AT&T MERLIN LEGEND System Reference Manual page 630

Glossary
bit rate
The speed at which bits are transmitted, usually expressed in bits per second. Also called data rate. See also baud and bits
per second.
bits per second (bps)
The number of binary units of information that are transmitted or received per second. See also baud and bit rate.
blocking
A condition in which end-to-end connections cannot be made on calls because of a full load on all possible services and
facilities.
broadband
A transmission path having a bandwidth greater than a voice-grade channel.
bus
A multiconductor electrical path used to transfer information over a common connection from any of several sources to any of
several destinations.
button
A key on the face of a telephone or console that is used to access a line, activate a feature, or enter a code on a
communications system.
byte
A sequence of bits (usually eight) processed together. "Octet" is used instead of "byte" in CCITT (International Telegraph and
Telephone Consultative Committee) documentation.
C
Call Accounting System (CAS)
A vendor-supplied DOS or UNIX-based application that monitors and manages telecommunications costs.
Call Accounting Terminal (CAS)
A vendor-supplied stand-alone unit with a built-in microprocessor and data buffer that provides simple call accounting at a
low cost.
Callback queue
The queue used to hold Callback callers who have requested a busy pool or extension.
calling group
A team of agents who answer the same types of calls.
Call Management System (CMS)
A DOS-based application that simulates the actions of a system operator by answering and distributing calls. CMS also
produces management reports for call analysis.
campus cable
Cable that runs between buildings connected to the same communications system.
central office (CO)
The location of telephone switching equipment that provides local telephone service and access to toll facilities for long-
distance calling.
central processor
The part of a computer that interprets and executes instructions. Also called central processing unit.
Centrex
A set of communications system features a user can subscribe to on telephone lines from the local telephone company.
Glossary GL-3