Default Boot Load Behavior

Chapter 3 Configuring the Cisco ATA for SCCP

•Cisco ATA Web Configuration Page, page 3-21—This section shows the Cisco ATA Web configuration page and contains a procedure for how to configure Cisco ATA parameters using this interface.

•Resetting the Cisco ATA Using Cisco CallManager, page 3-23—This section gives the procedure (via the Cisco CallManager administration web pages) for resetting the Cisco ATA so that your configuration changes take effect.

•Upgrading the SCCP Signaling Image, page 3-24—This section provides references to the various means of upgrading your Cisco ATA signaling image.

Note The term Cisco ATA is used throughout this manual to refer to both the Cisco ATA 186 and the Cisco ATA 188, unless differences between the Cisco ATA 186 and Cisco ATA 188 are explicitly stated.

Before configuring the Cisco ATA, you need to know how the default Cisco ATA boot load process works. Once you understand this process, you will be able to configure the Cisco ATA by following the instructions provided in this section and in the sections that follow.

All Cisco ATAs are shipped with a boot load signaling-protocol image. However, because this image is not a fully functional Cisco ATA image, the Cisco ATA seeks to obtain the image-load information from the Cisco CallManager and perform a software upgrade. In addition, the Cisco ATA obtains the necessary SCCP-specific configuration files for Cisco CallManager communication and the Cisco ATA configuration file during the boot load process.

The following list summarizes the default Cisco ATA behavior during its boot-up process:

1.The Cisco ATA uses the Cisco Discovery Protocol (CDP) to discover which VLAN to enter. If the Cisco ATA receives a VLAN ID response from the network switch, the Cisco ATA enters that VLAN and adds 802.1Q VLAN tags to its IP packets. If the Cisco ATA does not receive a response with a VLAN ID from the network switch, then the Cisco ATA assumes it is not operating in a VLAN environment and does not perform VLAN tagging on its packets.

Note If your network environment is not set up to handle this default behavior, make the necessary configuration changes by referring to the “Specifying a Preconfigured VLAN ID or Disabling VLAN IP Encapsulation” section on page 3-3.

2.The Cisco ATA contacts the DHCP server to request its own IP address.

Note If your network environment does not contain a DHCP server, you need to statically configure various IP addresses so that the Cisco ATA can obtain network connectivity. For a list of parameters that you must configure to obtain network connectivity, see Table 3-6 on page 3-19. For instructions on how to use the voice configuration menu, which you must use to perform this configuration, see the “Voice Configuration Menu” section on page 3-18.

3.Also from the DHCP server, the Cisco ATA requests the IP address of the Cisco CallManager TFTP server.

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

3-2	OL-3141-01

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.

Default Boot Load Behavior

OL-3141-01

ATA 188, ATA 186 specifications