Content

SOFTSWITCH

October/2001 Trpico Sistemas e Telecomunicaes da Amaznia Ltda. All rights reserved

The information herein this material are subject to changes without previous notice.

Vectura SoftSwitch Introduction 2

OPT Architecture 3
Open Packet Telephony Model 3
Network Infra-structure 3
Call Control 4
Services 4
Convergente Network Structure 5
Main Features 6
Features 7
Tandem Switch (Class 4) Function 7
Local / Tandem Switch (Class 5 e 4) Function 7
Protocol Mediation 7
Billing in the AMA format 8
Remote Operation Interface 8
Services 9
Basic Services 9
Supplementary Services 10
Advanced Services 10
Hardware 11
Platform Architecture 11
Interconnection Modules 11
Other Platform Modules 11
Software 12
Software Features 12
Basic Softwares 12
High Scalability 12
Platform 13
Operation, Maintenance and Supervision 13
Friendly Communication 14
Distributed Control 14
Performance Analysis 14
Modular Architecture 14
Synchronization 14
Dimensioning 15
Redundancy 15
Summary of Technical Features 16
Terminal Types 16
Call Routing Features 16
Applications 16
Environmental Conditions 16
Primary Power Supply 16
Common Channel Signaling # 7 17
Billing 17
NGN Solutions 18
Vectura SoftSwitch 18
Vectura IP Access 18
Vectura Cable Access 18
Vectura Convergence Gateway 19
Vectura Edge Switch 19
Vectura ISP Easy Way 19
Vectura V-Services 19
Glossary of Services 20
Glossary of Abbreviations 26

Introduction

SOFTSWITCH

NGN and solutions for convergent networks

Network unification opens unlimited possibilities for
new intelligent services, with the advantage of also
being available to the heritage of networks. A single
infrastructure being shared and serving as a substrate
for the growth of a new, more flexible and faster
network, able to provide better service to customers.
At the same time, maintaining investments already put
up and optimizing existing facilities to develop new
sources of income.

Voice, data and video, in a unified infrastructure

Today, the headway gained in the development of
protocols and data networks enables the conveyance
of the assorted media with assured service quality.
This is where the Vectura line's proposal comes in: the
unification of networks and multiple services in the
same infrastructure and data network. With the
Vectura line, Trpico offers multi-access and multiservice elements as efficient solutions to meet the new
demands of voice, data and multimedia
communication, in keeping with the required speed
and new services.

Vectura SoftSwitch is the controller of these networks,

a strategic element able to guarantee the quality of
calls between any telecommunications networks,
regardless of the access technology adopted.

Vectura Line. Efficient transport of information

SOFTSWITCH

Vectura SoftSwtich is the Vectura line's equipment

which provides the unified control within next
generation networks NGN. The technology enabling
the efficient transport of multimedia information or, in
other words, voice, audio, video and data integrated
in a same network, with assured service quality.
Based on the concept of open-packet telephony
(OPT), the Vectura line contemplates openstandard, layer-structured architecture, providing
transport, call control and provision of services, by
distinct network elements.

Open Packet Telephony (OPT) Model

The OPT layered model provides multimedia

OPT ARCHITECTURE

services in a data network, integrated with today's

networks, where the open and standardized
interfaces assure the interoperability between the
layers by which it is comprised: call control,
transport and services. Designed within this concept,
the Vectura line equipment is applicable from the
transport layer, passing through the control layer,

OPEN/STANDARD
INTERFACE

and reaching the service layer.

Network infrastructure
CALL
CONTROL
LAYER

In the transport layer are the media gateway and all

the data-network infrastructure, such as the IP
switchers and routers, which interact with the callcontrol layer by means of standard protocols, the

OPEN/STANDARD
INTERFACE

MGCP (Media Gateway Control Protocol), the H.248

protocol (the ITU equivalent protocol), the H.323 (the
legacy protocol from VoIP networks) and SIP

DATA
INFRASTRUCTURE
LAYER

(Session Initiation Protocol).

For network infrastructures, Trpico provides
switching exchanges with integrated gateways the
Vectura Edge Switch and IP remote access cabinets
Vectura IP Access, providing the same-point
convergence of subscriber-access and transmission
technology

OPT Architecture

Vectura Line. Efficient transport of information

SOFTSWITCH

Complemeting the infrastructure solution, there is

the Vectura Cable Access, a facility for CATV
operators to provide telephony services; the Vectura
ISP Easy Way function, which provides a deviation
of Internet traffic and the Vectura Convergence
Gateway, which provides the voice conversion to
VoIP in class 4 applications.

Call control
The call control layer is responsible for establishing,
supervising and releasing calls that travel within the
IP network. It is the most strategic part of
convergent-network architecture, being the ideal
spot for the access of new services and
interoperation with the legacy of other networks. The
Vectura-line element that performs this layer's

Services

functions is the Vectura SoftSwitch, which is state-

The service layer controls services offered to

of-the-art in convergent-network call control.

users connected to the network, represented by

Vectura V-Services. They are servers where
intelligence for the provision of services, as well as
user databases reside.
Services can be provided according to the model
of intelligent network when interoperating with this
legacy, according to multimedia network model
H.323. Or, pursuant to the particular model of
open-packet telephony, where servers use the
standardized SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) and
API (Application Program Interface). Transport
layer elements, termed media servers, provide
the media processing, such as, for example, the
playback and recording of messages, text-tospeech conversion and voice recognition.
In the case of NGN, to add new services to the
network, all needed is to add server applications,
in a very simple manner. And for traditional
telephony networks, interconnected to an IP
network, the sharing of these services becomes
perfectly feasible and secure, controlled by the
Vectura SoftSwitch.

