Preface

Organization and Use

Organization and Use

Organization

Table 1 provides an overview of the organization of this guide.

Table 1 Cisco ATA 186 and Cisco ATA 188 Analog Telephone Administrator’s Guide (MGCP) Organization

Chapter

Description

 

 

Chapter 1, “Cisco Analog Telephone Adaptor Overview”

Provides descriptions of hardware and software features of

 

the Cisco ATA Analog Telephone Adaptor along with a brief

 

overview of the Media Gateway Control Protocol (MGCP).

 

 

Chapter 2, “Installing the Cisco ATA”

Provides information about installing the Cisco ATA.

 

 

Chapter 3, “Configuring the Cisco ATA for MGCP”

Provides information about how to configure the Cisco ATA

 

and about the different configuration methods you can use.

 

 

Chapter 4, “Cisco ATA-Supported MGCP Services”

Provides a list of required parameters and information about

 

MGCP-specific services that the Cisco ATA supports.

 

 

Chapter 5, “Parameters and Defaults”

Provides information on the parameters and defaults that you

 

can use to configure the Cisco ATA.

 

 

Chapter 6, “Configuring and Debugging Fax Services”

Provides instructions for configuring both ports of the

 

Cisco ATA to support fax transmission.

 

 

Chapter 7, “Upgrading the Cisco ATA Signaling Image”

Provides instructions for remotely upgrading the Cisco ATA

 

signaling image.

 

 

Chapter 8, “Troubleshooting”

Provides basic testing and troubleshooting procedures for the

 

Cisco ATA.

 

 

Appendix A, “Voice Configuration Menu Codes”

Provides a quick-reference list of the voice configuration

 

menu options for the Cisco ATA.

 

 

Appendix B, “Cisco ATA Specifications”

Provides physical specifications for the Cisco ATA.

 

 

Appendix C, “MGCP Call Flows”

Provides Cisco ATA call flows for MGCP scenarios.

 

 

Appendix D, “Recommended Cisco ATA Tone Parameter

Provides tone parameters for various countries.

Values by Country”

 

 

 

Index

Provides reference information.

 

 

Glossary

Provides definitions of commonly used terms.

 

 

Conventions

This document uses the following conventions:

Alternative keywords are grouped in braces and separated by vertical bars (for example, {x y z}).

Arguments for which you supply values are in italic font.

Commands and keywords are in boldface font.

Elements in square brackets ([ ]) are optional.

Information you must enter is in boldface screen font.

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

 

x

OL-4803-01

 

 

 

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Cisco Systems ATA 186 manual Organization and Use, Conventions, Chapter Description

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.