ISDN30/30e applications and usage tips
BT ISDN
Excellent for voice calls
You can connect high-quality digital phones to an ISDN circuit.
There is a wide range of PBX phone systems and switches compatible with ISDN. As well as switchboard functionality, many PBXs offer functions such as call transfer, call pick-up, call hold, etc. A modern ISDN-compatible PBX is easy to use. Most are controlled by computer software.
Please Note: these systems usually require expert installation and configuration. You should check that your supplier offers installation support.
ISDN30e is also compatible with Computer Telephony Integration, (CTI) allows you to see a caller's details before you answer the phone. This could, for example, enable you staff to check a caller's credit and buying history before engaging in conversation.
Data
Fast data transfer
Using Fast File Transfer you can send files directly over the ISDN network to another computer with ISDN access and compatible file-transfer software. This is particularly useful for large documents, graphics or video files. It is often quicker and cheaper than using a courier.
Remote access
Using ISDN30/30e, you can connect remote users to your central site server. This enables staff to work from satellite offices or their homes. The central site requires ISDN connectivity and ISDN-compatible equipment (typically a router) that allows remote users to dial-in. Remote users need an ISDN line with a PCI card or Terminal Adapter. When setting this up you should install a security system such as a firewall to prevent unauthorised access to your company's network.
Linking LANs
You can use ISDN30/30e to link two or more Local Area Networks (LANs) to create a Wide Area Network (WAN). This allows employees working in different locations to access the same information. The link requires a router at each end, to connect the LAN hubs to the ISDN line.
Usage tips
If you find a large number of short calls on your ISDN bill, your equipment may not be configured properly. Some computers, LAN applications and routers are set to poll one another at regular intervals. This raises a minimum call charge each time. You can reduce the cost by setting your routers to poll each other less frequently and reconfiguring email applications to send/receive in batches. Alternatively, if you don't wish to change your set-up you may be able to reduce the call cost through the Short Call Discount plan.
Video conferencing
Video-Conferencing equipment used with ISDN lines can give high-quality sound and pictures. Video-conferencing units may aggregate two or more 64k ISDN lines to provide the bandwidth needed for good image quality. Both parties in a video-conferencing session need ISDN access and compatible equipment. Some packages allow you to connect several users in a video-conference meeting. This saves time and travel expenses.
Internet
Fast access
ISDN offers fast Internet access using an ISDN PCI card. If moving from an analogue telephone connection to ISDN, you should check that your current Internet Service Provider (ISP) supports ISDN access. You may be asked to dial in on a different number.
Channel-bonding
Combining two ISDN channels enables you to access the Internet at more than twice the speed of a standard analogue modem. Your computer's software controls this procedure, which is known as channel bonding. If you wish to use channel bonding you should check with your supplier that your software supports this function, and also that your ISP supports 128k Internet access. Note: when connecting at 128k you are making two simultaneous calls over your ISDN line. This incurs two simultaneous call charges.
Connecting Multiple PCs
You can connect multiple PCs to the Internet over ISDN through a Local Area Network. You can do this in a small office using a simple LAN hub with a router linking it to your ISDN line. You can also route Internet access through a particular PC, using it to serve other computers on the LAN. However, depending on the extent of your Internet use, this method may not be satisfactory. It uses resources on the server PC, degrading its performance for other work.
The speed of Internet access via a LAN will depend on the amount of Internet activity sharing the available bandwidth. Many routers offer Intelligent Bandwidth On Demand (IBOD). This is designed to optimise your Internet connection while avoiding unnecessary call charges. When there is a large amount of Internet activity on the network, it automatically switches-in an additional ISDN channel, providing more bandwidth. To achieve this, the router has multiple network ports. These enable you to connect additional ISDN lines, providing extra bandwidth for your LAN.
Usage tips
To avoid unnecessary call charges, you should check that dial-up software on your system does not make multiple short calls. Many applications have set-up options that make such calls automatically. For example, email software may be set up for immediate dispatch, or to check the server frequently for incoming emails. Each of these connections will raise a minimum call charge. You can reduce call charges by grouping send/receive operations in batches. Note also that switching off a computer without closing an ISDN connection may leave the connection open. This could result in an extended call charge. You should ensure that staff using ISDN for Internet access know how.