OPT Architecture

Convergent Network Structure

SOFTSWITCH

Convergent Network Structure

Multapplication Platform
SOFTSWITCH

The Vectura SoftSwitch is a multi-application platform for

with the IP data network, through which the voice in

voice-data network convergence , conceived in a

circuit mode is converted into Voice over IP (VoIP).

modular way, both in terms of both hardware and

software components, offering great versatility, high

The possible configurations of the Vectura SoftSwitch

reliability and guaranteed continuous

allow applications such as the Tandem Switch (class 4),

development.

Tandem/Local Switch (class 4 and 5), Signaling Transfer

Point STP, Service Access Point SAP and signaling

Incorporated into the IP data network, the Vectura

gateways. All of these options are totally compatible

SoftSwitch performs the call processing functions

with existing telecommunications network standard.

peculiar to a telephone switch, but does not incorporate

either the commutation functions, or the terminal

The Vectura SoftSwitch is implemented within a

modules. These functions are performed by

multiprocessor archictecture a distributed control and

gateways outside the equipment, which communicate

active load partitioning, smooth degradation under

with this equipment through the IP network via MGCP ,

failure conditions, with independent signaling and

H.248 , H.323 and SIP protocols, and interface with the

synchronization. There is active redundancy with load

public network (PSTN) through the SS7, R2 or PRI

partitioning in the signaling functions, synchronization

signaling. The gateways interact, on one side with PSTN

distribution call processing, among others.

telephone switches via trunks and, on the other side,

Main Features

Applications
SOFTSWITCH

The following applications are foreseen in

Local/Tandem Switch (Class 5 and 4) Function

Vectura SoftSwitch
The Vectura SoftSwitch may also be configured to
Vectura SoftSwitch Tandem (Class 4) for tandem call

operate as a call control element of trunk gateways and

control with origin/destination in end-points of the trunk

residential gateways. In the case of residential gateways,

gateway type.

they can be elements such as IADs (Integrated Access

Devices), Cable Modems with voice, Vectura IP Access

Vectura SoftSwitch Tandem/Local (Class 4/5) for

and Vectura Cable Access, where the users are

tandem call control with origin/destination in end-points

connected directly to this equipment, whose service is

of the trunk and residential gateway types.

provided by the Vectura SoftSwitch.

Tandem Switch (Class 4) Function

Protocol Mediation

The Vectura SoftSwitch may be configured to operate as

A convergent network requires gateways that operate

a control element of switched calls in an IP network with

with an H.323 protocol to connect to MGCP gateways,

a tandem function, where the Vectura SoftSwitch

and the Vectura SoftSwitch enables calls between the

controls trunk gateways through the MGCP, H.248,

user's equipment and service platforms based on both

H.323 or SIP protocols. The equipment capacity in this

protocols. Through the mediation between MGCP/SS7

application is up to 5 million BHCA.

and H.323, the equipment is able to connect, supervise

and conclude the call between both MGCP and H.323
gateways.

and
and

Applications

Applications
SOFTSWITCH

Billing in the AMA format

The Vectura SoftSwitch allows for automatic billing in
any of the mentioned applications, as well as the calls
resulted form the mediation of any protocols, with high
flexibility for call register service programming. It may be
programmed so that it can use two formats for charging
data: the standard 80-byte format or the AMA format.
The billing function is introduced through independent
modules, via usual plug-ins or FTP servers.
Remote Operation Interface
The Vectura SoftSwitch enables interface with networks
based on TCP/IP protocols, allowing remote operators to
access data and equipment files. The operation becomes
more economical and safer and allows a centralized
monitoring of all the installed equipment ( Vectura
SoftSwitch and Trpico RA) through a SNMP
management platform or terminals based in command
lines (CLI). A very useful resource
for the Telcos is the transfer of billing and multimeasurement files, as well as the use of a centralized
operation environment, allowing management operation
in a friendly way.

Features

Available Services controled by Vectura SoftSwitch

SOFTSWITCH

Basic Services

- Temporary transfer

The Vectura SoftSwitch controls calls and provides

- Call forwarding on no answer

services for the following terminal types:

- Call forwarding on busy

- Do not disturb

Analog subscriber (connected to residential

gateway, Vectura IP Access and Vectura Cable
Access):
- Virtual PABX (residential gateway, Vectura IP
Access and Vectura Cable Access)
- Local and/or trunk public telephone,using coin or

- Call waiting
- Line priority
- Detailed recording of originated calls
- Detailed recording for charging
- Attention to consult with or without transfer

card ( conected to Vectura IP Access or Vectura

- Three way calling

Cable Access)

