About This Guide

Purpose

The system described in this guide consists of premises equipment and Centrex services. Although the terms “premises equipment,” “Centrex services,” and “system” have broader meanings elsewhere, this guide uses those terms to refer specifically to the following definitions:

■Premises equipment refers to the AT&T equipment controller and MLS- and MLC-model telephones that you purchased as part of your Partner® II Centrex Communications System, plus all other telecommunications devices connected to your equipment controller. This equipment is installed at your place of business.

■Centrex services include the Centrex lines that are connected to the equipment controller and the features available on those Centrex lines. These services (which may be offered in your area under a different name such as ESSX,® CENTRON,® or Plexar®) must be arranged for separately with your local telephone company.

■System refers to the combination of premises equipment and Centrex services described above.

The main purpose of this guide is to provide instructions for installing, programming, and using your premises equipment. Because the selection of services available from the local phone companies continually expands and changes—to keep pace with the needs of businesses and with technological advances in the world of communications—this guide does not provide detailed information about Centrex services. For specific information about your Centrex services, see the Centrex documentation provided by your local telephone company.

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AT&T II manual About This Guide, Purpose
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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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