Section 3 - Sprint
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Section 3
Services and Features
3.0 Overview of FTS2001 Services
FTS2001 includes a full range of voice, data and video transmission services that are brought together in a single integrated digital network. A detailed discussion of the FTS2001 services and features follows.
|FTS2000 |FTS2001 |
|That was then . . . |This is now . . . |
|SVS |Switched Voice Service |CSS |Circuit Switched Service |
| | Toll Free | | SVS Outbound (domestic & int’l) |
| | VPN Outbound | | Toll Free (domestic & int’l) |
| | Calling Card | | Interactive 800 Features |
| | Interactive 800 Features | | Switched Data (domestic & int’l) |
| | Audio Conferencing | | Calling Card (domestic & int’l) |
|CSDS |Switched Data Service | | Audio Conferencing |
| | | | 900 Service (domestic) |
| | | | |
|PSS |Packet Switched Service |SDS |Switched Data Service |
| | PSS – x.25 | | PSS x.25 (domestic & int’l) |
| | EPSS – Frame Relay | | FRS Frame Relay (domestic & int’l) |
| | HSPSS – ATM | | IPS (domestic & int’l) |
| | x.400 – Sprintmail | | ATMS (domestic) |
| | Telex | | x.400 not offered |
| | EDI | | Telex not offered |
| | Sprint Mail | | EDI not offered |
| | | | Sprint Mail not offered |
| | | | |
|DTS | Dedicated Transmission Service |DTS |Dedicated Transmission Service. (dom. & int’l) |
|VTS |Video Transmission Service |VAS |Value Added Service |
| |Wideband | | Video Transmission Service |
| |Compressed | | Managed Network Service |
| |Enhanced Digital Compressed | | |
Table 3.1 – FTS2000 vs. FTS2001 Product Summary
|FTS20001 Services |Sprint FTS2001 Service Offering |
|Circuit Switched Service (CSS) |VPN Premier, GVPN (Domestic and Non-Domestic) |
| |Dedicated Access |
| |Switched Access |
| |PRI (Sprint) |
| |FONCARDSM |
| |User to Network Interface (UNI) access speeds from Analog to T-3/E-3 channelized. Local Access to Network|
| |Interface (LANI) access speeds from Analog to T-3/E-3 channelized. |
|Circuit Switched Data Service |VPN Premier, GVPN (Domestic and Non-Domestic*) |
|(CSDS) |Dedicated Access |
| |Switched Access |
| |PRI (Sprint) |
| |UNI access speeds from DSO to T-1/PRI. LANI access speeds from DSO to T-3 channelized. PRIs will support|
| |2xDSO, 6xDSO, and 12xDSO. T-1s will support dialable speeds to 1.536 Mb/s. |
| |* No non-domestic interface specified |
|Dedicated Transmission Service |Sprint IPL. UNI access speeds from Analog to T-3 channelized/non-channelized. LANI access speeds from |
|(DTS) |Analog to T-3. Multipoint branch-off, analog line conditioning, transport diversity, and transport |
| |avoidance supported. |
|Packet Switched Service (PSS) |SprintNet (Domestic and Non-Domestic). |
| |Dedicated Access |
| |Dial-up Access |
| |UNI access speeds from sub-DSO to PRI. LANI access speeds from analog to T-3 channelized. Dial-up to |
| |support 28.8 Kb/s to 56/64 Kb/s. |
|Video Transmission Service |Sprint Video Service Bureau (VSB). UNIs and LANIs do not apply. Transport provided by CSDS or DTS. |
|(VTS) |Various interfaces are mandated. Connection rates vary from DSO to T-1/E-1. Features include: |
| |Reservation System |
| |Coding Conversion |
| |Format Conversion |
| |Security |
| |Rate Adaptation |
|Internet Protocol Service (IPS)|Sprint IP, Global IP, Sprint Security – Domestic and Non-Domestic. |
| |Dedicated Access |
| |Dial-up Access |
| |UNI speeds from DSO to OC-12. Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Token Ring, and FDDI LAN interfaces supported. |
| |LANI speeds from DSO to OC-3. Dial access 28.8 to 56/64/ 128 Kb/s. Basic firewall services supported. |
|Asynchronous Transfer Mode |Sprint ATMS – Domestic only, dedicated access. UNI speeds from T-1 to OC-3. LANI speeds from T-1 to T-3.|
|Service (ATMS) |CBR, VBR-nrt, and UBR PVCs supported. Interworking (gateway) services to IPS and FRS supported |
|Frame Relay Service (FRS) |Sprint Frame Relay, Global Frame Relay – Domestic and Non-Domestic. |
| |Dial-up Access |
| |Dedicated Access |
| |UNI speeds from sub-DSO to DS3. LANI speeds from DSO to T-3 channelized. Dial-up through IP Dial 28.8 to|
| |56/64 Kb/s. LAN and SNA PVCs supported. |
| |Interworking (gateway) services to IPS and ATM supported. |
|Managed Network Services (MNS) |Sprint Managed Network Service is a set of services that when provided in conjunction with FTS2001 |
| |transport, will provide the Government the ability to “outsource” their network management. |
| |MNS is comprised of four separate products; |
| |MNS for Routers |
| |MNS for ATM |
| |Managed Hubs |
| |Managed Implementation |
|Toll Free Service (TFS) |Sprint Toll Free – Domestic and Non-Domestic |
| |Dedicated access |
| |Switched access |
| |(Feature Group D, on-net/off-net) |
| |PRI |
| |UNI speeds from Analog to T-3 channelized. LANI speeds from Analog to T-3 channelized. Full feature set |
| |supported. |
|900 Service |Sprint 900 – Domestic only, dedicated access only. UNI speeds from Analog to T-3 channelized. LANI speeds|
| |from Analog to T-3 channelized. Very limited feature set. |
|Inside Wiring |Pricing included for the coordination of inside wiring. |
| |When provided with appropriate authority by the ordering agency, Sprint will order inside wiring from the |
| |Government’s designated contractor. In addition, Sprint will also coordinate installation, trouble |
| |reporting, and trouble rectification of inside wiring with the entity selected by the user for inside |
| |wiring. |
| |See your government account manager for more information. |
Table 3.2 Sprint FTS2001 Service Offering
3.1 Circuit Switched Services (CSS)
3.1.1 Switched Voice Service (SVS)
Switched Voice Service (SVS) supports voice or analog data transmission up to 9.6 Kbps. SVS allows calls from all FTS2001 locations to connect to all On-net and Off-net locations through station-to-station dialing.
SVS Access Methods
The Sprint FTS2001 Network is a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and is only available for authorized users. The authorized users can access the network in two ways:
1. Direct Network Access (Dedicated)
2. Indirect Network Access (Switched)
Direct Network Access
Direct network access to FTS2001 is provided via a Dedicated Access Line (DAL).
Dedicated Access
▪ Class 1: Where a user agency orders access circuits from either Sprint or another contractor and is responsible for the Grade of Service (GOS). Users are expected but not required to acquire the number of access circuits recommended by Sprint to achieve a P.03 grade of service.
▪ Class 2: Where a user agency orders a service including access from the Sprint, but Sprint is responsible for the GOS. Users are responsible for ordering and placing into service the number of access circuits recommended by Sprint. Where users do not acquire and activate the number of circuits specified by Sprint for whatever reason or invokeinvokes any make-busy arrangement (including deactivating user ports on a Government switch), the dedicated access Class 2 shall revert to Class 1. Sprint will periodically review and may make recommendations to adjust the quantity of access circuits, dependent on the traffic volume generated by a location. Should the user agency not acquire and activate the service quantities recommended by Sprint in a timely manner, the dedicated access Class 2 willwould revert to Class 1.