- Reverse billing

- Community public telephone (connected to

Vectura IP Access or Vectura Cable Access)
- Semi-public telephone (connected to Vectura IP
Access or Vectura Cable Access)
- ISDN Basic Access (connected to Vectura IP
Access and Vectura Cable Access)

The Vectura SoftSwitch offers the following

additional services to the subscribers connected to
residential gateways, Vectura IP Access and Vectura
Cable Access:

- Abbreviated dialing
- Hot line
- Warm line
- Automatic wakeup service
- Originated call restriction
- Restriction control of originated calls
- Transfer to operator

- Malicious call
- Call with caller identification
- Recorded call

Services

Available Services controled by Vectura SoftSwitch

SOFTSWITCH

ISDN Supplementary Services

Advanced Services

The Vectura SoftSwitch also makes available the

The Vectura SoftSwitch, being the call control layer

following additional services to subscribers

element of the Open Packet Telephony model,

connected to ISDN lines via Vectura IP Access and

interoperates with the execution services platforms

Vectura Cable Access:

via standard interfaces (H.323, MGCP and SIP),

enabling the implementation of solutions in an open

-Terminal Sub-addressing
-Caller Identification Presentation

way. It allows the natural implementation of

improvements, interoperating with any access and
switching technologies. The results are unlimited

-Caller Identification Presentation Restriction

possibilities for advanced services, or V-Services

-Terminal Portability

that provide advantages to the end-user and,

-Multiple Subscriber Number

consequently, build loyalty.

-Call hold

Some of these advanced services are:

-Call waiting
-Search lines

-Prepaid

-User to user signaling

-Voice Mail:

-Direct Extension Dialing

-Unified Messaging:

-Connected Line Identification Presentation

-Call Screening:

-Connected Line Identification Restriction

-One Person/One Number

-Closed user group

-Click to Talk

-Automatic call forwarding

-Internet Second Line (Internet Call Waiting)

-Call forwarding on busy

-0800 Service

-Call forwarding on no answer

-0300/0900 Service

-Malicious call tracing

-Voice Portals
-Universal Access Number
-VPN Virtual Private Network

Services

10

Platform Architecture
SOFTSWITCH

I nterconnection modules
MZ - Signaling Module, which composes the local
network locator with interconnects the up to 1,024
processors that control the SoftSwitch.
MS - Synchronization Module, which generates clock
signals with high stability for all equipment as well as
the external synchronization with the SS7 network.
Platform Architecture
Other Platform Modules
The Vectura SoftSwitch architecture is based
on a high standardization, both in constructive
blocks and interfaces that interconnect them.

TM - Terminal Module, whose terminals will be

connected over it and level 2 functions from SS7
signaling

As a result, you get a reduced number of

MO - Operation and Maintenance Module, which

printed-circuit board types. As examples, there

incorporates mass memory units and interfaces with

are only one type of processor module for calls

input and output peripherals as well as the operation

processing, control and O&M. The structure

and maintenance management software of the

for signaling and synchronization is

switch.

standardized in a single interface type.

MA - Application module whose processor provides

high-performance SW functions, processing the calls
and protocols
MF - Interworking Module- based on processor and
business operating system that enables outsourcing
HW/SW introduction to Vectura SoftSwitch platform.
MAT - Module to access TCP/IP for the Vectura
SoftSwitch management and operation purpose.

Hardware

11

Software Features
SOFTSWITCH

The Vectura SoftSwitch software was written at a

high level language and modularly structured
according to the Implementation Block (BI) software
concept with the objective of taking the most
advantage of the reutilization and modularity,
allowing flexibility and quality assurance.

Hardware Independence
The BI software is designed to perform its function,
regardless the processor it will operate with. This
modularity makes the software development and
maintenance easy as well as it allows great flexibility
during the switch configuration. The Vectura
SoftSwitch processors are loaded with BI subsets
according to each functionality needs. There is great
flexibility for configuration in order to meet the
desired applications.

As the Telcos and the user needs change so fast, the

High Scalability

Vectura SoftSwitch software was structured and

developed in such a way to allow an easy
introduction of new requests, in an additional way,
affecting as little as possible the functions already in
operation. Besides , it shows high independence in
relation to the hardware, making compatibility with

The Vectura SoftSwitch processor network

is able to reach up to 1,024 processors,
internal to the network, allowing a big
scalable framework to be implemented.

developing versions of the product possible.

To meet the control requirements in
Basic Software
The internal Vectura SoftSwitch processor network is
integrated with a software layer, which provides an
"easy to use" execution environment for the
applications, meeting the reliability requirements,
real time control, competitive execution and the
distributed processing.

real time, the platform has its own

communication protocol, which assures
high availability and speed, allowing the
processors to behave as a single and big
system with high reliability.

Software

12

Vectura SoftSwitch Platform Features

SOFTSWITCH

Operation, Maintenance and Supervision

Based on this TCP/IP interface, we also have a

centralized network management TMN solution,

The separation of operation, maintenance and

supervision activities (OMS) and call processing
functions allows Vectura SoftSwitch to calculate
data, issue reports, and signal and store failures
without damaging call processing capacity. This
process is provided through TCP/IP protocol..
Consequently, Telcos will be able to use, as a
transport, its own business network or any IP
network to be implemented, and perform operational
activities via the Vectura SoftSwitch.

