Using System Diagnostics, Message Syntax

Chapter 8 Troubleshooting

Using System Diagnostics

The Cisco ATA uses functionality of the syslog protocol for system diagnostics. For detailed information on syslog, see RFC-3164.

Note Because the Cisco ATA does not have an internal clock, syslog messages provide the time offset from the most recent Cisco ATA reset. The system administrator should make sure that the syslog relay or syslog server adds the local timestamps upon receiving syslog messages.

Message Syntax

<Priority>Time_Offset ATA_IP [tag] : [ch]Message

Syntax Definitions

•Priority means the facility and severity values for a specific syslog message.

Priority = (facility value) * 8 + (severity value). Facility and severity definitions and values are supplied in RFC-3164; these values can be calculated if you know the priority value.

•Time_offset means the time elapsed since the most recent Cisco ATA reset.

If the time offset is less than 24 hours, this value is shown as:

hh:mm:ss

If the time offset is more than 24 hours, this value is shown as:

dd hh:mm:ss

where the first d is the number of days elapsed since the most recent reset, and the second d is the letter d.

•ATA_IP means the IP address of ATA.

•tag means the tag number of the syslog message. Each tag number corresponds to a particular type of message, such as an ARP message. You can turn on tracing for each type of message you want captured by configuring the Cisco ATA parameter syslogCtrl. For more information about the syslogCtrl parameter and for a complete listing of tag numbers and their corresponding message types, see the “SyslogCtrl” section on page 5-42.

Syslog information is sent to the syslog server that you configure by means of the Cisco ATA syslogIP parameter. For more information, see the “SyslogIP” section on page 5-41.

•ch means the active line of the Cisco ATA. System-level messages do not contain a ch field.

•Message means the syslog message. (See RFC-3164 for message formats and how to interpret the meaning of each syslog message.)

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

8-6	OL-4803-01

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.