Chapter 6 Configuring and Debugging Fax Services

Debugging the Cisco ATA 186/188 Fax Services

prserv Overview

prserv is a tool that runs on a Microsoft Windows-based PC and serves as a log server that captures debug information that the Cisco ATA sends to your PC IP address/port. The debug information is saved into a readable text file.

To enable your Cisco ATA to send debug information, you need to set the NPrintf configuration parameter to your PC IP address and an available port, as shown in the following procedure:

Procedure

Step 1 <IP address>.<port>

<IP address> is the IP address of your PC.

<port> is any unused port (any number from 1024 to 65535) on your PC.

Note You can configure the Nprintf parameter on the Cisco ATA Web configuration page or with the TFTP-based configuration method.

Step 2 To operate the debug capture program prserv.exe, place the prserv program in a folder on your PC. At the DOS prompt, enter:

C:>prserv <port>

<port> is the port number you have selected. If <port> is omitted, the default port number is 9001.

As prserv receives debug information from the Cisco ATA, it displays the information on the DOS screen and saves it to the output file <port>.log.

Once you are finished capturing debug information, you can stop prserv by entering Ctrl-C at the DOS prompt. If you restart the process without changing the name of the log file, any new debug information is appended to the end of the original file.

Analyzing prserv Output for Fax Sessions

The debug log obtained from prserv is for detecting simple configuration problems.

Note A comprehensive understanding of the fax events requires the use of the rtpcatch tool (see the “Using rtpcatch for Diagnosing Fax Problems” section on page 6-12).

Table 6-2lists log events relevant to analyzing a fax session.

Cisco ATA 186 and Cisco ATA 188 Analog Telephone Adaptor Administrator’s Guide for MGCP (version 3.0)

 

OL-4803-01

6-9

 

 

 

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Cisco Systems ATA 188, ATA 186 manual Prserv Overview, Analyzing prserv Output for Fax Sessions
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ATA 188, ATA 186 specifications

The Cisco Systems ATA 186, or Analog Telephone Adapter, revolutionized the way traditional telephony interacted with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems. Designed primarily for home and small office use, the ATA 186 allows users to connect standard analog phones and fax machines to a network, enabling them to take advantage of the benefits of VoIP technology.

One of the defining features of the ATA 186 is its dual port architecture. It includes two FXS ports, allowing users to connect up to two analog telephones. This functionality means that multiple devices can leverage VoIP services simultaneously without the need for separate adapters for each phone. The flexibility of the ATA 186 helps streamline the user experience, facilitating voice communication over an IP network while ensuring users can still use their existing phone equipment.

The ATA 186 employs various technologies to maintain high-quality voice calls. It supports standard voice codecs such as G.711 and G.729, which ensure efficient bandwidth usage while preserving call clarity. The adaptive jitter buffer technology further enhances call quality, compensating for network variations and minimizing latency, which is crucial for clear and uninterrupted conversations.

Additionally, the ATA 186 provides users with advanced calling features that were traditionally available only on PBX systems. These features include caller ID, call waiting, and voicemail functionality, integrating seamlessly with typical telephony services. The device also supports T.38 fax relay, allowing users to send and receive faxes over the internet, thus addressing the needs of environments where fax communication remains essential.

The security of VoIP conversations is also a priority for the ATA 186. It employs encryption protocols such as Secure Real-time Transport Protocol (SRTP) and Transport Layer Security (TLS), ensuring that voice data is securely transmitted across the network. This focus on security helps protect sensitive information transmitted during calls.

Installation and configuration of the ATA 186 is streamlined, with an intuitive web-based interface that simplifies the setup process. This accessibility makes it suitable for users with varying levels of technical expertise, as frequently required adjustments, such as network configurations and firmware updates, can be easily managed.

In conclusion, the Cisco Systems ATA 186 stands out as a versatile and robust solution for users looking to integrate analog phones into a VoIP environment. With its dual port capabilities, high-quality voice codecs, advanced call features, and security measures, it offers a compelling choice for both residential and commercial users seeking seamless telephony integration. As technology evolves, devices like the ATA 186 remain cornerstones in bridging traditional telephony with modern communication systems.
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