http://www.att.com/press/0294/940224.nsc.html (World Wide Web Directory, 06/1995)
LISLE, Ill. -- AT&T Network Systems has introduced four new customer premises equipment products that make integrated ser- vices digital network (ISDN) technology more accessible and af- fordable for businesses and work-at-home users.
The products--two new voice/data terminals, a lower-cost network terminating unit and a digital adapter for home communications--expand the choices available to ISDN customers, add features and reduce equipment costs.
The new equipment was introduced and demonstrated at the National Centrex Users Group Conference (Feb. 14 through 16) in Orlando, Fla. 8520T ISDN VOICE-DATA TERMINAL
AT&T's 8520T voice/data terminal is an advanced speakerphone that enables the user to display a personal directory and other information on a 7-line display screen. The terminal includes 20 buttons for instant access to multiple phone lines or calling features.
In addition, ten "soft keys" may be programmed to help manage the personal directory, select among eight distinctive ringing patterns or activate other features. Dedicated feature buttons simplify such functions as call transfer and redial, and four control keys make it easy to scroll through the 144-entry personal directory.
When connected to a personal computer, the terminal handles data speeds of up to 64 Kbps and can accommodate simultaneous voice and data communications on a single ISDN telephone line. The 8520T also may be programmed to display information on the computer screen to identify incoming calls, alert the user to priority calls, and keep a log of incoming and outgoing calls.
The 8520T voice/data terminal will be available beginning in the second quarter of 1994 with an manufacturer's suggested retail price of $1010. NATIONAL ISDN-2 TERMINALS
Two new terminals are designed to take advantage of National ISDN-2 (NI-2) technology, which adds new capabilities to the ISDN network. As NI-2 switching capabilities become available in many areas, the new terminals will equip telephone companies and Cen- trex administrators to download pre-programmed features to each terminal instead of programming individual telephones on-site.
AT&T is offering its NI-2 terminals in 14-button and 35-button models, with such features as full speakerphone, display, menu "soft keys" for call management, and a message waiting light. They will be available in the second quarter of this year.
The NI-2 terminal will work in existing NI-1 ISDN installa- tions but will be limited to NI-1 capabilities. Likewise, NI-1 terminals will work in NI-2 installations but without the added NI-2 features.
The ExpressRoute Digital Adapter 2000 connects analog and digital equipment used in home offices, small businesses and col- lege dormitories to an ISDN line. The adapter's two data ports can connect personal computers or workstations at transmission speeds of up to 64 Kbps. Both data ports support D-channel packet services or a single port can transmit circuit-switched data. An analog port provides access to ISDN voice services and digital conversion for telephones, Group III fax machines, an- swering machines, and modems.
The adapter is designed to accommodate the telecommuter or home office user without modifying existing residence telephone service. Users benefit from its capability to handle high- quality voice and data communication simultaneously. The adapter's advanced voice features can accomodate multiple in- coming calls and support ISDN voice features such as conference calling, call forwarding, and Incoming Caller Identification
The adapter is packaged with a network terminating unit, which serves as the interface between the ISDN line and customer premises equipment. Manufacturer's suggested retail price is $850 for the package and $650 for the adapter alone. Both will be available in the second quarter of this year. National ISDN 1 compatibility is planned for third quarter.
AT&T has added an additional network terminating unit to its NT1 product line. Called the in-line NT1 L-230, the new unit is smaller and lower in cost than previous models. The shirt- pocket-size unit can be attached under a desk to save space.
The new terminating unit features LED status indicators and provides multi-point data connections. It will be available in the second quarter and will have a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $230.
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