▪ Circuit-switched access from the serving local central office: The user is responsible for the local loop from the user equipment to the central office and associated local exchange service. Sprint will support switched access where specified in the individual service descriptions. The user agency is responsible for all ordering activity, activation, and invoices associated.
Indirect Network Access
|On-net Access: |On-Net: Locations that have pre-scribed to |
|Switched access to the FTS2001 network via the PIC process. |one or more FTS2001 Service from Sprint. |
| |Access can be dedicated or switched... |
| |
|Off-net Access: |Off-Net: Locations that have not pre-scribed|
|Access via an 800 number and/or authorization code allows access to the FTS2001 network |to FTS2001 Service from Sprint. |
Access Types by Services
| Service |Dedicated |Switched |Circuit |Toll |900 |Packet |Frame |IP |ATM |
|Access Type |Transmission |Voice |Switched |Free |Service |Switched |Relay |Inter-netwo|Service |
| |Service |Service |Data Service|Service | |Service |Service |rking | |
| | | | | | | | |Service | |
|~ Dedicated Access Types ~ | | | | | | | | | |
|Analog (4 KHz bandwidth) |X |X | |X |X |X | | | |
|Subrate-DSO (4.8/9.6/[19.2]kb/s) |X | |X | | |X | |[X] | |
|DSO (56/64 kb/s) |X | |X | | |X |X |X | |
|Fract-T1 (2/4/6/8/12 x DSO) |X |X |X |X |X |X |X |X | |
|T1 (DS1) |X |X |X |X |X |X |X |X |X |
|ISDN PRI (28B+D and 24 B+D) | |X |X |X |X |X |X |X |[X] |
|Fract-T3 (3/4/5/7 x DS1) |X |X |X |X |X |X |[X] |X |X |
|T3 (DS3) |X |X |X |X |X |X |X |X |X |
|E1 (non-domestic use) |X |X |[X] | | |X |X |X |[X] |
|E3 (non-domestic use) |[X] |[X] |[X] | | | |[X] |[X] |[X] |
|SONET OC-1 VT* |[X] |[X] |[X] |[X] |[X] | |[X] |[X] |[X] |
|SONET OC-1 |[X] |[X] |[X] |[X] |[X] | |[X] |[X] |[X] |
|SONET OC-3 and OC-3c |[X] | | | | | | | |[X] |
|SONET OC-12 and OC-12c |[X] | | | | | | | |[X] |
|~ Circuit Switched Access Types ~ | | | | | | | | | |
|Switched DSO (on-net/off-net) | | |X | | | | | | |
|Bellcore Feature Group D (on-net/off-net) | |X | |X |[X] | | | | |
|Switched NxDSO (on-net/off-net) | | |[X] | | | | | | |
|Switched DS1 (on-net) | | |X | | | | | | |
|Switched DS3 (NxDS1; up to DS3) | |[X] |[X] |[X] |[X] | | | | |
|(on-net/off-net) | | | | | | | | | |
|~ Internetworked Access Types ~ | | | | | | | | | |
|PSS (throughput rate: 9.6/56/64 kb/s) | | | | | |[X] | | | |
|IPS (throughput rate: 9.6/64/1536 kb/s) | | | | | | | |[X] | |
|FRS (CIR: 0/1/2/3/4/6/8/12/16 x DSO, where | | | | | | |[X] | | |
|DSO = 56/64 kb/s) | | | | | | | | | |
|ATMS VBR (SCR: 4/8/16/32 mb/s; | | | | | | | | |[X] |
|CBR (DS1/DS3/OC-3c/OC-12c); UBR | | | | | | | | | |
Table 3.3 FTS2001 Access Types by Service
Legend:
x Denotes a valid access type that can be selected by the user
[x] Denotes an optional access type
o Denotes that there are 7 Virtual Tributary (VT) groups in a OC-1 and each VT group can independently carry either 4 T1s or 3 E1s or 2 DS1Cs or 1 DS2
Notes: When a high bandwidth access type (e.g., T1 or T3) is selected for a low bandwidth service (e.g., SVS or PSS), channelized circuit is assumed.
Sprint works with FTS2001 agencies to determine the customer premise equipment (CPE) needed to support service requirements at each service deliver point (SDP). Interface requirements are determined by site surveys at FTS2001 SDPs.
3.1.1.1 SVS Features
The following features and capabilities of SVS are covered in this section:
|A. Authorization Codes |E. Dial Plan Features |
|FONCARDSM |F. Network Audio Conferencing |
|B. Class of Service |G. Toll Free Service |
|Call Screening |Inward Station Access (Toll Free Service) |
|Class of Service and Restrictions |Inward Selected Access |
|Class of Service Override (Authorization Codes) |Enhanced Toll Free Service |
|Code Block |H. 900 Service |
|C. Agency Recorded Message Announcements |HI. Internal Agency Accounting Codes |
|D. Attendant Services |I.J. Automatic Verification of Authorization Codes |
| |K. Suppression of Calling Number Delivery |
A. Authorization Codes
A.1 FTS2001 Sprint VPN Premiere FONCARDSM
The FTS2001 Sprint FONCARDSM is a randomly generated 14-digit authorization code embossed on a plastic card.
When used for making calls from Off-net locations while away from the office (as from a pay phone), the 14-digit authorization code provides access and billing information for authorized users to make Off-net to Off-net and Off-net to On-net calls.
If a call is placed from On-net (including VON On-Net Switched) locations, the fourteen-digit authorization code provides class of service override on a per call basis.
Authorization codes must be used with Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency (DTMF) terminal equipment. The authorization code cannot be recognized if input is from a rotary dial terminal equipment. In this event, the user accesses an FTS2001 attendant and verbally provides the authorization code and other information necessary for call completion.
The complete dialing instructions are provided on the back of the FTS2001 Authorization Code Card (FONCARDSM ).
The FTS2001 VPN Premiere FONCARDSM will allow callers to complete authorized travel card calls to VPN on-net and off-net locations as well as to all international locations served by Sprint. VPN Premiere FONCARDSM users will enjoy all the features and benefits provided by Sprint’s VPN service.
VPN Premiere FONCARDSM will provide under FTS2001 the same features as our other FONCARDSM products, including Sprint International Access and Message Delivery. Sprint International Access provides convenient, toll-free access from an overseas location to a Sprint operator in the United States, allowing customers abroad to complete calls to the United States or to other international destinations. VPM FONCARD Message Delivery enables callers to deliver messages to the recipient of their choice when they are unable to complete a call due to a busy signal or unanswered line.
The Sprint FONCARDSM provides the Government and its employees the most convenient method of consolidating travel communications expenses. Using the FONCARDSM while out of the office to complete data as well as voice calls allows the Government to combine these calls with other Sprint services to take advantage of Sprint’s most attractive pricing. Many new features (such as using an office number plus a self-selected PIN number) were designed to offer the Government the greatest convenience and security in the calling card market today. Sprint provides a customized FONCARDSM feature, allowing users to imprint their organization’s logo and two lines of text, (i.e., the cardholder’s name, organization name, and organization slogan.)