By using this interface, the Vectura SoftSwitch

makes access available:

- Man/Machine Interface (MMI);

- Report collection;
- File transfer with traffic/performance information,
CDRs, multiple measurement counters, failure
history, etc. by means of a FTP server;
- Switch database backup and restore.

managing not only Vectura SoftSwitch elements, but

also Vectura IP Access and Vectura Cable Access
equipment. It is based on the Unix environment and
uses an HP Openview / Cisco works and an Oracle
database. It includes features that comprise the
maintenance, performance failures, configuration,
security, and billing management areas.

Platform

13

Platform Features
SOFTSWITCH

Friendly Communication

Modular Architecture

Vectura SoftSwitch has a series of features that

With technology evolution, telecommunications

greatly facilitate service for the operation staff. The

networks are more and more complex, and the

physical structure of theVectura SoftSwitch makes

required time limit to develop new services is shorter

hardware feature localization and handling simple

and shorter. This requires feature optimization

for corrective and preventive maintenance. The

directed toward its development, implementation,

platform communication language, using command

exploration, and maintenance. The most efficient

line (CLI), is friendly and made up of mnemonic and

way to impose this optimization is, no doubt, the use

intuitive commands, minimizing manual use and

of solutions that allow the use of common parts in

assisting the operator's learning curve. Through its

dealing with different problems. attention. In Vectura

own operations interface, it is possible to use

SoftSwitch, this principle is applicable to all phases,

menus, which help in the choice and

from equipment concept design to network

parameterization of the ideal commands to be used.

maintenance.

Equipment operational integrity is assured by

mechanisms based on user identification, password,
authority and specialization degree, which protect
the system against non-authorized accesses.

Synchronization
The synchronization structure meets clock signal
generation and distributions needs, for both module
interconnection internal synchronization and the

Distributed Control

Vectura SoftSwitch attachment to the digital

The system functions are performed by elements

telecommunications network external

called Modules. Each Module has a processor, that

synchronization. It allows triply signal generation

controls functions associated to it. All processors are

and distribution, and the system to support any kind

connected to a redundant local network, allowing

of simple and/or double failures at generation and

them to exchange messages. Processor set and

distribution. This assures very high system

signaling paths create a distributed processor

availability if fail occurs at the synchronization

network. In addition to being distributed, this control

framework.

framework is completely distributed and redundant in

relation to its essential functions. This means that
there is no element whose individual failure causes
the loss of some essential function.

The signaling functions between processors and

internal synchronization distribution can be
configured in up to four plans, which work in load
sharing, and assure, due to the redundancy used,

Performance Analysis

high reliability. Such redundancy operates in a way

It is possible to obtain traffic measurement reports at

that any synchronization or signaling request can be

any time without previous marks, allowing the

met by any of the respective working plans. The

operator to continuously evaluate Vectura

number of signaling plans between processors is

SoftSwitch and network performance. This makes

configured in such a way to meet reliability and

carrier company engineering and planning work

traffic requests due to the use and capacity of each

easy, like optimizing equipment and enhancing

Vectura SoftSwitch.

performance indices. Measurements related to

routes and desired destinations are available, and
via commands, it is possible to schedule a series of
reports, which allow the operator to efficiently
monitor, in real time, all traffic under Vectura
SoftSwitch control.

Platform

14

Platform Features
SOFTSWITCH

Dimensioning
The redundant dimensioning of components assures high
reliability to the Vectura SoftSwitch, as it consists of
determining each type and number of functional modules,
mainly according to the number and type of controlled
subscribers, gateways, routes and junctions, and traffic
profile informed by the carrier companies.

The Vectura SoftSwitch is configured with its functional

modules with necessary capacity and redundancy to
support traffic and call amount overloads. Other aspects,
considered at dimensioning, are cost optimization, traffic
balancing, physical body placing, services supplied,
reduction in physical space, operational requirements, and
possible expansions.

The Vectura SoftSwitch modular structure allows gradual

and cost-effective configurations, avoiding initially
expensive investments in implementations and

Redundancy

expansions, as it meets low initial demands, increasing the

capacity up to 600,000 end-points (residential and trunk
gateways). The processing structure, distributed in up to
four signaling plans can compose a net of up to 1,024
internal processors.

Despite the fact of Vectura SoftSwtich hardware and

software architecture assure the necessary availability to
a carrier class equipment, with every single point covered
to fully eliminate all chances of services interruption,
Trpico offers the opportunity to implement a geographic
redundancy for softswitches. More than ever, provide the
network with features for "disaster recovery" is a
mandatory point. Vectura SoftSwitch can provide more
than that it offers the business continuity. A redundant
configuration with two Vectura SoftSwitches, strategically
allocated in different places or cities, divide actively the
call processing load, keeping the service on line, with no
interruptions. Such feature, plus the high reliability offered
by IP networks and respective alternative routes, can
provide the NGN with availability ranges never seen
before.

