Data Communications Capabilities - AT&T MERLIN LEGEND Release 3.1 System Manager's Manual

Data Communications Capabilities

Data Communications Capabilities
One of the important capabilities of the system is that it can carry both voice
and data communications simultaneously over the same lines. In addition,
system features used for voice communications, such as Automatic Route
Selection, calling restrictions, and speed dialing can also enhance the use of
data equipment.
NOTE:
For the most up-to-date information about data and video communications,
consult the Data/Video Reference .
Thus, the system allows you to use telephone lines for communicating not only
voices but data and video too. For example, a computer in New York can send
data files to a computer in San Diego. At your own company, your PC can
communicate with a gateway computer on a local area network (LAN) and gain
access to the network; or, you can call your office computer from your home
computer and send files back and forth between your home and office.
In addition, the system supports advanced network services that integrate voice
and data, such as group and personal videoconferencing.
A special type of extension, called a data station , is used for data
communications. It may include a telephone and always includes two types of
equipment:
Data Terminal Equipment (DTE). For example, a PC, data terminal,
printer, optical scanner, or video system.
Data Communications Equipment (DCE). For example, an internal or
external modem or an external ExpressRoute 1000 ISDN terminal
adapter.
The DTE connects to the system via the DCE, which has capabilities similar to a
telephone. The DCE places the data call, maintains its connection, and
terminates the data call.
Sometimes a telephone is also part of a data station. The telephone can be
either an MLX or an analog multiline telephone that operates independently of
the data communications equipment (DCE). You can attach a modem to either
an analog or MLX telephone adapter.
A video station is a type of data station that allows group or desktop
videoconferencing.
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