Chapter 8 Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Using the Quality Report Tool

Using the Quality Report Tool

The Quality Report Tool (QRT) is a voice quality and general problem-reporting tool for the

Cisco Unified IP Phone 7960G/7940G. This tool is installed as part of the

Cisco Unified Communications Manager installation.

You can configure users’ Cisco Unified IP Phone with QRT so they can report problems with phone calls. Users can report issues by using the Cisco Unified IP Phone softkey labeled QRT. The QRT softkey is available only when the Cisco Unified IP Phone is in the Connected, Connected Conference, Connected Transfer, and/or OnHook states.

When users press the QRT softkey on their IP phone, they are presented with a list of problem categories. Users can then choose the appropriate problem category, and their feedback is logged in an XML file. Actual information logged depends on the user selection and whether the destination device is a Cisco Unified IP Phone.

For more information about using QRT, refer to Cisco Unified Communications Manager Features and Services Guide.

Monitoring the Voice Quality of Calls

To measure the voice quality of calls that are sent and received within the network, Cisco Unified IP Phones use these statistical metrics that are based on concealment events. The DSP plays concealment frames to mask frame loss in the voice packet stream.

Concealment Ratio metrics—Show the ratio of concealment frames over total speech frames. An interval conceal ratio is calculated every 3 seconds.

Concealed Second metrics—Show the number of seconds in which the DSP plays concealment frames due to lost frames. A severely “concealed second” is a second in which the DSP plays more than five percent concealment frames.

MOS-LQK metrics—Use a numeric score to estimate the relative voice listening quality. The Cisco Unified IP Phone calculates the mean opinion score (MOS) for listening quality (LQK) based audible concealment events due to frame loss in the preceding 8 seconds, and includes perceptual weighting factors such as codec type and frame size.

MOS LQK scores are produced by a Cisco proprietary algorithm that is an implementation of P.VTQ, an ITU provisional standard.

Note Concealment ratio and concealment seconds are primary measurements based on frame loss while MOS LQK scores project a “human-weighted” version of the same information on a scale from 5 (excellent) to 1 (bad) for measuring listening quality.

Listening quality scores (MOS LQK) relate to the clarity or sound of the received voice signal. Conversational quality scores (MOS CQ such as G.107) include impairment factors, such as delay, that degrade the natural flow of conversation.

For information about configuring voice quality metrics for phones, refer to the “Phone Features” section in the “Cisco Unified IP Phone” chapter in Cisco Unified Communications Manager System Guide.

You can access voice quality metrics from the Cisco Unified IP Phone by using the Call Statistics screen (see the “Call Statistics Screen” section on page 6-10) or remotely by using Streaming Statistics (see Chapter 7, “Monitoring the Cisco Unified IP Phone Remotely”).

 

 

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Cisco Systems 7940G, 7960G manual Using the Quality Report Tool, Monitoring the Voice Quality of Calls

7960G, 7940G specifications

Cisco Systems has long been a leader in creating innovative networking and communication solutions. Among their range of Voice over IP (VoIP) phones, the Cisco 7960G and 7940G stand out as robust, versatile devices that cater to the needs of modern businesses. Released in the early 2000s, these models respectively combine functionality, ease of use, and key features tailored for effective communication.

The Cisco 7960G is a high-end model designed for users who demand advanced features and functionalities. It comes with a large backlit LCD display that not only enhances visibility but also provides easy navigation through various options. The phone supports up to six lines, allowing users to manage multiple calls effortlessly. Its user-friendly interface includes programmable feature buttons and a 10/100 Ethernet switch, enabling seamless integration into existing networks.

On the other hand, the Cisco 7940G is a more basic model designed for users who require essential features for their business communications. It includes a monochrome LCD screen and supports a maximum of two lines. Despite its simplicity, the 7940G is equipped with several key features such as integrated speakerphone and mute options, making it ideal for day-to-day communication needs. Both models support Power over Ethernet (PoE), eliminating the need for separate power adapters and ensuring a cleaner, more organized workspace.

In terms of technologies, both the 7960G and 7940G leverage the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) for signaling and media exchange. They also support secure communication through protocols like Secure Real-time Transport Protocol (SRTP) and Transport Layer Security (TLS). This ensures that businesses can engage in confidential conversations without the risk of interception.

The characteristics that make these models appealing include durability, ease of configuration, and reliability. Organizations can benefit from Cisco’s reliable support and regular updates, ensuring that their communication infrastructure remains robust and secure. With features designed for scalability, both phones can easily integrate into larger systems while maintaining high call quality.

In summary, Cisco’s 7960G and 7940G VoIP phones are exemplary devices that cater to a variety of business communication scenarios. With their blend of functionality, support for essential technologies, and reliable performance, they continue to serve organizations effectively in an increasingly interconnected world. Whether used in a bustling office or as part of a dynamic telecommunications strategy, these models offer excellent value and performance.