Platform

15

Summary of Technical Features

SOFTSWITCH

- Distributed and decentralized control

Terminal Types

- Load sharing without exchange of updating messages

- Residential Gateway (IP end-points), with

between processors
- Smooth degradation in the presence of failures
- Independent signaling and synchronization structure
- Active redundancy with load sharing in the signaling,

MGCP/ H.248/ SIP / H.323 protocol

- Enterprise Gateway, with MGCP/H.248 protocol
H.323 and SIP terminals Trunking Types
- Other terminal H.323 and SIP.

synchronization distribution and call processing

functions
- All synchronization modes provided in the masterslave method

Trunking Types
- Trunk Gateway (end-points IP) via MGCP/ H.248
supporting Ss7, R2 e PRI.

- Standardized internal interfaces

- High degree of modularity and large expansion
capacity
- High capacity to absorb technological evolutions
- Highly scalable for capacity of up to 5.000.000 BHCA
- Capacity to control up to 600.000 end-points
(residential + trunk gateways)
- 1.048 routes (input + output)
- Connection with data network via Ethernet interface
- MGCP/ H.248/ SIP/ H.323 protocol for gateway control
- Total compatibility with Common Channel Signaling
Network # 7 (SS7), supporting ISUP, INAP, MTP
Routing Enhancement
- Softswitch with function Class 4 and Class 5
- SS7/ISUP protocol transport in IP network (SIGTRAN)
- Integrated Signaling Transfer Point (STP) Benefits

Call Routing Features

- Five routing plans
- Origin marking call routing with route analysis in
respect to the trunk and residential gateway source
number (for trunk gateway and residential gateway)
- Automatic interception
- Call rerouting
- Rerouting of calls to message service
- Possibility of changing source or destination address
in a single call
- Programmable treatment and end of selection
- Network routing traffic management
- Supports existing numbering plans and enables
centralized change
- Fast routing

- Optimized flat-topology network for voice and data

traffic
- Low operating cost
- Improved transmission and switching use
- Transparent use of services
- Compatible and interoperable with existing networks
- Fast introduction of new services Applications
- Tandem Vectura SoftSwitch with automatic billing, to

Environmental Conditions
- Reference temperature rating: 25C 3C
- Critical marginal temperature rating: 7C to 40C
- Temperature gradient:10C/hour
- Relative humidity: 45% to 70%
- Humidity gradient: =10%/hour

control tandem calls with origin/destination in endpoints of trunk gateways type

- Tandem/Local Vectura SoftSwitch with automatic

Primary Power Supply

- Measurement range: -48 Vdc 10%

billing, to control tandem calls with source/destination

- Operating range: -43.2 Vdc to 57.6 Vdc Packaging

in end-points of trunk gateways, enterprise gateways

- Modular and flexible mechanical structure

and residential gateways type

Summary of Technical Features

16

Trpico S.A. Solutions for Convergent Networks

Vectura Convergence Gateway

The Vectura Convergence Gateway consists of an
interoperating unit with TDM voice/data transcoders
for packet voice/data, E1 interfaces for telephone-

Vectura ISP Easy Way

switch connections, and data interfaces for packet

network. The Vectura Convergence Gateway

The Vectura ISP Easy Way function allows Internet

implements the trunk-gateway function, which is

traffic to be offloaded to the data network at the local

controlled by the SoftSwitch. With Vectura

switch, preventing this traffic to be carried by the

convergence gateway, the carrier can interconnect

tandem network. Support is thus given to Multiple

its existing switches with the data network in a cost-

ISPs (Internet Service Providers). It implements the

effective and enhanced manner.

functions of authorization, authentication, data

accounting for measurements and billing (AAA
authorization, authentication and accounting

Vectura Edge Switch

functions). The Vectura ISP Easy Way function

supports connections with subscribers who own
analog modems or ISDN accesses, termed IP

The Vectura Edge Ewitch corresponds to the digital

address to subscriber, interface with ISP, AAA

switch, supporting all services and enhanced types

operates and routes user data over packet network.

of subscriber switches; it has an incorporated data-

This Internet offloading function can be incorporated

network interface, in which TDM voice/data

in existing Trpico-technology switches or the

conversion for IP packets is internally provided. The

Vectura Edge Switch.

Vectura Edge Switch will help the carrier to offer

interconnection with the existing switches via
conventional network (TDM) to service locations
where it is required, but while allowing smooth

Vectura V-Services

migration to the new-generation network, where

voice and data services are converted.

The Vectura SoftSwitch, via standard interfaces

(H323 and SIP), allows solutions to be openly
implemented, introducing natural innovations and
interoperating with any switch and access
technology. Unlimited possibilities are offered to
include enhanced services, or V-services, which add
differentials to final user perception and,
consequently, its loyalty the prepaid, voice portal,
voice-mail, unified messaging, call screening, one
person/one number, click to talk, Internet second
line, 0800 service, 0300/0900 service, universalacces number and VPN (Virtual Private Networks).

NGN Solutions

19

Available Services controled by Vectura SoftSwitch

SOFTSWITCH

Services Available through Vectura SoftSwtich

Abbreviated Call
It allows originating calls for given destinations through

Originating Call Block

It allows limiting originating calls for all or some
directions. These restrictions are scheduled and
cancelled by the Telco, at subscriber's request.

an abbreviated code, previously designed. To each

abbreviated code the subscriber associates a list of
numbers, including the national or international prefixes.
The subscriber programs from his own telephone set, as
well as checks and cancels the association made,
provided that the set is able to send multi-frequency

Controlled Blocking of Originating Calls

tones to the network.

