Chapter 3 Configuring the Cisco ATA for MGCP

Configuring the Cisco ATA Using a TFTP Server

This completes the parameter settings and DHCP options you need to configure for this procedure. The Cisco ATA will contact the DHCP server for the IP address of the TFTP server that contains the Cisco ATA configuration file.

Procedure if DHCP Server is not Under Control of Cisco ATA Administrator

This is the procedure to use if the DHCP server is not under the control of the Cisco ATA administrator, which means that the URL of the TFTP server must be manually configured.

Procedure

Step 1 Using the voice configuration menu, set the parameter TftpURL to the IP address or URL of the TFTP server. For more information on setting the TftpURL parameter, see the “TftpURL” section on page 5-5. For information about using the Cisco ATA voice configuration menu, see the “Voice Configuration Menu” section on page 3-20.

Note If you are not using a DHCP server to provide the TFTP server location, you must manually configure the TftfURL. You can do this by using the voice configuration menu without first obtaining network connectivity for the Cisco ATA. If you want to configure this value using the Web configuration page, you first must obtain network connectivity by using the voice configuration menu to statically configure IP address information (see the “Voice Configuration Menu” section on page 3-20).

Step 2 Use the default value of 1 for the Cisco ATA parameter DHCP.

Step 3 Use the default value of 1 for the Cisco ATA parameter UseTftp.

This completes the parameter settings you need to configure for this procedure. The Cisco ATA will contact the manually configured TFTP server that contains the Cisco ATA configuration file.

Other DHCP Options You Can Set

The following parameters can also be configured with DHCP:

•Boot file name of DHCP header—The ata<macaddress> binary Cisco ATA configuration file, which can have a maximum of 31 characters and can be any name with printable ASCII characters

•Client PC address

•DHCP option 1—Client Subnet Mask

•DHCP option 3—Routers on the client’s subnet

•DHCP option 6—One or two Domain Name servers

•DHCP option 42—One or two Network Time Protocol servers

Note DHCP options 43 and 60 are set by the Cisco ATA. Option 43 specifies the protocol and option 60 identifies the vendor class of the Cisco ATA box.

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

 

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Cisco Systems ATA 188, ATA 186 manual Other Dhcp Options You Can Set
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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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