secure public
network such as the Internet to securely and privately exchange data through the
use of a public and a private cryptographic key pair that is obtained and shared
through a trusted authority. PKI provides digital certificates that identify
individuals or organizations.
PMR
Private Mobile Radio. Generally for use within a defined user group such as
the emergency services or by the employees of a mining project.
Port
First and most generally, a place where information goes into or out of a
computer or both. On the Internet, port often refers to a number that is a part
of the URL, appearing after a colon (:) right after the domain name.
PRI
Primary Rate Interface. A type of ISDN service designed for large
organizations. Includes many B-channels (Bearer channels) and one D-channel
(Data channel).
Private Network
A network made up of circuits for the exclusive use of an organization or
group of affiliated organizations. Can be regional, national or international in
scope. Common in large organizations.
Propagation Delay
The amount of time it takes a signal to travel through a cable or system.
Protocol
Agreed-upon methods of communications used by computers. A specification
that describes the rules and procedures that products should follow to perform
activities on a network, such as transmitting data.
Proxy
A firewall mechanism that replaces the IP address of a host on the internal
(protected) network with its own IP address for all traffic passing through it.
PSTN
Public Switched Telephone Network. The complete public telephone system
comprising telephone exchanges, local and trunk lines and telephone sets.
PTN
Public Telephone Network. Usually a common carrier such as a telephone
company regulated by the FFC.
PTT
Historically, the Ministry of Post, Telecommunications and Telegraph. Now, a
term to describe the incumbent, dominant operator in a country, many of which
are being or have been privatized.
Public Switched Network
The public telephone network, which provides the capability of
interconnecting any home or office with any other.
Queue
Holds callers until an agent becomes available. Queue can also refer to a
line or list of items in a system waiting to be processed (for example, e-mail
messages).
Radio Link
Makes it possible to wirelessly connect a base station to telephone switches
and other units in an infrastructure.
Rate-adaptive DSL
This high-speed form of data transmission is derived from ADSL technologies
and is geared toward the residential market, with a few added features. RADSL
automatically adjusts line speed based on the condition of the line.
Receiver
An electronic device which enables a particular satellite signal to be
separated from all others being received by an earth station and converts the
signal format into a format for video, voice or data.
Repeater
Receives radio signals from the base station. They are then amplified and
re-transmitted to areas where radio shadow occurs. Repeaters also work in the
opposite direction, i.e. receiving radio signals from mobile telephones, then
amplifying and re-transmitting them to the base station.
RF
Radio Frequency. For trunking systems, this is usually in the 800 MHz or 900
MHz band. The signals are carried through the air over these ‘RF carrier
frequencies’.
Roaming
Within your home network, this means that your mobile phone automatically
sets up communication procedures with different radio base stations when on the
move. International roaming means that you can use networks other than your own,
when traveling abroad.
Router
A data switch that handles connections between different networks. A router
identifies the addresses on data passing through the switch, determines which
route the transmission should take and collects data in the so-called packets,
which are then sent to their destinations.
Routing
The forwarding of data packets in packet-switched networks to the intended
address.
Sags
Also known as brownouts, sags are short-term decreases in voltage levels.
This is the most common power problem, accounting for 87 percent of all power
disturbances, according to a study by Bell Labs.
Satellite Communications
The use of geostationary orbiting communication satellites to relay
transmission from one earth station to another or to several earth stations. It
takes only three satellites to cover the entire Earth.
Satellite Phone
They operate both on GSM/AMPs networks and via satellite in areas where
there is no coverage.
Satellite
A sophisticated electronic communications relay station orbiting 22,237
miles above the equator, moving in a fixed orbit at the same speed and direction
of the earth (about 7,000 mph east to west).
SCPC
Single Channel Per Carrier. Communications architecture that places one
source of information on to a single carrier (frequency domain). Economical ways
to get multiple signals on one transponder.
SDH
Synchronous Digital Hierarchy. A standard for digital signal transmission
within transport networks.
Server
A computer that provides a specific kind of service to client software
running on other computers. The term can refer to a particular piece of
software, such as a WWW server, or to the machine on which the software is
running.
Service Provider
A company that provides services and subscriptions to telephone, mobile
phone and Internet users.
Shared Hub
Satellite communications operations center that is shared among several
network users; often used for VSAT operations.
SIM Card
Subscriber Identity Module card. A small printed circuit board that must be
inserted in any GSM-based mobile telephone when signing on as a subscriber. It
contains subscriber details, security information and memory for a personal
directory of numbers.
Single Mode Fiber
A type of fiber cable capable of transmitting light over longer distances
than multimode fiber at extremely high speeds (tera and peta speeds). All of DWP’s
fiber optic cables consist exclusively of single mode fiber.
Slamming
The switching of a customer’s long distance service from one company to
another without the customer’s permission.
