Chapter 3 Configuring the Cisco ATA for MGCP

Steps Needed to Configure the Cisco ATA

Table 3-3 Basic Steps to Configure the Cisco ATA in a TFTP Environment

Action

Reference

1.

Download the desired Cisco ATA release software zip file from

Setting Up the TFTP Server with Cisco ATA

 

the Cisco web site and store it on the TFTP server.

Software, page 3-8

 

 

 

2.

Follow these basic steps to create a unique Cisco ATA

Creating Unique and Common Cisco ATA

 

configuration file, which actually entails creating two files:

Configuration Files, page 3-9

a.Create a Cisco ATA configuration text file that contains parameters that are common to all Cisco ATAs in your network.

b.Create a unique Cisco ATA configuration text file that contains parameters that are specific to a Cisco ATA.

Make sure to use an include command in the unique configuration file to pull in values from the common configuration file.

c.Convert the unique configuration file to binary format.

d.Place the unique binary configuration file on the TFTP server.

3.

Optionally, create a default configuration file called

atadefault.cfg Configuration File, page 3-17

 

atadefault.cfg, which the Cisco ATA will download from the

 

 

TFTP server only if the unique Cisco ATA file called

 

 

ata<macaddress> (with a possible file extension) does not exist

 

 

on the TFTP server. For information about possible configuration

 

 

file names, see the “Configuration Files that the cfgfmt Tool

 

 

Creates” section on page 3-13.

 

 

 

 

4.

Configure the upgradecode parameter so that the Cisco ATA will

Upgrading the Signaling Image from a TFTP Server,

 

obtain the correct signaling image from the TFTP server when the

page 7-1

 

Cisco ATA powers up.

 

 

 

 

5.

Configure the desired interval for the Cisco ATA to contact the

Configuring Refresh Interval, page 4-2

 

TFTP server to check for a configuration-file update or an

 

 

upgrade of the signaling image file.

 

 

 

 

6.

Configure the method with which the Cisco ATA will locate the

Configuring the Cisco ATA to Obtain its

 

TFTP server at boot up time.

Configuration File from the TFTP Server, page 3-18

 

 

 

7.

Power up the Cisco ATA.

 

 

 

 

8.

If you make configuration changes to the Cisco ATA or upgrade

Refreshing or Resetting the Cisco ATA, page 3-25

 

the signaling image on the TFTP server, you can refresh the

 

 

Cisco ATA so that these changes take effect immediately.

 

 

Otherwise, these changes will take effect when the specified

 

 

interval (CfgInterval parameter value) for the TFTP query

 

 

expires.

 

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

3-6

OL-4803-01

 

 

Page 39 Page 41
Page 40
Image 40
Cisco Systems ATA 186 manual Action Reference, Tftp server at boot up time
Page 39 Page 41

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.
Top Page Image Contents