When traveling overseas, Sprint International Access is available from designated locations to call back to the United States or to any of over 290 direct-dial and operator-assisted international locations, and to charge the call to a Sprint FONCARDSM. In the United States, the FONCARDSM may also be used to place domestic and international calls. Full operator and directory assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The features and benefits of Sprint’s FONCARDSM are detailed in Table 3.4.
|FONCARDSM Number |Order your office phone number plus a self-selected, 4-digit Personal Identification |
| |Number (PIN) as your FONCARDSM number |
|Multiple Calling |Place additional calls after terminating the first call by pressing # for two full |
| |seconds and dialing 0 + new destination number. |
|Misdial Correction |Correct a misdialed destination phone number or authorization code by pressing the * key.|
|Access via 800-877-8000 |Toll-free access is available in the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, |
| |Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. |
|Access via 1010333 |1010333 access is currently supported. |
|Access Number and Authorization |Easy to reference FONCARDSM information. Access number and authorization code are clearly|
|Code on Card |printed on the back of the card. |
|Dialing Instructions on Back of |Easy reference for international and domestic dialing instructions, multiple calling |
|Card |instructions, 24-hour customer service, and Operator Services. |
|Magnetic Stripe |Can use FONCARDSM from Sprint-participating public Card Reader Phones (over 2,000 |
| |locations). |
|Replacement Program |If a FONCARDSM is lost or stolen, the code will be canceled and replaced at no charge to |
| |the Government. Worn or damaged FONCARDsSM may be replaced without changing the |
| |authorization number. |
|International Calling |Can call every direct dial and operator-assisted country in the world. |
|Sprint International Access |When traveling overseas, you can access Sprint operators and place calls back to the |
| |United States or to other international destinations using Sprint International Access |
| |and charging your call to your Sprint FONCARD. |
|Automated Sprint International |When traveling overseas, Sprint offers automated calling via a Voice Response Unit (VRU).|
|Access |All billing options are available with this service. |
|Intra-Canadian Calling |Place calls from any location in Canada to any location in Canada or the rest of the |
| |world. |
|Operator Services |Place calls from any telephone in the United States to any U.S. or international |
| |location. |
|Customer Service – Toll-Free |Customer service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, via toll-free access. |
|Number | |
|Multiple Cards Available (per |Multiple cards are available under one account. Each card has a unique 14-digit code for |
|account) |easy tracking and differentiation. |
|Call Detail |Shows originating and terminating cities along with FONCARDSM numbers, authorization |
| |codes and/or accounting codes. |
|Public Telephone Access |Same access number (800-877-8000) regardless of the caller’s location or the telephone |
| |used. Compatible with Credit Card Reader telephones, Select-A-Carrier telephones, |
| |universal telephones, and rotary dial telephones. |
|Accounting Codes |Basic and advanced accounting codes are available to facilitate cost allocation for all |
| |FONCARDSM calls and charge back to specific departments or projects. Codes can be one to |
| |five digits, allowing up to 100,000 different codes. |
|Computerized FONCARDSM Listing |A magnetic tape or diskette record of all FONCARD authorization codes can be provided |
| |(minimum 100 codes per order). |
Table 3.4 FONCARDSM Features and Benefits
B. Class of Service Restriction
Class of Service provides the ability to control individual or group calling capabilities. This improves network manageability and reduces the potential for abuse.
B.1 Class of Service Screening
Class of Service indicates to the network switch if there are any restrictions on the call the user is attempting. The Sprint FTS2001 Network allows up to 200 classes of service.
The class of service is passed to the Sprint FTS2001 Network switch. The switch determines whether the call being attempted should be allowed. If allowed, the call is completed; if not, the call is blocked.
B.2 Class of Service Override (Authorization Codes)
The Class of Service Override feature allows a user to override the Class of Service assigned to the facility they are using.
B.3 Code Block
Code Block allows the Sprint FTS2001 Network to block certain calls based on specific details of the called station and/or calling type.
Calls can be restricted by the Code Block feature depending upon how the call is placed (Access Method) or the destination of the call. Once a call is placed, the Sprint FTS2001 Network switch examines the called number, the class of service by trunk group, the automatic number identification (ANI) and the authorization code. The call is then extended through the network or blocked. The user hears an announcement if the call is blocked.
C. Agency Recorded Message Announcements
Agency Recorded Message Announcements (ARMAs) allow authorized network users the ability to record and make available information for distribution in audio format to callers.
ARMA messages are stored in FTS2001 Voice Server Systems (VSS) throughout the network. FTS2001 users can be provided with ARMA recordings having the following conditions:
▪ ARMA messages are accessed by dialing a 10-digit On-net destination number;
▪ ARMA is available to all On-net, Off-net and dial access users;
▪ ARMA messages are stored in digitized format;
▪ Up to 250 callers can simultaneously listen to the same message;
▪ ARMA messages are three minutes maximum in duration;
▪ The Voice Server System answers by the fifth ring and automatically disconnects on message delivery;
▪ Call routing information is stored in the FTS2001 Network Switches;
▪ FTS2001 system-wide capacity allows 300 recorded messages;
▪ ARMA messages can be accessed 24 hours a day.
D. Attendant Services
FTS2001 attendants are available 24 hours a day, Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays. If dialing difficulties are encountered, the attendant can be called for assistance. The attendant will place the call and stay on the line until the call is connected.
Attendants can verify and input authorization codes for callers using rotary dial phones. They provide the following services:
▪ Call completion (dialing difficulties): FTS2001 attendants assist users encountering dialing difficulties and stay on the line until the call is connected.
▪ Call completion with verbal authorization code validation: Attendants verify user Authorization Codes provided verbally by FTS2001 callers and, following verification, they may complete the call.
▪ Directory assistance: FTS2001 attendants provide locator service numbers to network users as a source of further information for contacting specific agency organizations. After providing the number, the attendant may complete the call.
Off-net directory assistance for Public Switched Network numbers is also available to FTS2001 users by dialing 1 + the terminating region's area code + 555-1212. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The attendant service feature can be accessed from all types of terminal equipment including rotary dial telephones. To reach an FTS2001 attendant:
▪ from an On-net location - dial 0 (zero);
▪ from an Off-net location - dial 1+800-877-8000, when you hear the tone dial 0 (zero);
E. Dial Plan Features
E.1 Custom Dialing Plans
For switched locations, the Government can design its own 7-digit on-net dialing plan by choosing the NXXs that will be used in the network. Callers may also continue to use the North American Dialing Plan to reach on-net locations. Sprint will perform the necessary intelligent routing to complete these calls on your network.
Location codes for a 7-digit dialing plan are normally provided in the NXX format (N=2 through 9, X=0 through 9). The NXX 989 is reserved by Sprint for special VPN features.
For dedicated locations, this feature will allow the Government to create its own 4- to 15-digit intra-organization private dialing plan. The 10-digit dial plan will continue to be reserved exclusively for the North American Numbering Plan.
E.2 Switched On-Net
Designed for customers using a Custom or Private dialing plan, this feature allows them to complete a Custom Dial Plan call (i.e. 7 digits) to locations without dedicated access and gives the appearance of a dedicated on-net location. Callers dial their Private Dial Plan number assigned to a switched access location, and Sprint’s intelligent network routes the call to the switched access location via the LEC.
E.3 International Switched On-Net
The International Switched On-Net feature provides the capability for Government locations in the United States to use Custom Dial Plan numbers, as described above, to call international locations. The Custom Dial Plan number is referenced in the SCP to a specific International Direct Distance Dial (IDDD) number and sent back to the originating SSP (DMS-300), which routes the call to its foreign destination. This feature is available to any Sprint VPN Premiere customer (i.e., not limited to International VPN Premiere or Global VPN customers), and offers Custom Dial Plan call completion to every direct dial country in the world. Sprint’s VPN Premiere service also covers the more than 300 countries served by Sprint’s Direct-Dial service.
E.4 700 + 7-digit Dialing
With 700 Access, switched on-net locations will originate VPN traffic via a Government-defined 7-digit dialing plan. The dialing format is 1-700-NXX-XXXX. The originating location must be presubscribed to Sprint and have Feature Group D (FGD) access. The originating ANI identifies the Government’s VPN Premiere location.
E.5 Private Network Interface (PNI)
Private Network Interface (PNI) allows a Sprint VPN to connect with an existing private network(s) through a tie-line arrangement between the Sprint network node and the private network node. Under this arrangement, the VPN network node appears like a remote PBX to the private network node. More than one PNI can be part of a network.
These networks include Electronic Tandem Network (ETN), Electronic Switch Network (ESN), and Enhanced Private Switched Communications Service (EPSCS). PNI mirrors private network dialing plans.