It allows subscriber, in his own set and through a

password, to choose the restriction for originating calls
between two options previously established by the Telco
at his request.

Hot Line
It allows originating a pre-determined call by simply
taking the hook off. The call is booked in the softswitch
and performed by the Telco, under the subscriber's

Automatic Transfer to Operator

request. The completed traffic may be blocked or not.

It consists of intercepting calls routed to the subscriber

and forwarding them to an operator, in order to take
notes or get information. This forwarding is scheduled
and cancelled by the Telco, at subscriber's request.
When originating a call, the subscriber will receive a
distinguished dial tone, warning him that the calls are
being forwarded.

Temporary Transfer
It allows forwarding all the calls automatically to another
number, scheduled by the subscriber from his own set.
When originating a call, the subscriber will receive a
distinguished dial tone warning him that the calls are
being forwarded.

Warm line
It allows establishing a call, previously booked, in case
the subscriber does not start dialing within a time slice
after he received the dialing tone. The subscriber may
program this from his own set.

Automatic Wakeup Service

It allows receiving an automatic wakeup call at the time
desired, whose programming is made from the
subscriber's set, and it is valid for a 24-hour period. If
the subscriber's line is busy at the moment of the
wakeup call, or if he does not answer it, the call is
repeated for three times after a fixed interval. After that
the call attempt details are automatically registered.

Automatic call forwarding on no answer

It allows forwarding all the calls automatically to another
number, if there is no scheduled answering by the
subscriber from his own set. When originating a call, the
subscriber will receive a dial tone warning him that the
calls routed to him are being forwarded, if there is no
reply.

Do not disturb
It consists of intercepting the calls routed to subscriber
and rerouting them to an announcement machine.
Programming and canceling are made by the subscriber
from his own telephone set. When originating a call, the
subscriber will receive a distinguished dial tone, warning
him that the calls are being forwarded.

Automatic call forwarding on busy

It allows forwarding all the calls automatically to another
number, scheduled by the subscriber from his own set, if
the subscriber's terminal is busy. When originating a call,
the subscriber will receive a dial tone, warning him that
the calls are being forwarded, if his terminal is busy.

Call Waiting
It consists of telling a subscriber that there is an attempt
to establish a new connection. This indication is made
by a tone, perceptible only by the subscriber called, who

Glossary of Services

20

Available Services controled by Vectura SoftSwitch

SOFTSWITCH

may answer the second call without releasing the first

subscriber must have a terminal with R key (dial tone

one. The subscriber must have a multi-frequency

rollback signal) or flash key. The scheduling is made by

telephone set with R key (dial tone rollback signal) or a

the Telco.

flash key.
Reverse billing
Line Priority

It consists of assigning local call tariffing to the called

It allows Vectura SoftSwitch, at abnormal traffic

subscriber. This service is scheduled by the Telco, at

situations, to regularly route the calls originated by

subscriber's request.

primary subscribers, while the calls attempts from the

other ones are blocked during the abnormal traffic
situation. This service is booked by the Telco.

Malicious call tracer

It allowsprogramming the subscriber's terminal, at
request, to hold completed call, register call data or to

Originated Calls Detailed Recording

hold and log call.

It consists of recording data from all the calls originated

by the subscriber during a given period. The Telco
makes programming and canceling, at subscriber
request.

Caller identification
It allows the subscriber, when called, to receive the
caller directory number at an additional display on the
telephone set. This service is scheduled by Telco, at

Recording of calls for Accounting

subscriber's request.

It consists of selecting and storing data on calls

originated by the subscriber indicated for this kind of
service. When the subscriber is responsible for the call
accounting, it is possible to store information on call
interlocutor, duration, type, and the call start time.

Registered Call
It consists of keeping registered the last number called
by the subscriber , so that he may call this number again
by pressing a number sequence, using a multi-frequency
signaling set.

Call Consultation/Transfer
During a call, it allows the user to setup a new call,
holding the original one. The subscriber may switch
between both calls, go to a new call or forward it,
releasing the former one. The call releasing and/or
forwarding only occurs when the called subscriber (B)
performs querying/forwarding. The subscriber must have
a terminal with R key (dial tone rollback signal) or a
flash. The scheduling is made by the Telco.

Three-way Calling
It allows establishing a new call during a call, holding the
original one. The subscriber may switch between both
calls, go to new one or forward it, releasing the former
one. The call releasing and/or forwarding only occurs
when the called subscriber (B) performs
forwarding/forwarding. It is possible to have a
conversation among the three implicated parts. The

Glossary of Services

21

Services for ISDN ports

SOFTSWITCH

Terminal Portability

SoftSwitch-controlled ISDN access even if all the

By using this service, the user can change the terminal

information forwarding channels are busy. It is the

during an active call or move the terminal to another

subscriber's terminal function to warn the user about the

subscriber's installation connector.

presence of a new call . The user can then release a

It is available for all the subscribers that have the basic

Vectura SoftSwitch-controlled ISDN accesses.