Smart Card
A plastic card with an embedded microchip (Integrated Circuit) which allows
the storage, addition and processing of information
SMR
Specialized Mobile Radio. This is a term that the FCC attached to the ‘for
public use’ trunking business. If a company has a wireless trunking backbone
system that is open for use by the general public (for a fee), then they are an
SMR.
SMS
Short Message Service. Available on digital networks, allowing messages of
up to 160 characters to be sent and received via the network operator’s
message center to your mobile phone.
SMTP
Simple Mail Transport Protocol. The main protocol used to send electronic
mail on the Internet. SMTP consists of a set of rules for how a program sending
mail and a program receiving mail should interact.
SNMP
Simple Network Management Protocol. SNMP consists of a simply composed set
of network communication specifications that cover all the basics of network
management in a method that poses little stress on an existing network
Spectrum
The range of electromagnetic radio frequencies used in transmission of
voice, data and television.
Splice
A physical connection between the ends of two fiber strands.
Spoofing
Pretending to be someone else. The deliberate inducement of a user or a
resource to take an incorrect action. Attempt to gain access to an Alarm
Indication Signal (AIS) by pretending to be an authorized user.
Spread Spectrum
The transmission of a signal using much wider bandwidth and power than would
normally be required. Spread spectrum also involves the use of narrower signals
that are frequency hopped through various parts of the transponder.
SSL
Secure Sockets Layer. A protocol designed by Netscape Communications to
enable encrypted, authenticated communications across the Internet. SSL is used
mostly (but not exclusively) in communications between web browsers and web
servers. URLs that begin with ‘http’ indicate that an SSL connection will be
used. SSL provides three important things: privacy, authentication and message
integrity.
Structured Query Language
Commonly used with database servers; powerful language used for the
creation, maintenance and viewing of databases.
Subscriber Line Charge
A monthly fee paid by telephone subscribers that is used to compensate the
local telephone company for part of the cost of installation and maintenance of
the telephone wire, poles, and other facilities that link your home to the
telephone network.
Switch
A network device that filters and forwards a piece of a message (also called
packets) between LAN segments.
Synchronous Optical Network
A fiber optic communications standard established by the American National
Standards Institute that covers multiple data transfer rates from 51.84 MBPS to
13.22 Gbps. It defines a physical interface, optical line rates known as optical
carrier signals, frame format, and an operations, administration, maintenance,
and provisioning protocol.
T-1
The US term for a digital carrier facility. A leased-line connection capable
of carrying data at 1,544,000 bits per second.
T-3
A digital WAN carrier facility. A leased-line connection capable of carrying
data at 44,736,000 bits-per-second.
T-4
273 Mbps, 4,032 channels.
Talk Time
The length of time a wireless device may be engaged in transmission (phone
conversations, sending or receiving data) before it runs out of battery power.
Talk time, expressed in hours and minutes, is much shorter than standby time
because transmission requires more power.
Tandem Switch
A tandem switch, also called a tandem office or a tandem, is an intermediate
point on the network. These nodes help route communications quickly and
efficiently through the network by concentrating and distributing traffic. In
the network hierarchy, tandem offices reside at a higher level than the central
offices.
TAPI
CTI protocol. Developed by Microsoft and Intel. TAPI is designed to integrate
telephony control into a users’ 32-bit desktop environment.
Tbps
Terabits. 1,000,000,000,000 bits per second.
TCP/IP
Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol. A protocol used to send
data in the form of individual units (called packets) between computers over the
Internet. While IP takes care of handling the actual delivery of the data, TCP
takes care of keeping track of the packets that a message is divided into for
efficient routing through the Internet.
TDM/TDMA
Time Division Multiplex/Multiple Access. A method for combining multiple
data circuits into one circuit (or vice versa) by assigning each circuit a fixed
unit of time for its data transmission.
Thinnet
Thicknet and Thinnet (sometimes called ThickWire and ThinWire) are commonly used
terms for the larger and smaller size of coaxial cable used in Ethernet LANs.
Thicknet, also known as Thickwire, is 0.4 inches in diameter and has 50 ohms of
electromagnetic impedance. Thinnet, also known as Thinwire and Cheapernet, is
0.2 inches in diameter with the same impedance as Thickwire.
Throughput Rate
The maximum repetitive rate at which a data-conversion system can operate
with a specified accuracy.
Token Passing Ring LAN
A token passing ring LAN is a LAN using a deterministic access mechanism and
topology, in which a supervisory frame (or token) is passed from station to
adjacent station sequentially.
Toll Bypass
Avoiding the long-distance carrier network (and associated tolls) when
connecting to another subscriber outside of the local area, by means of the
Internet, a private network, tie lines, etc.
Toll-Free Service
Enables callers to reach a call center out of the local calling area without
incurring charges.
Topology
The arrangement of cable and nodes in the network, known as the network
topology, is also considered part of hardware items. The physical topology
represents the physical layout of the network and is distinguished from the
logical topology, which determines how communication takes place in the network.
Traffic
Messages sent and received over a communication channel and measured in
Erlangs or other units.
Transciever
Combination of transmitter and receiver.
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