F. Network Audio Conferencing
Network Audio conferencing Service can be used to:
▪ Bring employees, colleagues or vendors together from across the country in a matter of minutes;
▪ Provide the spontaneous interaction of a face-to-face meeting without the expense and costly downtime involved in travel;
▪ Make meetings more productive with pre-meeting briefings or post-meeting follow-up;
▪ Arrange impromptu meetings or schedule regular meetings in advance.
|The maximum number of ports that can be used for any single call is 400. Security access codes and |Port: |
|conference recording are available features. The following sections explain all the features and the |Entrance or access point to a computer, |
|different ways to set up conference calling. |multiplexer device, or network where |
| |signals may be supplied, extracted, or |
| |observed |
F.1 Audio Conferencing
Sprint will provide network audio conferencing for two- and four-wire audio conference equipment, as well as to any telephone accessible via Sprint’s network.
To use Sprint Conference Line® Basic Service under FTS2001, the user will first make a reservation by dialing the Sprint Conference Line® Basic Service reservation number:
1+ 888-543-8027
While reservations can be made within 10 minutes of the call, advance reservations are recommended.
The reservation will be made based on the date of the call, the starting time, the desired call length, and the number of locations (telephone lines) to be linked together. This information is entered into an automatic scheduling system that then provides a confirmed reservation. The conference coordinator will provide the dial-in number and the authorization code for access to the conference.
At the reserved time, the conference participants either call into the conference (on a number provided at the point of reservation) or are called by a Sprint Conference Coordinator. The conference participants are then “bridged” together on a conference bridging system. Sprint Conference Line® can accommodate hundreds of participants per call.
Sprint Conference Line® currently offers three types of conference calls, any of which may be mixed to meet the needs of an individual conference. These types include dial-in, dial-out and dial-in toll-free. Conferencing is also available as attended or limited attended.
On attended calls, the Sprint Conference Coordinator greets and connects each participant, provides a roll call, announces late arrivals or early departures and is available for additional assistance. On the limited attended bridge, tones are used instead of announcements to indicate entrances to or exits from the conference.
Attended conferences start when the “chairperson” indicates that he/she is ready to begin. During the reservation process, the chairperson may designate an option for handling participants who are on-line prior to the start of the call. The options include:
▪ Place participants on hold with music (independent from one another).
▪ Place participants on hold without music (independent from one another).
▪ Bridge participants as they call in, allowing them to converse prior to the formal start of the meeting.
All conferences include the availability of on-line assistance. Participants on both attended and limited attended calls may always access the Conference Coordinator for assistance by entering “*” and “0” (zero).
For FTS2001, Sprint will provide several convenient options for making conference call reservations during which the user specifies the number of lines needed (up to 400 ports) for the duration of the call:
▪ Live Agent - Meeting Consultants are available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day to explain the options and to assist you in scheduling a conference call.
▪ Fax - Forms are available that prompt you for the necessary information required to establish an account and schedule a conference.
▪ Internet - For an existing customer, the Internet can be used to specify the details required to schedule a conference. Confirmation is provided via the telephone and fax.
Each participant dials in to a Sprint Conference Line® at the scheduled time, using his/her own long-distance service or a toll free number. The caller is prompted to enter a confirmation number that provides access to the conference. The conferees will be put into conference after inputting the authorization code. Once activated the system will then attempt to connect the pre-designated participant. The conferees will be put into conference after inputting the designated authorization code.
Both the dial-in numbers, which can be a NANP (North American Numbering Plan) or a toll free number or both, and an authorization number are provided to the chairperson during the reservation process. Conferences using the same dial-in number and access code may be duplicated for up to a 3-month period. As with attended Dial-In Conferencing, the dial-in and confirmation numbers may be distributed to the participants by the client or by Sprint. Tones will indicate entrances (one tone) and exits (two tones) from the conference as well as alert the chairperson when 15 minutes and 5 minutes (via automated voice) remain on the conference.
▪ The chairperson may request assistance from a Sprint Conference Line® agent by pressing *0 (*zero) on the keypad. An agent is available to (1) add additional participants to the call or (2) extend the duration of the call.
▪ His or her communications carrier bills the cost of each participant's call into the conference (as with any other long-distance call). Charges are based on the actual usage, not the reserved length of the conference call. Sprint Conference Line® centers are located in Kansas City, MO or to Jacksonville, FL.
▪ Sprint Conference Line® charges for connecting the call are billed via a monthly invoice to the account under which the reservation was made. Charge detail includes the name of the conference chairperson.
▪ Participants may dial in to the call from anywhere in the world.
Sprint’s Personal Conferencing is an enhancement to the Sprint Conference line automated, unattended service. This enhancement eliminates the need for the customer to place a reservation prior to a conference and in essence allows the customer to hold a conference on demand. Among other features, this enhancement will exceed the basic requirement and allow the chairperson to dial out with bridging capability to add up to twenty conferees.
Sprint Conference Line® services offer a number of features for attended and/or limited attended calls.
|Feature |Description |Attended |Limited Attended |
|Roll Call |Just prior to the start of the conference call, the Conference |X | |
| |Coordinator conducts a roll call of all participants. There is no | | |
| |charge for this feature. | | |
|Coordinator on Demand |Any participant can press “*” (star), then “0” (zero) on a touchtone |X |X |
| |phone during a conference to reach a Conference Coordinator. The | | |
| |Conference Coordinator can provide assistance, resolve any audio level| | |
| |difficulties, or add participants to a conference. There is no charge | | |
| |for this feature. | | |
|Monitoring |Conference calls are monitored for clarity and volume to ensure |X | |
| |unsurpassed audio quality. Monitoring is only provided with prior | | |
| |approval from the chairperson. There is no charge for this feature. | | |
|Announcements |The Conference Coordinator will announce the late arrival as well as |X | |
| |early departure of each participant. There is no charge for this | | |
| |feature. | | |
|Password Security |Recommended for highly confidential conference meetings, each |X | |
| |participant is required to provide a pre-designated password before | | |
| |being allowed access into the meeting. | | |
|Advance Notification |Sprint Conference Line® can notify meeting participants by fax or |X |X |
| |phone call of an upcoming conference. | | |
|Audio taping |Conference meetings can be taped for complete conference meeting |X | |
| |records. All participants are notified before the conference call | | |
| |begins that the call will be taped. High-speed duplication and on-line| | |
| |tape playback are also available. | | |
|Conference Fax |The chairperson can request that documents be faxed to all meeting |X |X |
| |participants before, during, or after a conference call. | | |
|Sub-conferencing |Subconferencing allows the chairperson to split a conference call into|X | |
| |groups for “break-out sessions”, then reconvene for discussion with | | |
| |the entire group of participants. | | |
|Conference Security Lock-Out|Complete security is available by “locking out” late participants as |X | |
| |well as the Sprint Conference Line® Conference Coordinator. The | | |
| |chairperson activates this feature using a touchtone phone. | | |
|Lecture Mode/ Listen Only |Lecture mode allows the main speaker of the conference meeting to |X | |
| |“lecture” uninterrupted by other participants during some or all of | | |
| |the conference call. | | |
|Automated Polling |Automated polling allows conferees to participate in a poll using a |X | |
| |touchtone phone to answer multiple choicemultiple-choice questions. | | |
| |The conference chairperson may request the results in verbal or | | |
| |printed form. | | |
|Question and Answer Queuing |Q&A Queuing allows conferees to participate in a question and answer |X | |
|(Q&A) |session using a touchtone phone keypad. This feature is limited to | | |
| |conference calls with 20 or more participants. | | |
Table 3.5 Sprint Conference Line® Features
G. Toll Free Service
|Sprint’s Toll Free service allows callers to be connected from switched on-net or off-net locations to |ANSI: |
|pre-designated stations or locations by dialing certain Toll Free and message-unit-free (e.g., 800, 888, 877) |A standards body and the U.S. agent for|
|service access code numbers. The Toll Free services comply with all Bellcore and ANSI standards, primarily |the International Standards |
| |Organization (ISO). |
Bellcore’s BOC Notes on the LEC Networks, and ANSI ISDN and SS7 standards. Charges for the call are paid by the subscriber of the toll free number.
