Upgrade Requirements, Syntax, Definitions

Chapter 7 Upgrading the Cisco ATA Signaling Image

Upgrading the Signaling Image Manually

Upgrade Requirements

The following list contains the requirements for using the ata186us.exe file and the voice configuration menu to upgrade the Cisco ATA to the latest signaling image:

•A network connection between the PC from which you will invoke the executable file and the Cisco ATA

•A PC running Microsoft Windows 9X/ME/NT/2000

Syntax

ata186us [-any]{-h[host_ip]} {-p[port]} {-quiet} [-d1 -d2 -d3] <image file>

Definitions

•-any—Allow upgrade regardless of software and build versions (recommended).

•-h[host_ip]—Set the upgrade server to a specific IP address in cases where there may be more than one IP address for the host. The default behavior is that the program will use the first IP address it obtains when it runs the gethostbyname command.

•-p[port]—Set the server port to a specific port number (the default port number is 8000; use a different port number only if you are setting up an upgrade server other than the default).

•-quiet—Quiet mode; send all output to log file named as [port].log (useful when running the upgrade server as a daemon).

•-d1,-d2,-d3—Choose a verbosity level for debugging, with -d3 being the most verbose.

•image file—This is the name of the signaling image file to which the Cisco ATA will upgrade.

Example

To upgrade the Cisco ATA to the signaling image ata186-v2-15-020723a.zup, you can use the following syntax:

ata186us -any -d1 ata186-v2-15-020723a.zup

Upgrade Procedure

To perform the upgrade, follow these steps:

Procedure

Step 1 Run the executable file (see the “Syntax” section on page 7-5) from the Microsoft Windows DOS or command prompt. You will receive instructions on how to upgrade.

Step 2 On the Cisco ATA, press the function button to invoke the voice configuration menu.

Cisco ATA 186 and Cisco ATA 188 Analog Telephone Adaptor Administrator’s Guide (SCCP)

	OL-3141-01	7-5

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.