Virtual PABX
Vectura SoftSwitch enables the Telcos to offer services
to subscribers connected to residential gateways and all
the PABX services within the Vectura IP Access, without

call to answer this new one, or hold on to an existing

call.

User-to-User Signaling
It allows a128-octet limited size information to be
seamlessly conveyed, during a call, among the ISDN
users subscribed to Direct Extension Dialing (DDR).

the need for outdoor equipment and without additional

installations. This facility allows the subscriber to use all

Terminal Sub-addressing

the conveniences offered by the presence and

This service allows a completed call to be routed to a

distribution ofextensions through a PABX system,

specific terminal within the subscriber's facility through

without having to buy the equipment.

the sub-addressing included at the call request by the

user who originated it. The Vectura SoftSwitch

Multiple Subscriber Number

This service allows you to associate more than one
directory number with the Vectura SoftSwitch controlled
access. Accesses using this service can have any

seamlessly transports this information between ISDN

accesses that are connected to gateways, or between
an ISDN access and an output connection with ISUP
signaling.

multiple number quantities associated with themselves,

but there is a default directory number registered at the

Caller Identification Presentation

Vectura SoftSwitch for each access. For completed call,

It is possible to identify a completed call originator at an

the destination number is indicated when offering the

ISDN access using this service. When a call is

call to the destination user who has this service

originated at an ISDN access that has a multiple number

activated. For originating calls, the user must send the

service, the directory number indicated to the destination

source number (Multiple Number) to be used when

subscriber can be a number sent by the call source

setting up the call.

terminal.

Call Hold

Caller identification presentation restriction

It allows user to hold a call, for instance, in order to

This service allows the user that originates a call to hide

generate a new one or answer an offered waiting

his identification presentation (list number) to the

call.The maximum number of held calls can either be

destination user. The user can choose for permanent

limited by the configuration or not. It will be dynamically

mode restriction, where all calls originated by this

dependant on the Vectura SoftSwitch features available,

access terminal will have a presentation restriction

if it is not previously limited. While using this service, the

indication on the the caller identification, or for

user can change the terminal during an active call or

temporary mode restriction, where the user indicates at

move the terminal to another subscriber's installation

each call if he wishes to use restriction or not.

connector. It is available for all the subscribers that have

the basic Vectura SoftSwitch-controlled ISDN accesses.
Call Waiting
It allows a completed call to be offered to a Vectura

Glossary of Services

22

Services for ISDN ports

SOFTSWITCH

It allows The Vectura SoftSwitch to send the total or

Automatic Call Forwarding

partial Subscriber's destination ISDN number to the

It allows all calls routed to an ISDN access to be

destination user so that it can identify a branch within

rerouted to another user scheduled directory number.

the subscriber's facility. Calls for users with this kind of

When originating a call, the subscriber will receive a

service can be routed by the Vectura SoftSwitch when

warning indicating that the transfer service is activated.

access is identified through the first digits of the

subscriber's number. This service is available under
subscription when hundred or thousand of numeric
series are associated with the user

Call Forwarding on Busy

It allows all calls routed to an ISDN access and met
access busy to be rerouted to another user's scheduled

Connected Line Identification Presentation

The use of this service allows the user who originated

directory number. When originating a call, a subscriber

will receive a warning indicating the transfer service is
activated.

the call to identify the destination subscriber's number

that answered the call. The connected line number can
be indicated by the user terminal that answered the call,

Call Forwarding on no Answer

or the default access number registered at the Vectura

It allows all calls to an ISDN access that are not

SoftSwitch.

answered within a specific time period to be rerouted to

another user's scheduled directory number. When

Connected Line Identification Restriction

originating a call, the subscriber will receive a warning

indicating the transfer service is activated.

This service allows user that receives a call to hide his

identification presentation (directory number) to the
source user. User can choose for permanent mode

Malicious Call Tracing

restriction, where all calls routed to a particular directory

This service allows an ISDN user to receive a call, and

number of this access will have a presentation restriction

ask for data related to this call to be registered at the

indication on the connected line identification, or for

Vectura SoftSwitch. For a subscriber with this service

temporary mode restriction, where user indicates at

activated, the request can be done during the call

each call if he wishes to have restriction or not.

conversation phase or immediately after the call

originator user hangs it up, within a limited period of

Closed User Group

It allows closed user groups to performed, being
identified by a numeric code. Special characteristics can
be assigned to the accesses participating the group,
such aspermission for calls only among the same group
accesses, permission for an access to receive
subscriber calls external to the group, permission for an
access to originate calls for subscribers outside the
group. ISDN access subscribers can participate in more
than one closed user group and user can indicate at a
call origination the closed group index to which he
belongs and which one wishes to use at this call.

time.

Glossary of Services

23

Advanced Services - Vectura V- Services

SOFTSWITCH

Prepaid

Call Screening

Provides telephone service with pre-paid billing using a

Allows filters (restrictions) to be defined by the user to accept

system of acquired credits. These credits can be associated

originating calls or complete a call.

with: a wired and land terminal or WLL for subscribers who

want to control the telephone bill budget. It can also help the
carrier to administer defaults; a password allowing the
flexibility to complete a call from any terminal, even from
another Telco. The call price will be charged from the credit
associated with that password. This engenders customer
loyalty by allowing for the renewal of credits via credit card or
billed to a home telephone account. It replaces the telephone
card with many advantages, enabling sponsors to pay for
call costs once the users agree to hear a marketing
message.

