FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q.     Software Provisioning: 5ESS Custom VS. National VS. DMS-100. What's the difference?

A.     The different types of software provisioning refer to the type of switching equipment your telephone company has at the other end of your ISDN line. Typically, the newer ISDN Telephone Sets (Tone Commander 6210/6220 and Lucent i Series) will automatically detect the provisioning. If your not sure what type your existing setup is using and are looking to add ISDN Telephone Sets, then look under you current phones to see the Make, Model, and Comcode numbers of the set. We can usually tell the provisioning of the majority of sets just by knowing this information.

Q.     What is the difference between Multi-Point (Passive Bus) and Point-to-Point?

A.     Simply put, Point-to-Point equates to one ISDN Telephone per one ISDN circuit. Where as Multi-Point (or "Passive Bus") allows more than one ISDN Telephone per Unit. Up to 8 ISDN Telephones can be connected sharing the same ISDN Circuit and NT1 Unit. The most common application for multipoint is when two ISDN Telephones share one NT1 and circuit, each receiving one dedicated B-Channel. This allows the end user to reduce their line cost by half. For more information, please see our ISDN Overview Section.

Q.     What is AMI?

A.     AMI (Alternate Mark Inversion) was introduced by AT&T in the Mid 1980's. It is still in use today and is reliable in its original state. AMI uses 6-wire connectors as apposed to the 8-wire connectors commonly seen in all other ISDN applications. Currently the AT&T 6500 Series Telephone Sets support this technology.

Q.     Which ISDN Telephone has the most Call Appearances?

A.     The top 3 ISDN Telephone Sets with the most number of call appearances are:

• Lucent i2022 with Add-on Module - 64
• Tone Commander 6220 with Add-on Module - 50
• Fujitsu 9924 with ABM - 48

Q.     Can we repair your defective telephone?

A.     We sure can. Just contact us with the manufacturer, model, and description of problem. When we get it in house we can diagnose the issue, repair it, and refurbish the telephone for a reasonable price. ** Pricing is dependant on manufacturer, model, and problem. Contact us for more details.

Q.     Do we sell individual telephone components? (ie. Handset, Cords, Desi's, etc...)

A.     TSE does offer individual pricing on such items. Most are in stock and ready to ship. Please contact us for pricing and availability.