Chapter 1 Cisco Analog Telephone Adaptor Overview

Overview of the Skinny Client Control Protocol

Figure 1-2 The Cisco ATA 186 as an Endpoint in an SCCP Network

 

 

 

 

Layer 3

Telephone or fax

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IP infrastructure

Ethernet

 

 

Cisco CallManager

Cisco ATA 186

 

 

Voice

gateway

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PSTN

 

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Figure 1-3 The Cisco ATA 188 as an Endpoint in an SCCP Network

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Layer 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Telephone or fax

V

 

 

 

 

 

 

IP infrastructure

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ethernet

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cisco CallManager

Cisco ATA 188

 

 

 

 

Voice

gateway

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PSTN

 

82050

Overview of the Skinny Client Control Protocol

The Skinny Client Control Protocol (SCCP) is the Cisco standard for real-time calls and conferencing over Internet Protocol (IP). With SCCP, Cisco IP Phones can co-exist in an H.323 environment. When a Cisco CallManager is coupled with an H.323 Gatekeeper or an MGCP Call Agent, a Cisco ATA running SCCP interoperates with H.323 terminals on the far end to establish, control and clear audio calls.

Figure 1-4illustrates the architecture of an SCCP network.

Cisco ATA 186 and Cisco ATA 188 Analog Telephone Adaptor Administrator’s Guide (SCCP)

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Cisco Systems ATA 186 Overview of the Skinny Client Control Protocol, 4illustrates the architecture of an Sccp network
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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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