One Person/One Number

Allows a subscriber to be accessed through a singlenumber.
This number centralizes his residence, work, and cellular
number. The call is automatically rerouted to a predefined
number according to a previous schedule made by the user
via WEB. This programming can consider day of the week,
time, and day of the month. It is a way to implement number
portability.
Click to Talk
Allows a telephone call to be generated during an Internet

Voice Mail
Allows voice messages to be stored and queried. This

session. This potentially improves e-commerce and teleeducation.

service generates greater traffic generato. as well as

increases the amount of completed calls and the efficiency of

Internet Second Line (Internet Call Waiting)

voice mail. The user can customize his greeting, change his

Allows a telephone call to be received during an Internet

password, reroute a message to another mailbox, and obtain

session. The call is announced on the browser and the

the date, time and phone number of the person who left the

subscriber can choose to answer it via the Internet, a land

message.

telephone (in this case, disconnecting the Internet session),

direct it to voice mail, or ignore it.

Unified Messaging
Message service distinguished by a single mailbox with
multimedia storage features (text, voice, and fax), which can
be accessed via different means (telephone, fax, e-mail,
browser, and SMS cellular telephone), for both message
deposit and retrieval.

Glossary of Services

24

Advanced Services - Vectura V- Services

SOFTSWITCH

0800 Service
Allows service customers to assume call costs that are
routed to their attention centers. Calls can be addressed
considering the day of the week, time and certain dates.
Alternate routings can also be considered if there is no
reply or if the line is busy. Using this service, it is possible
to establish an efficient communication channel between a
company and its customers to clarify information, register
claims and suggestions, and provide sales support.

0300/0900 Service
These services are based on voice and are charged
according to the information supplied: Services based on
messages: news, dollar rates, soccer game scores, etc.
Services involving attendants: horoscope, queries, tales,
etc.

Services of conference calls.

Voice Portals: browsing through voice menus to access
information retrieval.

Universal Access Number

Allows the user to route a call to the most convenient
destination depending on the call source and other
conditions (day of the week, time, etc). It is greatly used by
subscribers who have geographically spread attention
centers.

VPN
Allows the formation of private networks using public
telecommunications resources in a shared way, creating selfnumbering plans, supplementary services, and expenses
with external calls.

Glossary of Services

25

Glossary of Abbreviations
SOFTSWITCH

ALL

Access Leased Line Access

ADSL

Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Loop

AMA

Automatic Message Accounting

API

Application Program Interface

ATM

Asynchronous Transfer Mode

BHCA

Busy Hour Call Attempts

CATV

Cable Access TV

CDR

Call Detail Recording

CMTS

Cable Modem Termination System

DHCP

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol

DSLAM

DSL Access Multiplex

FTAM

File Transfer, Access and Management

FTP

File Transfer Protocol

GW

Gateway

H.248

ITU Standard for media gateway control

H.323

Standard for multimedia communication systems based on packet networks

HFC

Hybrid Fiber Coax

HTTP

Hyper Text Transfer Protocol

ICW

Internet Call Waiting

INAP

Intelligent Network Application Protocol

IP

Internet Protocol

IP SCP

IP Service Control Point

ISDN

Integrated Services Digital Network

ISP

Internet Service Provider

ISUP

ISDN User Part

Glossary of Abbreviations

26

Glossary of Abbreviations
SOFTSWITCH

ITU

International Telecommunications Union

ITU-T

ITU Telecommunications Standardization Sector

LNP

Local Number Portability

MGCP

Media Gateway Control Protocol

MMI

Man/Machine Interface

MTP

Message Transfer Part

OMS

Operation, Maintenance and Supervision

OPT

Open Packet Telephony

OSI

Open Systems Interconnect

POTS

Plain Old Telephony System

PSTN

Public Switched Telephony Network

RAS

Remote Access Server

RI

Remote Interface

RU

Remote Unit

SAP

Service Access Point

SDH

Synchronous Digital Hierarchy

Sigtran

Signaling Transport

SIP

Session Initiation Protocol

SMS

Short Message System

SNMP

Simple Network Management Protocol

SS7

Signaling System number 7

STP

Signaling Transfer Point

TCP/IP

Transmission Control Protocol over Internet Protocol

TDM

Time Division Multiplex

TGW

Trunk gateway

TMN

Telecommunications Management Network

TUP

Telephony User Part

VolP

Voice over IP

VPN

Virtual Private Networks

WLL

Wireless Local Loop

Glossary of Abbreviations

27

Trpico Sistemas e Telecomunicaes S.A. was

founded in 1999 from a joint venture between
Promon - a Brazilian group present in
telecommunications, engineering, e-commerce
and managing - and CPqD, the biggest Latin
American technological research center.
Trpico digital switching technology is
responsible for 8.5 millions of installed digital
terminals throughout Brazil, and recently in Latin
Amercia and in the United States. The offices
and the development laboratory are located in
Campinas - State of Sao Paulo, and the industrial
plant is in Manaus - Amazonia State.