Centrex extension 1000 (shown in Figure 4-2)is a covering extension for three other extensions. It has a primary line (-1000) and three secondary lines (-1001, -1002, and -1003). With the secondary lines set for “delayed ring,” calls to those lines begin ringing at extension 1000 after about 20 seconds. This setup might be useful for someone who serves as a backup answering position for a department. (Alternatively, each of these four extensions could be assigned secondary lines for all the other members of the extension group, so that any member of the group could cover calls for any other member.)

The phone at extension 1007 (see Figure 4-3) has a primary line plus a single secondary line. With the secondary line set for “immediate ring,” all calls on the secondary line ring immediately at the covering extension. This setup is useful when someone screens all calls on a line, transferring them only when the user at the covered extension wants to take the call.

Incoming Call

rings immediately

Ext. 1008

Primary Secondary

Ext. 1007

Figure 4-3. Local Call Coverage: Immediate Call Answering

To set up Local Call Coverage, remove secondary lines from the receptionist’s phone (the phone connected to extension jack 10) and assign them to covering extensions as needed. (To have the receptionist keep covering some lines, remove only the lines that will be covered by other extensions.)

Adjust line ringing for primary and secondary lines to fit the type of call coverage you want. For example, set a primary line to “immediate ringing” (the default setting) if calls should ring first at the covered extension. Then set the line to “delayed ring” or “no ring” at the covering extension.

Button-Down Mode (#723) adjusts ringing for all phones. Designed for people who are accustomed to 1A Key systems, this setting means that calls ring only on an extension’s primary line (or on the intercom). When a call comes in on a secondary line, the lights next to the line button flash, but the call does not ring. The person at the covering extension must press the line button to answer the call. This prevents users from accidentally answering incoming calls on secondary lines when they are trying to place calls on their primary lines. At the

Customizing Your System 4-7

Page 54 Page 56
Page 55
Image 55
AT&T II manual Local Call Coverage Immediate Call Answering
Page 54 Page 56

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.
Top Page Image Contents