Debugging | Cisco Systems ATA 188, ATA 186 instruction

Chapter 8 Troubleshooting

Debugging

The MS-DOS Windows-based debugging program tool, preserv.exe, is included in every software upgrade package. The tool is also available from Cisco TAC. The prserv program is used in conjunction with the NPrintf configuration parameter (see the “NPrintf” section on page 5-26). This file serves as an upgrade server that captures debug information sent by the Cisco ATA software to your PC’s IP address and port number. This debug file (prserv.exe) compiles the information from the Cisco ATA into a readable log file. To capture this NPrintf information, you must know the IP address of the PC using the prserv program, illustrated as follows:

IP address.port

where IP address is the IP address of your PC, and port is 9001. If another process on your PC already uses port 9001, you may use some other value (legal values are from 1024 to 65535). If no port value is entered, the default value is 9001.

To enter the IP address and port number, use voice menu option 81#. You must enter the IP address and port number in alphanumeric format, which requires entering the * key after every character entered. To enter the "." character, you must enter the sequence 1 1#.

For example, for a computer with the IP address 172.28.78.90 and port number 9001 (172.28.78.90.9001), you would enter the following on your telephone handset:

1* 7* 2* 1 1* 2* 8* 1 1* 7* 8* 1 1* 9* 0* 1 1* 9* 0* 0* 1* *

To operate the debug capture program prserv.exe, place the prserv program in a folder on your PC; then at the DOS prompt of the folder where you have placed it, enter:

C:> prserv port.log

where port is the port number you have selected. If you do not enter port.log, debug information still appears on your screen, but it is not saved to a log file.

After you finish capturing debug information, you can stop the log program by entering Ctrl-C at the DOS prompt. The log file created is named port.log. If you restart the process without changing the name of the log file, any new debug information is appended to the end of the original file.

Contact Cisco TAC for more information. See the “Obtaining Technical Assistance” section on page xiv for instructions.

You should also have access to a sniffer or LAN analyzer.

Caution For security reasons, Cisco recommends that you do not use the web interface over the public network. Disable the web interface, using the UIPassword parameter, before the Cisco ATA is moved from the service provider site.

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

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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.