Chapter 3 Configuring the Cisco ATA for H.323

Configuring the Cisco ATA Using a TFTP Server

Step 4 Use the example_uprofile.txt file again, this time as a template for creating a text file of values that are specific to one Cisco ATA. For example, you might configure the following parameters:

UserID:8530709

GkorProxy:192.168.1.1

Save this file of Cisco ATA-specific parameters as:

ata<macaddress>.txt

where macaddress is the non-dotted hexadecimal version of the MAC address of the Cisco ATA you are configuring. This non-dotted hexadecimal MAC address is labeled on the bottom of most Cisco ATAs next to the word “MAC.” The file name must be exactly 15 characters long. (However, if this filename is supplied by the DHCP server, the name can be as long as 31 characters and can be any name with printable ASCII characters.)

If necessary, you can obtain the non-dotted hexadecimal MAC address by using the atapname.exe command. For information on using the atapname.exe command, see the “Using atapname.exe Tool to Obtain MAC Address” section on page 3-10. That section includes an example of a dotted decimal MAC address and its corresponding non-dotted hexadecimal address.

Note The ata<macaddress>.txt file should contain only those parameters whose values are different from the file of common parameters. Parameter values in the ata<macaddress> configuration file will overwrite any manually configured values (values configured through the web or voice configuration menu) when the Cisco ATA powers up or refreshes.

Step 5 On the top line of the ata<macaddress>.txt file, add an include command to include the name of the common-parameters file, and save the file.

include:common.txt

UserID:8530709

GkorProxy:192.168.1.1

Step 6 Run the cfgfmt.exe tool, which is bundled with the Cisco ATA software, on the ata<macaddress>.txt text file to generate the binary configuration file. If you wish to encrypt the binary file for security reasons, see the “Using the EncryptKey Parameter and cfgfmt Tool” section on page 3-11.

The syntax of the cfgfmt program follows:

Syntax

cfgfmt [-eRC4Password] -tpTagFile input-text-file output-binary-file

–-eRC4Passwordis the optional RC 4key to encrypt the binary TFTP file provided by the cfgfmt program (up to eight alphanumeric characters).

–pTagFile is the command used to specify the ptag.dat file that is provided with the

Cisco ATA software version you are running. Search on the keyword ptag to find the complete name of the ptag file that is included with the Cisco ATA software for the signaling protocol you are using. Be sure this file resides in the same directory from which you are running the cfgfmt program. The ptag.dat file is used by cfgfmt.exe to format a text input representation of the parameter/value pairs to its output binary representation.input-text-fileis the input text file representation of the Cisco ATA configuration file.

–input-text-fileis the input text file representation of the Cisco ATA configuration file.

–output-binary-fileis the final output binary file that Cisco ATA uses as the TFTP configuration file.

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

 

OL-4008-01

3-9

 

 

 

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Cisco Systems ATA 188 manual Save this file of Cisco ATA-specific parameters as, Syntax
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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.
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