ConnectMode, Recommended Setting | Cisco Systems ATA 188, ATA 186

Chapter 6 Configuring and Debugging Fax Services

Using Fax Pass-through Mode

ConnectMode

Description

The ConnectMode parameter is a 32-bit value. The parameter settings apply to both lines of the Cisco ATA. Configure ConnectMode after configuring AudioMode for fax pass-through mode. Cisco recommends you use the following ConnectMode setting to interoperate with a Cisco IOS gateway.

Recommended Setting

0x90000400

Translation

This setting translates to the bitmap:

1001 0000 0000 0000 0000 0100 0000 0000

Bit 2 and bits 7 through 15 are the only relevant bits for fax pass-through mode. These bits from the example are isolated below:

xxxx xxxx xxxx xxxx 0000 0100 0xxx x0xx

•Bit 2 = 0—Uses RTP payload number 126/127 for fax upspeed to G.711µ−law/G.711A-law. Set this value to 1 if you want to use RTP payload number 0/8 for fax upspeed.

•Bit 7 = 0—Disables fax pass-through redundancy. Set this bit to 1 to enable redundancy. With redundancy enabled, the Cisco ATA sends each packet twice. Because of bandwidth and transmission time costs, use this option only if network quality is poor and all other gateways used in the network support this feature.

•Bits {12, 11, 10, 9, 8} = {0, 0, 1, 0, 0}—Sets the offset to NSE payload-type number 96 to 4. Setting the offset to 4 results in the Cisco ATA sending an NSE payload-type value of 100 by default. Valid offset values range from 2 to 23 (NSE payload type value of 98 to 119). Set this value to match the value for your Cisco gateways.

Most Cisco MGCP-based gateways, such as Cisco 6608, use NSE payload type 101 by default. Most Cisco H.323/SIP-based gateways use NSE payload type 100 by default.

•Bit 13 = 0—Uses G.711µ−law for fax pass-through upspeed. Set this bit to 1 to use G.711A for fax pass-through upspeed.

•Bit 14 = Bit 15 = 0—Enables fax pass-through mode using the Cisco proprietary method (recommended). Set both of these bits to 1 to disable fax pass-through mode.

Configuring Cisco IOS Gateways to Enable Fax Pass-through

To configure your IOS gateways to network with Cisco ATA, do the following:

Procedure

Step 1 Enable Fax Pass-through Mode, page 6-4

Step 2 Disable Fax Relay Feature, page 6-5

Cisco ATA 186 and Cisco ATA 188 Analog Telephone Adaptor Administrator’s Guide for MGCP (version 3.0)

	OL-4803-01	6-3

ATA 188, ATA 186 specifications

The Cisco Systems ATA 186, or Analog Telephone Adapter, revolutionized the way traditional telephony interacted with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems. Designed primarily for home and small office use, the ATA 186 allows users to connect standard analog phones and fax machines to a network, enabling them to take advantage of the benefits of VoIP technology.

One of the defining features of the ATA 186 is its dual port architecture. It includes two FXS ports, allowing users to connect up to two analog telephones. This functionality means that multiple devices can leverage VoIP services simultaneously without the need for separate adapters for each phone. The flexibility of the ATA 186 helps streamline the user experience, facilitating voice communication over an IP network while ensuring users can still use their existing phone equipment.

The ATA 186 employs various technologies to maintain high-quality voice calls. It supports standard voice codecs such as G.711 and G.729, which ensure efficient bandwidth usage while preserving call clarity. The adaptive jitter buffer technology further enhances call quality, compensating for network variations and minimizing latency, which is crucial for clear and uninterrupted conversations.

Additionally, the ATA 186 provides users with advanced calling features that were traditionally available only on PBX systems. These features include caller ID, call waiting, and voicemail functionality, integrating seamlessly with typical telephony services. The device also supports T.38 fax relay, allowing users to send and receive faxes over the internet, thus addressing the needs of environments where fax communication remains essential.

The security of VoIP conversations is also a priority for the ATA 186. It employs encryption protocols such as Secure Real-time Transport Protocol (SRTP) and Transport Layer Security (TLS), ensuring that voice data is securely transmitted across the network. This focus on security helps protect sensitive information transmitted during calls.

Installation and configuration of the ATA 186 is streamlined, with an intuitive web-based interface that simplifies the setup process. This accessibility makes it suitable for users with varying levels of technical expertise, as frequently required adjustments, such as network configurations and firmware updates, can be easily managed.

In conclusion, the Cisco Systems ATA 186 stands out as a versatile and robust solution for users looking to integrate analog phones into a VoIP environment. With its dual port capabilities, high-quality voice codecs, advanced call features, and security measures, it offers a compelling choice for both residential and commercial users seeking seamless telephony integration. As technology evolves, devices like the ATA 186 remain cornerstones in bridging traditional telephony with modern communication systems.