|Enhanced Feature |Description |Benefit to Customer |
|Information Digit |Route and block calls based on what type of phone |Choice of routing calls placed from hotels, motels, |
|Control |isRoute and block calls based on what type of phone are|cellular, prison phones, and payphones differently than |
| |used in initiating a call. |those calls placed from a standard telephone line. |
| | |Customer has control in blocking Toll Free calls |
| | |initiated from a payphone to avoid costly charges |
| | |required by the recent Payphone Surcharge ruling. |
| | |Customer can control unnecessary costs associated with |
| | |unwanted calls. |
|Area Code/Exchange |Ability to more accurately define locations of service |Assist in marketing efforts based on geography. Use call|
|Control |and determine routing based on where the caller is |data for market research for possible future expansion. |
| |geographically. In the past, two nodes were needed to |More flexibility in marketing services to customers. |
| |use this feature; only one is needed now. | |
|Variable Length Dialed |Customer can order a different number of identifying |More efficient customer service. |
|Number Identification |digits for several toll free numbers terminating to the| |
|Service (DNIS) Digits |same trunk group. The number of digits have been | |
| |increased from 10 to 16, the most the industry has to | |
| |offer. | |
|Expanded Screening |Customer determines when to receive phone calls through|An important feature for customers who do not answer |
|Capabilities for Basic |screening capabilities such as time of day, day of |calls 24 hours a day. |
|Toll Free Service |week, day of year, and Information Digit Control. This|Control of toll free calls. |
| |is limited to basic toll free customers. | |
|International |Ability to send toll free calls to a location outside |Customers and employees can reach their international |
|Termination |the United States. Also enables routing of inbound |locations effortlessly when traveling through the US by |
| |International Toll Free Service to another location |dialing a toll free number or provide follow-the-sun |
| |outside of the US. |routing for Global Call Centers. |
|International Call |For customers subscribing to Real Time ANI and |Customer service is alerted of inbound international |
|Indicator (ICI) |International Toll Free Services, these newly added |calls before answering the call |
| |digits would be a prefix code to the regular phone | |
| |number. | |
|Universal Routing |The ability to route all toll free calls using a single|Increases productivity and saves money on toll free |
| |routing plan rather than individual routing plans. |services. |
|Country of Origin |A routing set can be developed to determine the |Customers can route a call based on the language of the |
|Routing |destination of International toll free calls based on |caller and develop better rapport by answering in the |
| |the originating country. |caller’s preferred language. |
Table 3.3 Toll Free Features
The caller dials a number in the format 1-8XX-NXX-XXXX and the call is routed and billed to the Government. With Sprint’s Toll Free service, interstate, intrastate and international calls can be completed on the same line. Single-line as well as single-number convenience eliminates caller confusion and saves the cost of additional lines.
Sprint’s Toll Free service allows the public to be connected from off-net locations to predesignated users and information providing systems, located at Government designated location(s), to receive information provided by prerecorded messages and in combination with voice response systems or answering agents.
|Sprint’s FTS2001 Toll-Free service allows callers to be connected from switched on-net or off-net locations to |POP: |
|predesignated stations or locations by dialing certain Toll-Free and message-unit-free (e.g., 800, 888, and 877) |Point of presence. |
|service access code numbers. | |
Sprint provides switched access connections for the Toll-Free service calls. Access connections connect the terminating POP with the Toll-Free services’ dedicated and/or switched terminating locations.
Sprint is the responsible organization for all of the Government’s toll free numbers on the Sprint network. Sprint’s toll-free service Toll Free numbers. Also, Sprint supports any vanity numbers, as available.
Outside of the U.S., toll free numbers are assigned in a manner consistent with the requirements and practices of each individual host country, on a country-by-country basis. Sprint uses the numbering plan set forth for International Toll Free numbers when acquiring toll free numbers internationally.
Sprint’s Dedicated Toll-free service is designed for the high-volume user and terminates on Dedicated Access Facilities (DAFs). Termination is completed via T1 digital access or dedicated analog lines.
Sprint’s Switched Toll-free service is designed for the low to mid-range user. Termination is completed via local business lines ordered by the customer and provided by the Local Exchange Carrier (LEC). In addition to toll-free calls, both local and long distance calls can be originated or terminated on these lines.
On the Toll-Free network, Sprint supports network intercept messages for possible problems which may occur, such as time out during dialing, network congestion, denial of access because the caller is not in the specified area code, denial of access to off-net or non-domestic calls, and other related conditions to include denial of access to features. Sprint provides a busy signal or a recorded announcement if there is congestion in the network and/or terminating egress congestion. Sprint provides traces on calls made to any Government toll free number on the Sprint network.
Sprint supports all of the following toll free transport mandatory requirements, to provide a user agency the capability to have calls to a single Toll-Free number directed to multiple agency locations and/or multiple groups of lines at the same agency location. The toll free transport features is capable of being used independently of each other or in any combination except where noted. The combination of features for each Toll-Free number constitute a call routing plan whereby a maximum of 5,000 nodes and are subject to programmable control by the subscribing agency via the Routing Control Feature.
Sprint supports the capability to have all mandatory announcements recorded and stored in English and Spanish.
G.1 Toll-Free Number Assignment and Maintenance
This feature allows users to request assignment and maintenance of toll-free numbers. As the responsible organization, Sprint assumes overall responsibility for the assignment, provisioning, testing, and maintenance of all Government toll-free services on the Sprint network. The duties of the responsible organization require Sprint to ensure that all records are loaded, maintained, and updated in the SMS/Toll-Free database on behalf of the Government in a timely and accurate manner. In addition, Sprint becomes the primary point of contact for trouble reporting and resolution. The responsible organization functionality is seen as a natural extension of current customer service provided by Sprint.
Portability provides agencies the ability to keep their current toll free number, even if they switch to a different carrier. Portability provides all FTS2001 Network agencies the ability to migrate all of their existing toll free numbers to Sprint under the FTS2001 Network contract. Benefits to the agencies are:
▪ cost-savings provided by increased network usage;
▪ ability to manage toll free service as well as other services with one carrier;
▪ consolidated billing with other FTS2001 services.
Toll free number portability provides screening on the full 10 digits dialed (8XX-NXX-XXXX). The screening is done via a national database so that the call can be routed to the correct IXC.
G.2 Terminating Announcement
Sprint’s Terminating Announcement feature permits calls to be directed and terminated to a network recorded announcement scripted by the user and recorded by Sprint or to a Sprint-provided generic announcement to assist in the completion of calls. The recorded announcement may be Toll-Free number specific or site specific as specified by the user. This feature need not be a stand-alone feature. This announcement provides the caller with further information on the disposition of the call. Announcements can be up to two minutes in length and will always be played from the beginning for each caller. The announcements will be available in either voice or electronic form as specified by the user. When the electronic form is specified, the message will be receivable by the callers' terminals (e.g., Telecommunications Device for the Deaf [TDD]) designed to transmit/ receive information in American Standard Code for Information Interchange/Teletypewriter (ASCII/TTY) or Baudot Code formats.
Sprint’s Enhanced Services Platform gives the Government the ability to streamline the distribution and access of information, efficiently process routine transactions, and perform interactive marketing functions. If you have experienced “please press 1 for sales, 2 for customer service” when using a toll-free number, you have experienced a form of interactive voice services such as are provided by Sprint’s Enhanced Services Platform.
