Acronyms Explained

The comms world is full of abbreviations and confusing acronyms. We have listed below just some of the most common ones to try and help you understand your technology:

PSTN

Analogue telephone lines used at home or the office, every broadband has to have an analogue bearer line to deliver the service to the building. Other uses may be for Redcare/Alarm Monitoring, Faxes, Modems, Remote Monitoring/Access or Franking Machines.

ISDN2

Digital telephone lines for the small business, installed in multiples of two. Unlimited quantity in theory but not recommended for companies needing more than 6 lines. ISDN2 also gives you DDI capability.

ISDN30

Digital telephone lines for the larger company, or a company who know they are expanding and need scalability. Installed with a minimum of eight lines/channels with a total capacity of 30 lines/channels on one circuit (additional circuits can be added) and very easily and cost effectively expanded. Also has DDI capability.

DDI

This simply means direct dial inwards, on any digital line you can have sequential numbers in blocks of ten to allocate to departments, individuals or other companies within the same building. A very cost effective product giving businesses of all sizes huge functionality.

ADSL/Broadband

asymmetric digital subscriber line, this is simply known as broadband. Most providers now bill broadband dependent upon usage so you can tailor your package to suit your business.

SIP

Session initiation protocol, this is a protocol for delivering calls over a private broadband circuit usually dedicated to voice traffic.

VoIP

Voice over internet protocol, to the end user VoIP delivers the same service as SIP however ask the comms techy and you will get a different answer. There are vast differences but not to be discussed when we are trying to simplify acronyms!