O

One-touch Intercom Calling button

See Intercom Calling button.

Outside call

A call made from outside the Centrex system to an extension within the Centrex system, or from inside the Centrex system to a number outside the Centrex system. If your Centrex system uses a dial-out code (usually a “9”), you must dial it before you dial an outside telephone number.

P

Premises equipment

The AT&T equipment controller and MLS- and MLC-model telephones that you purchased as part of your system, plus all other telecommunications devices that are connected to your equipment controller. For purposes of this guide, premises equipment does not include any equipment that connects directly to Centrex lines without going through the equipment controller. See also System and Centrex system.

Primary carrier

The required component of the AT&T equipment controller that contains the primary processor module and up to two 206 modules and two 400 modules. The primary carrier provides for connection of up to 12 lines and 12 extensions. See also Expansion carrier.

Primary line

The main Centrex line assigned to an extension, generally used to place and receive all calls for that extension. When a caller dials a phone number, the call rings immediately at the extension where the line is assigned as a primary line (unless line ringing is changed to let another extension screen calls on the line). See also Secondary line and Primary line button.

Primary line button

The bottom leftmost line button on an MLS- or MLC-model phone. See also Primary line.

Primary processor module

This AT&T module, which is always installed in the center slot of the primary carrier, manages the components of your premises equipment. See also Expansion processor module.

Primary programming extension

The main extension from which you program premises equipment, using the phone connected to extension jack 10 on your equipment controller. See also Backup programming extension.

Programmable button

A telephone button that can be set up to access a feature. On MLS- and MLC-model phones, programmable buttons can be used as Auto Dial buttons (for one-touch dialing of Centrex feature codes or telephone numbers) or equipment feature buttons.

Proprietary device

A telephone or other device that is designed to work with a specific system, and requires a special interface to connect to the public telephone network. For example, MLS- and MLC-model telephones are proprietary devices that can only be used with the equipment controller described in this guide. See also Industry-standard device.

R

Recall

An equipment feature that sends a timed switchhook flash to let you access a Centrex service. (Use Recall only on an outside or inside call; using Recall on an intercom call disconnects the call.)

Ringer Equivalence Number (REN)

A measure of the power it takes to ring a phone or other telecommunications device, usually shown on a label on the bottom of the device.

S

Secondary line

A line assigned to an extension for call coverage purposes, generally with delayed or no ringing. When a call comes in on the line, it rings first at the extension where it is assigned as the primary line; only if there is no answer does it ring at the extension where it is a secondary line. See also Primary line.

SMDR (Station Message Detail Recoding)

See Call reporting.

Speed dialing

A feature that lets a user dial a telephone number quickly by dialing a short code.

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II specifications

AT&T II, a pivotal case in the landscape of telecommunications regulation, emerged from the expansive antitrust actions against the American Telephone and Telegraph Company (AT&T). Following World War II, AT&T had established itself as a telecommunications behemoth, monopolizing the market. The ramifications of this dominance spurred a significant shift in regulatory measures, leading to the dissolution of the Bell System in 1984, which consisted of AT&T and its regional operating companies.

One key feature of AT&T II is its emphasis on promoting competition in the telecommunications sector. The court's decision aimed to dismantle the monopolistic practices that had stifled innovation and restricted consumer choice. By encouraging competition among various service providers, the ruling paved the way for an environment where new technologies could flourish.

The technologies that emerged post-AT&T II significantly transformed the telecommunications landscape. The introduction of new digital switching systems allowed for improved call quality and increased network efficiency. The evolution of fiber-optic technology also played a crucial role, enabling faster transmission speeds and greater data capacity. Moreover, innovative services, such as mobile telephony and broadband internet, proliferated as competition increased.

Another characteristic of AT&T II is its focus on accessibility and consumer protection. The ruling mandated that telecommunications services be available to a broader swath of the population, ensuring that underserved communities had access to essential communication services. This shift not only democratized access but also laid the groundwork for the modern internet revolution, fostering the growth of the digital economy.

The impact of AT&T II can also be seen in the regulatory frameworks that followed. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted policies aimed at enhancing market transparency and ensuring fair practices among competitors. These regulatory changes helped to create a more equitable playing field, allowing smaller companies to compete against established giants.

In summary, AT&T II marked a turning point in telecommunications history, characterized by a focus on competition, technological advancements, and consumer protection. The dissolution of AT&T's monopoly allowed for the rapid evolution of technology and services, ultimately benefiting consumers and fostering an environment ripe for innovation. This ruling not only redefined the telecommunications industry but also set a precedent for how markets are regulated in the United States.
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