Sprint Enhanced Services are a breakthrough in making voice and information response applications easy to create and understand. With Enhanced Voice Services, you have everything you need to design your own unique applications by simply choosing from a menu of building blocks and using these building blocks in virtually any number and combination.
G.3 Message Announcement
Sprint’s Message Announcement is the most basic core building block and is used in most programs. A Message Announcement is simply a recorded voice message that is played anywhere in an Enhanced Toll-Free Service. You can update your Message Announcements as often as you desire, in real-time, by simply dialing a toll-free number and speaking your new message.
Message Announcements are enabled in 30-second voice slots. Each separate message or menu requires its own voice slot. Thus, for a 5-second voice message, a 30-second voice slot must be used. Callers do not hear dead air for unused time in a voice slot; it is automatically skipped when the program is played. This gives you the flexibility to use the Real-time Voice Update feature to change your Message Announcement to any desired length as long as it fits within the 30-second voice slots. When the Real-time Voice Update is used, the entire voice slot must be re-recorded. If you anticipate changing the greeting to your program frequently, you may find it more convenient to use a separate voice slot for your greeting than that used for your menu. In this way, your menu would not need to be re-voiced with each greeting update. Voice slots may be linked together to accommodate long messages. An individual message must be at least 5 seconds (one 30-second voice slot) and no longer than 5 minutes (ten 30-second voice slots). The maximum total message storage available for a program is 24 hours (2880 30-second voice slots) of Message Announcements.
A Message Announcement may be used:
▪ To provide a menu of options
▪ To provide any voice information, either as a stand-alone message or as a “dead end” from a menu
▪ To provide information before immediately out-dialing to a toll-free number, without any caller interaction (similar to an En Route Message, but within a menu).
Sprint provides capability for announcements up to two minutes in length. Announcements are always played from the beginning for each caller. Sprint provides the capability to have the announcements recorded and stored in English and other languages. The recorded announcement will be available in either voice or Baudot format as specified by the user. When recorded announcement in electronic form is specified, another toll free number will be assigned, and will terminate to a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf / Teletypewriter [TDD / TTY] designed to transmit/receive information in Baudot Code format.
G.4 In-Route Announcements
This feature permits an announcement up to two minutes in length to be played to callers during call setup at any point without affecting the final destination/route of the call. Sprint provides for all the capabilities associated with recorded announcements. An example of an application for this feature is an announcement that might say, “Thank you for pressing 2. Please have your account number ready as we route your call.”
Sprint’s Enhanced Services platform is used to support the Government’s In-Route announcements. The Call Referral feature is the building block that essentially “transfers” the call by connecting the caller to a second Sprint toll-free number and, in turn, to the Customer Premise Equipment (CPE). The Call Referral toll-free number is normal toll-free service in every respect. The call is transferred by the Enhanced Services platform to either a Sprint switched or dedicated toll-free location. The call is referred based on caller-entered digits or by default.
The In Route Message Building Block is used to provide all callers with information before the call is delivered. The In Route Message can simply ask callers to have their account numbers ready; the second toll-free call is immediately dialed without any menu interaction with the caller. “Please hold while we connect your call” messages are a type of In Route Message. Custom “please hold” messages are also supported and must be 6 seconds or less in length. If you desire a longer message, the Message Announcement Building Block would be used and the message would be played prior to an In Route Message.
G.5 Routing Control
|This feature permits the user to review, create, validate, change, or execute his / her call routing plans via a |Call Routing: |
|terminal located at the subscribing agency premises. Sprint provides adequate security procedures that prevent |The process of selecting a |
|unauthorized access to this feature. Sprint provides any hardware/software (e.g., terminal, modem) necessary to permit |circuit path for a message. |
|the user to | |
utilize this feature. A user may provide his / her own terminal equipment when it meets Sprint-provided specifications. Access is provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Uploading of a call routing plan is completed no later than 15 minutes after the uploading procedure is completed by the user. Validation of routing plans is completed 15 minutes after completion of the upload. Execution of a validated routing plan is accomplished within 15 minutes of notification to Sprint .
G.6 Customer Controlled Reconfiguration
|This feature allows the Government to change relationships between originating and terminating locations on their |ANI: |
|network for the duration that they choose, without placing specific service orders to Sprint. This feature also allows |Automatic Number |
|for management access to FONCARDSM and ANIs through Call Control, accounting codes, authorization codes, and Personal |Identification |
|Identification Numbers (PINs). | |
G.7 Customer Specified Routing
This feature allows the Government to override Sprint’s normal network routing on a per transaction basis. Sprint’s systems support, at a minimum, 12 predefined alternative call routing plans. These routing plans are validated by the system within 15 minutes. Once Sprint has been notified to execute a predefined routing plan, it is activated within 5 minutes.
G.8 Dialed Number Identification Service (DNIS)
This feature permits a user with multiple toll-free numbers in the same service group to identify electronically the specific toll-free number that was dialed by the calling party.
With DNIS, Government representatives are provided more personalized service by answering calls to each of multiple toll-free numbers uniquely. DNIS permits calls from multiple toll-free numbers to complete to the same trunk group, while enabling the Government to identify and handle each toll-free number uniquely.
When a toll-free call is placed, a translation number is assigned for routing the call to a destination trunk group. When the call reaches the Sprint terminating switch, DNIS outpulses up to ten Government-defined digits to your PBX, which identifies each toll-free number originally dialed. All access lines within the same trunk group must be equipped for DNIS.
G.9 Enhanced DNIS
DNIS can be combined with Sprint’s Enhanced Toll-Free features to provide flexible, efficient toll-free applications. For example, a customer utilizing a single, nationwide toll-free number terminating at a single location, can route calls from various regions of the country to specific agent groups, based upon the NPA of the calling party. This is accomplished by the assigning of unique DNIS digits to groups of NPAs. Additionally, unique DNIS digits can be associated with Sprint’s other Enhanced Toll-Free features (e.g., Time-of Day Routing) to create custom business solutions.
Sprint supports up to 99 call routing plans. Sprint supports the uploading of a call routing plan within 15 minutes after completion of the upload procedure. Sprint validates the routing plan within 15 minutes after completion of the upload. Sprint is required to execute a validated plan within 15 minutes of notification by an authorized user. Sprint exceeds requirements by executing a validated plan within 5 minutes.
[pic]
Figure 3.1 Enhanced DNIS
G.10 Interactive Announcement/Response Arrangement
This feature is available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, to permit callers to hear agency-specific information after dialing a toll-free number. In conjunction with interactive prompting, Sprint provides a means for callers to:
▪ Select via DTMF signal, pre-recorded informational messages. Sprint provides capability for announcements up to two minutes in length. Such announcements are always bebeing played from the beginning for each caller. Sprint provides the capability to have the announcements recorded and stored in English and other languages after obtaining subscribing agency script approval.
▪ Leave caller information via DTMF signal or speech (e.g., names, addresses, account information, phone numbers, responses).
▪ Query a database (via DTMF) that delivers agency-provided information (e.g., the address of the nearest subscribing agency office in response to the caller entry of his or her residential zip code). The database may be housed in the subscribing agency or, at the subscribing agency’s discretion, housed in a Sprint location and updated by the subscribing agency. If housed in the subscribing agency, the user will be responsible for providing connections to Sprint’s system. Database queries are via Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)/IP, User Datagram Protocol (UDP)/IP or LU 6.2 protocols at the agency’s discretion.
Sprint also provides a similar capability to allow callers to hear and verify their names and addresses in an agency-provided name and address database after the caller has entered their telephone number via DTMF, or based on the caller’s ANI. The matched street name is then spoken back to the caller to verify the correct address.
Sprint provides a means for verification of caller entered information. For example, after callers have entered a date, Sprint will ask the caller to verify (e.g., by pressing or saying “one”) that they just entered, for example, “October 25, 19981999”.
