Interface Standards for PBX Systems

In order to extend a PBX system or to integrate it with other devices, such as a public network, requires the use of an interface standard. An interface standard is a physical method of integrating a phone system with another system for the purpose of expansion, data exchange and data collection.

The following standards are used to connect an extension to a phone system:

• DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications) – is a wireless technology that was adopted for use on cordless phones.

• POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service) – has been around since the advent of the public telephone system. A basic connection service for residential and commercial users.

To interface two or more PBX phone systems requires the following standards:

• DPNSS (Digital Private Network Signaling System) – a network protocol defined by the British Telecom.

• PRI (Primary Rate Interface) – a standard based on the T-Carrier line that provides telecommunication services for businesses.

• QSIG – a protocol, developed by Ecma International, designed for corporate or enterprise integrated voice and services networks.

PBX and trunk lines can be connected by using:

• ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) – enables an ordinary phone the ability to have digital transmissions.

• RBS (Robbed-Bit Signaling) – developed by AT & T in transitioning from analog to digital trunks.

Standards for enabling data collection over a PBX system:

• File – the most simple standard wherein a PBX generate a file containing the data collected.

• Network Port – utilizes a port, application or buffer in order for the PBX to send an information.

• Serial Interface – enables data to be sent one bit a time over a communication channel.