Chapter 1 Cisco Analog Telephone Adaptor Overview

Hardware Overview

Ethernet ports

The Cisco ATA 186 has one RJ-45 10BASE-T uplink Ethernet port to connect the Cisco ATA 186 to a 10/100BASE-T hub or another Ethernet device.

The Cisco ATA 188 has two Ethernet ports: an RJ-45 10/100BASE-T uplink port to connect the Cisco ATA 188 to a 10/100BASE-T hub or another Ethernet device and an RJ-45 10/100BASE-T data port to connect an Ethernet-capable device, such as a computer, to the network.

Note The Cisco ATA 188 performs auto-negotiation for duplexity and speed and is capable of 10/100 Mbps, full-duplex operation. The Cisco ATA 186 is fixed at 10 Mbps, half-duplex operation.

The Cisco ATA 188 RJ-45 LED shows network link and activity. The LED blinks twice when the Cisco ATA is first powered on, then turns off if there is no link or activity. The LED blinks to show network activity and is solid when there is a link.

The Cisco ATA 186 RJ-45 LED is solid when the Cisco ATA is powered on and blinks to show network activity.

Function button—The function button is located on the top panel of the unit (see Figure 1-7).

Figure 1-7 Function Button

Function

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The function button lights when you pick up the handset of a telephone attached to the Cisco ATA. The button blinks quickly when the Cisco ATA is upgrading its configuration.

Note If the function button blinks slowly, the Cisco ATA cannot find the DHCP server. Check your Ethernet connections and make sure the DHCP server is available.

Pressing the function button allows you to access to the voice configuration menu. For additional information about the voice configuration menu, see the “Voice Configuration Menu” section on page 3-15.

Caution Never press the function button during an upgrade process. Doing so may interfere with the process and may permanently disable the Cisco ATA.

Cisco ATA 186 and Cisco ATA 188 Analog Telephone Adaptor Administrator’s Guide (H.323)

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Cisco Systems ATA 188 manual Function Button

ATA 188 specifications

The Cisco Systems ATA 188 is a versatile Analog Telephone Adapter designed to facilitate the integration of traditional telephone systems with Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) networks. This device has been key in bridging the gap between legacy telephony and modern IP-based communication, allowing users to leverage their existing analog phones while enjoying the benefits of digital connectivity.

One of the main features of the ATA 188 is its ability to connect regular analog phones to a VoIP network, enabling users to make and receive calls over the internet. This significantly reduces calling costs, especially for long-distance and international calls. The ATA 188 supports two phone lines, allowing simultaneous voice calls. This dual-line capability makes it a suitable choice for small businesses or home offices that require multiple lines without the need for extensive infrastructure.

The device is equipped with various technologies that enhance its functionality. It supports the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) and H.323, making it compatible with a wide range of VoIP service providers. Additionally, the ATA 188 features Quality of Service (QoS) settings, which prioritize voice traffic over the internet, ensuring clear voice quality without interruptions or delays. This is essential for maintaining a professional communication experience, especially in business environments.

Another characteristic of the ATA 188 is its user-friendly configuration interface. It allows users to easily set up and manage their devices through a web-based portal. The configuration process is straightforward, with options to adjust settings such as codec selection, call features including call waiting, and call forwarding functionalities.

Security is also a priority for the ATA 188, as it provides robust protocols to protect call data. The device supports Secure Real-time Transport Protocol (SRTP) and Transport Layer Security (TLS) to encrypt voice traffic and manage signaling securely. This ensures that sensitive conversations remain confidential.

Overall, the Cisco Systems ATA 188 is a reliable and efficient solution for users looking to transition from traditional telephony to VoIP. Its dual-line capacity, compatibility with multiple VoIP standards, user-friendly configuration, and built-in security features make it a valuable asset for both personal and professional communication solutions. In an ever-evolving telecommunications landscape, the ATA 188 remains a relevant and practical choice for integrating legacy telephony with modern internet-based services.