To accommodate callers with dial-pulse telephone sets, Sprint supports speech recognition as a valid caller input. Sprint supports all spoken numeric digits as well as “yes” and “no.” English and Spanish language callers are supported. Sprint is able to accept and process at a minimum 95 percent of the above speech responses. The speech responses which are not accepted shall, at the Government’s option, be routed to a Sprint operator for assistance or to the subscribing agency’s default routing.
Sprint provides a means for the subscribing agency to retrieve caller-entered DTMF or speech messages.
Features equivalent to the above are available to individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities via electronic means in Baudot and ASCII/TTY code format. These electronic form lines need not be voice feature enabled.
The platform’s Voice Capture® premium feature enables the Government to record information about frequent callers, such as names, addresses and phone numbers. With Voice Capture®, callers may be prompted to leave a standard recording (e.g., name, address, city, state, and zip code) or a free-form message.
With a standard recording, each caller is prompted to leave the same information. Typically this information is name, address, telephone number, or company name. The caller may also be prompted to respond via touchtone input. DTMF input is “stamped” on the Voice Capture® message. The caller may hear one prompt for all information, or there may be separate prompts for each piece of information. The Sprint system will also provide verification of caller entered digits (“you entered 48256, please press 1 if this is correct or press 2 to re-enter”.) It is recommended that the minimum amount of time allotted for a standard recording be 45 seconds, to avoid cutting the caller off.
With a free-form message, each caller may leave a different message. Free-form messages may be used to gather opinion or product feedback information. The usual amount of time allotted for these typetypes of messages is up to two minutes.
Sprint offers transcription services in conjunction with the Voice Capture® Building Block. The Government may choose to have their Voice Capture® messages transcribed into any of the following formats:
▪ Pressure sensitive labels
▪ Cheshire labels
▪ Hard copy
▪ Diskette
▪ Magnetic tape
▪ Electronic file transfer
▪ The minimum turn-around time for transcription services is five days.
Users may also receive the Voice Capture® messages on cassette tape. At least two days are required from the time the caller leaves the message until the cassette tape is sent.
The Database Speakback premium feature lets callers access and hear information about the Government, based upon caller-entered digits, such as a zip code. This feature provides callers with speakback of recorded information including the callers name and address. The information is retrieved from a Government-provided database and is spoken to the caller as a customized (recorded) voice or concatenated (computerized) voice. Concatenated speaking is restricted to digits 0 through 9 and is spoken in standard female voice. Sprint will provide the Government the capacity for the matched street name to be spoken back to the caller to verify the correct address. Caller information is captured by the digits entered on the telephone keypad or by real-time ANI, the automatic capture of the caller’s telephone number. Accept or Reject messages are provided free of charge to acknowledge valid and invalid digit entry.
Options with Database Speakback include rotations, which distribute calls evenly among several locations, such as when several locations exist within the same zip code. An alternative is multiple speakback, which allows your application to provide up to five (5) locations or options to a caller on a single call.
Features equivalent to the aforementioned will be available to individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities ASCII/TTY and Baudot code formats. The ASCII/TTY and Baudot code will be supported by users calling a separate toll-free number than the voice toll free number.
G.11 Percentage Routing
This feature permits calls to be distributed between two or more agency subscriber locations and/or service groups based on an agency subscriber’s specified percentage distribution from zero percent to 100 percent in one percent increments.
Sprint’s Call Allocation toll-free feature permits the Government to distribute incoming call attempts for a single toll-free number to alternative locations, agents, or groups on a percentage basis. The Government may define up to 100 locations for each toll-free number. The actual distribution is a percentage specified by the Government (in increments of 1 percent and the sum must equal 100 percent). The purpose of this feature is to match call volumes to call handling capacity.
By balancing traffic across multiple centers, the Government can make more effective use of personnel and facilities.
G.12 NPA/NXX Routing
This feature permits calls originating from within agency subscriber-selected geographic areas, defined by one or more NPAs and/or NPA/NXX combinations, to be routed to an agency subscriber specified location. Where NPA/NXX is not available, calls can be routed to an agency defined default location.
Sprint’s Area Code Routing feature permits routing calls for a single toll-free number to different centers or trunk groups based upon the caller’s area code. For a given toll-free number, each area code can have a designated Government destination or be blocked. Usually Area Code Routing is used to provide geographic routing to the nearest Government site.
The Government may also choose to assign area code groups that represent marketing or service regions. Eligible originating area codes include the United States, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Canada. Area Code Routing can also apply to all International Toll-Free Service calls.
An extension of Area Code Routing, Area Code/Exchange (NPA/NXX) Routing permits the Government to route calls for a single toll-free number to different centers or trunk groups based upon the caller’s area code and local exchange, which the Government has defined. If the NPA-NXX is not in the list for special routing, it can be routed to the default location.
G.13 ANI-Based Routing
This feature permits calls to be routed based on the full ANI of the callers. Default routing defined by the subscribing agency is used if ANI is not available.
Sprint’s Enhanced Services platform supports routing of calls based on the full 10-digit length (ANI) of the calling number. Sprint defines a default route if the ANI is unavailable, which the subscribing agency must furnish.
G.14 Time of Day Routing
This feature permits calls to be routed to different agency-specified locations depending on the time of day. At least 48 time of day increments are allowed with minimum separation of 15 minutes between time increments.
Time-of-Day Routing permits the Government to change the destination of calls for a single toll-free number at different times of day. The Government sets up a schedule of different time intervals (15-minute increments) per day and designates a routing destination for each interval. This schedule applies seven days a week.
The time intervals defined remain fixed until they are changed or they are preempted by Day-of-Week, Day-of-Year, or Command Routing. The Government has support for 48 time of day increments, with minimum separation of 15 minutes between time increments.
Time-of-Day Routing may be used to extend call coverage by routing calls to a 24-hour call center when other locations are closed. Time-of-Day Routing lets you take advantage of time zone differences, thereby extending the business day to fully utilize facilities and provide better service as illustrated in Figure 3.2.
[pic]
Figure 3.2 Enhanced Routing Features: Time of Day, Day of Week, Day of Year
G.15 Day of Week Routing
This feature permits calls to be routed to different agency specified locations depending on the day of the week. Day-of-Week Routing permits calls to a single toll-free number to be routed to different destinations based on the day of the week the call is made. The Government specifies the schedule for these routing changes. The schedule applies to all weeks of the year.
Day-of-Week Routing can be preempted by Day-of-Year Routing or Command Routing. Call coverage can be extended by routing weekend calls to a seven-day call center when a customer’s other locations may be closed. Day-of-Week Routing optimizes resources and allows for better service.
Day-of-Year Routing permits calls placed to a single toll-free number to be routed to multiple service groups or locations based on the day of the year. The Government can designate over 200 days for special routing. Call coverage can be extended by routing calls to centers that operate during holidays, or it may be used to route calls differently during peak seasons.
G.16 Command Routing
This feature permits an agency subscriber who has subscribed to one or more of the above routing features to route calls differently (i.e., select a different predefined routing path alternative) on command at any time. Command Routing also permits the Government to store preplanned alternate routing plans in Sprint’s network for activation on command. This feature provides flexibility and control over the routing of the Government’s toll-free traffic. Command Routing is dependent upon one or more of the above features. For example, under Percentage Routing where the paths of 20 percent, 30 percent, and 50 percent have been previously defined, the subscribing agency will be able to select on command a path that is different from the currently active path. The command may be issued from a subscriber’s command terminal (See Routing Control feature) or orally via call-in through authorized personnel. The routing command shall be executed within 10 minutes of issuance. Sprint provides adequate security procedures that can be used to prevent unauthorized activation of this feature. Sprint also supports a minimum of 12 predefined alternative call routing plans for a subscribing agency. The Government has two means of activating toll-free routing plans within 5 minutes:
▪ Place a call to Sprint’s Service Management Center (SMC);
▪ Access the CCR feature in Sprint Circuit-Switched Manager..
