Understanding the Phone Startup Process

Chapter 2 Preparing to Install the Cisco Unified IP Phone on Your Network

When connecting to the VoIP network, the Cisco Unified IP Phone 7960G and 7940G go through a standard startup process that is described in Table 2-3. Depending on your specific network configuration, not all of these steps may occur on your Cisco Unified IP Phone.

Table 2-3		Cisco Unified IP Phone 7960G and 7940G Startup Process

Task	Description		Related Topics

1.	Obtain power from the switch.		• Adding Phones to the Cisco
	If a phone is not using external power, the switch provides		Unified Communications Manager Database,
			page 2-7.
	in-line power through the Ethernet cable attached to the

	phone.		• Resolving Startup Problems, page 8-1.

2.	Load the stored phone image.		Resolving Startup Problems, page 8-1.
	The Cisco Unified IP Phone has non-volatile Flash memory
	in which it stores firmware images and user-defined
	preferences. At startup, the phone runs a bootstrap loader
	that loads a phone image stored in Flash memory. Using this
	image, the phone initializes its software and hardware.

3.	Configure the VLAN.		• Network Configuration Menu, page 4-4.
	If the Cisco Unified IP Phone is connected to a		• Resolving Startup Problems, page 8-1.
	Cisco Catalyst switch, the switch next informs the phone of
	the voice VLAN defined on the switch. The phone needs to
	know its VLAN membership before it can proceed with the
	Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) request for
	an IP address.

4.	Obtain an IP address.		• Network Configuration Menu, page 4-4.
	If the Cisco Unified IP Phone is using DHCP to obtain an		• Resolving Startup Problems, page 8-1.
	IP address, the phone queries the DHCP server to obtain
	one. If you are not using DHCP in your network, you must
	assign static IP addresses to each phone locally.

5.	Access a TFTP server.		• Network Configuration Menu, page 4-4.
	In addition to assigning an IP address, the DHCP server		• Resolving Startup Problems, page 8-1.
	directs the Cisco Unified IP Phone to a TFTP Server. If the
	phone has a statically-defined IP address, you must
	configure the TFTP server locally on the phone; the phone
	then contacts the TFTP server directly.
	Note You can also assign an alternative TFTP server to
		use instead of the one assigned by DHCP.

6.	Request the CTL file.		For more information, refer to the Cisco
	The TFTP server stores the certificate trust list (CTL) file.		Unified Communications Manager Security Guide

	This file contains a list of Cisco Unified Communications
	Managers and TFTP servers that the phone is authorized to
	connect to. It also contains the certificates necessary for
	establishing a secure connection between the phone and
	Cisco Unified Communications Manager.

Cisco Unified IP Phone 7960G/7940G Administration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager 7.0 (SCCP)

2-6	OL-15498-01

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.

Cisco Systems 7960G, 7940G Understanding the Phone Startup Process, Description Related Topics

Models: 7960G 7940G

Understanding the Phone Startup Process

Description

Related Topics

Unified Communications Manager Security Guide

7960G, 7940G specifications