Overview | Telephone lines | Non-Geographic Numbers | Least Cost Routing | FAQs
Network Services - FAQs
Q: Isn’t ISDN outdated now we have broad bandlines (ADSL)?
A: Although BT has stated that they intend to upgrade their network to a fully converged broadband network within 10 years, digital ISDN lines are currently the most efficient way of connecting your Siemens system to the public network PSTN. As the Siemens Hipath 3000 system already supports converged networks, there will be a smooth transition when broadband becomes the principal connection method.
For further information please see our section Convergence VOIP.
Q: Can I retain my existing analogue numbers if I upgrade to ISDN?
A: You can change up to 4 analogue telephone numbers to ISDN providing that they are located on the same BT Telephone Exchange Unit. Please note that there can be several units in one BT building so it is necessary for BT to determine the situation by survey. Brightel Datanet can arrange this on your behalf.
Q: Can I retain my existing numbers if I upgrade from ISDN2E to ISDN30E?
A: Normally yes, within the constraints of the exchange unit rule above.
Q: I am moving premises can I retain my phone numbers?
A: If you have BT lines you can retain your numbers providing you move within the BT exchange area. Sometimes a move across the road can mean a change if you are crossing an exchange boundary. Cable companies have similar rules but usually have a much larger geographic area. Diversion services are possible but expensive. If you need more freedom of movement we would suggest the use of Non-geographic Numbers.
Q: Can I retain my phone numbers if I move from BT to a cable company?
A: Yes but it can be fraught with bureaucratic hurdles due to the reluctance of carriers to release numbers.
Q: Can I retain my phone numbers if I move from a cable company to BT?
A: Yes but it can be fraught with bureaucratic hurdles due to the reluctance of carriers to release numbers.
Q: What does a network provider mean when they talk about my main number?
A: The main number is the number, which appears at the top of your telephone bill and is the reference number for reporting faults and general dealings with the carrier. This terminology is used when an organisation has ISDN with several DDI numbers or number ranges. The main number is usually the first number of a DDI range i.e. 210200 where the range is 210200-210299 or the number upgraded to ISDN when the organisation had one number on analogue lines.
Q: If I have LCR can I retain my telephone numbers?
A: Yes you can retain your BT numbers.
Q: Can I have LCR on the lines from my cable company?
A: Cable companies do not support LCR. If you have Cable Company lines all calls are routed and billed by that Cable Company.
Q: Do I still need a separate analogue line for my fax, burglar alarm & modem if I upgrade to ISDN?
A: Fax and modem numbers can become DDI’s on your Siemens telephone system. They are connected as analogue extensions on your Siemens telephone system. The advantage of this is fewer lines and consequently fewer line rentals. We suggest you retain burglar alarms on separate analogue lines, as well as any analogue lines providing ADSL or SDSL service.
Q: How do I know how many lines I need for my new Siemens Hipath system?
A: The number of lines connected to your telephone system determines the number of simultaneous calls (Incoming and outgoing) that can be set up to the public network PSTN. This includes FAX & modem calls if such devices are connected to the system. See our section on Call Logging for more information on precise determination of line numbers.
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