The Government’s Toll-Free Command Routing plans are prestored in the Sprint network. Sprint can store up to 99 alternate routes per toll-free number. Command Routing is illustrated in Figure 3.3.
[pic]
Figure 3.3 Command Routing
When the call is made to the SMC, Sprint will activate a preplanned alternative within 5 minutes from the time the Government calls and places a valid request. Before an actual change is implemented, the caller must successfully complete security procedures to prevent unauthorized activation of this feature. A command can be issued from Sprint’s circuit switched manager console at the agency's location, which will activate a new route set. This access to the system via dial-in will be password-protected.
G. 17 Network Call Distributor Routing
This feature provides call routing capabilities based on real-time information obtained from the subscribing agency’s automatic call distributors (ACDs). Sprint polls all of the subscribing agency’s ACDs every 20 to 60 seconds for real-time ACD operating status information to update a call routing processor which uses call routing logic/algorithms that have been predefined by the agency to determine the best location to terminate the inbound call.
Real-time ACD operating status reflects the agency’s current call center operating condition. The call routing processor containing the call routing logic/algorithms is able to use, in subscribing agency-defined combinations, all real-time operating status information collected from the agency’s ACDs.
Sprint will poll the ACD’s for the following:
▪ Number of incoming trunks
▪ Number of incoming trunks available to receive a call
▪ Queue size
▪ Number of calls in queue
▪ Average delay in queue
▪ Number of answering agents logged on
▪ Number of answering agents unavailable to answer a call (e.g., engaged in after-call wrap-up work)
▪ Number of answering agents available to answer a call
▪ Number of answering agents available to answer a call by skill group
▪ Longest available answering agent
▪ Average speed of answer
▪ Average call handling time (includes agent talk time and after-call wrap-up work)
▪ Number of calls abandoned
▪ Average time to abandonment
Network information that will also be available to the Sprint call routing processor:
▪ The dialed toll-free number
▪ The caller’s originating 10 digit number
▪ The caller’s entered digits
Sprint provides call routing logic/algorithms as follows:
▪ Routing to the most idle answering agent
▪ Routing to the most idle answering agent by skill group
▪ Routing based upon expected wait times
▪ Routing based upon least cost.
Sprint’s system approach is capable of processing up to 100 incoming calls per second per toll-free number, without any degradation in performance. Sprint’s call routing processor will not be unavailable for more than one second at a time, and will not be unavailable for more than two seconds in any hour, and will not lose information.
Sprint permits the call routing processor up to 250 milliseconds from receipt of a call query to respond with the destination (or next node). In the event that the 250 milliseconds is exceeded, the call processor will route the call using a default routing plan previously defined by the subscribing agency.
Sprint provides all software and hardware necessary for subscriber agency access, via a graphical user interface, to the call routing processor to permit agency definition of the call routing logic/ algorithms. The subscribing agency is responsible for providing telecommunication connections to the Sprint system.
The feature is offered in two versions:
▪ Sprint-provided and Sprint-based - All necessary software and hardware required for the provision of this feature (e.g., call routing processor, but not the ACD) is provided by Sprint and housed (i.e., physically located) within Sprint’s network.
▪ Sprint-provided and agency-based - All necessary software and hardware required for the provision of this feature (e.g., call routing processor, but not the ACD) is provided by Sprint and housed at the subscribing agency’s designated location.
When housed at the agency’s location, Sprint permits the ability to incorporate a look-up from a subscribing agency database external to the call routing processor using IBM O/S 390 SNA LU6.2 (APPC), TCP/IP, or UDP at the agency’s discretion.
Sprint provides network call routing capabilities based on real-time information obtained from the subscribing agency’s automatic call distributors. Sprint polls all of the subscribing agency’s ACDs every 20 to 60 seconds for real-time ACD operating status information to update a call routing processor. Sprint uses call routing logic/algorithms that have been predefined by the agency, to determine the best location to terminate the inbound call.
G. 18 Agency Based Routing Database
This feature, available 3Q99, permits queries to a subscribing agency provided call routing processor which allows call-by-call routing based upon information returned from the agency’s call routing processor. Sprint provides a call-by-call query to a subscribing agency-provided call routing processor housed at the subscribing agency’s location. The query contains:
▪ The dialed toll-free number
▪ The caller’s originating 10-digit number
▪ The caller’s entered digits
When queried by the Sprint SCP, the agencies call routing processor returns a destination (or next node) instruction along with (at the agency’s discretion) an identification number for the call to be transported by Sprint with the call. Sprint permits a minimum of 250 milliseconds from agency receipt of the query for the agency’s call routing processor to return a routing instruction to the Sprint SCP. If the agency’s routing processor does not respond to the network query in 250 milliseconds, an agency defined default routing shall be used.
Sprint’s SCP is capable of processing up to 100 call inquiries per second per toll-free number without any degradation in performance. Degradation means failure of the call routing processor to return the correct routing response more than one time per every 100,000 incoming calls.
The agency’s routing processor is connected to the Sprint SCP network by dedicated access. The agency is responsible for providing, (3) 56kps private lines to the Sprint system. Sprint is responsible for providing any communications software necessary for the connection. If the subscribing agency is using multiple call routing processors, Sprint will provide a query to the appropriate call routing processor as mutually agreed upon by the subscribing agency and Sprint.
H. 900 Service
The 900 service, in conjunction with Sprint’s Enhanced Services platform, will allow the public to be connected from off-net locations to predesignated users and information-providing systems located at Government designated location(s), to receive information provided by prerecorded messages and in combination with voice response systems or answering agents. Sprint’s 900 services comply with all Bellcore and ANSI standards, primarily Bellcore’s BOC Notes on the LEC Networks, and ANSI ISDN and SS7 standards. 900 service is available only in the United States.
The caller dials a number in the format 1-9XX-NXX-XXXX and the call is routed to Sprint’s Enhanced Services Platform. Using Sprint’s 900 service, interstate, intrastate and international calls can be completed on the same line. Single-line as well as single-number convenience eliminates caller confusion and saves the cost of additional lines.
Sprint will support several formats of information from the call handling equipment:
▪ Passive (e.g., caller listens to pre-recorded message)
▪ Interactive (e.g., caller interacts with message via menu of options, with selections made by pressing designated numbers on a DTMF telephone)
▪ Opinion polls (e.g., call counters for a basic yes or no in response to a question)
▪ Database access (from callers).
Sprint will provide dedicated and switched access connections for the 900 service calls into the SDP. Access connections will connect the terminating POP with the 900 services dedicated on-net terminating locations. Terminating access for Sprint’s 900 services will be delivered directly to the user’s terminal equipment including but not limited to the following types:
▪ single-line telephones;
▪ multi-line key telephone systems;
▪ electromechanical, analog, and digital PBXs;
▪ Centrexes;
▪ data circuit terminating equipment (9.6 kb/s using International Telegraph and Telephone Consultative Committee [CCITT] V.32 modem and 28.8 kb/s using CCITT V.34 modem);
▪ T1 multiplexer;
▪ CCITT Group I, II, and III FAX apparatus;
▪ Automated Call Distributors (ACDs);
▪ automated call-handling equipment (e.g., interactive voice response/transaction processing systems) for providing opinion polling; and
▪ database access and any other equipment typically found or proposed for use on user premises for connection to public and private switched voice networks.
Sprint does not currently offer switched termination of calls on 900 service. Sprint will support the User-To-Network interfaces for 900 service as indicated in Table 3.4.
|UNI Type |Interface Type |Payload Data Rate or |Signaling Type |
| | |Bandwidth | |
|1 |Analog Line: Two-Wire |4 kHz Bandwidth |Line - Loop Signaling |
|2 |Analog Line: Four-Wire |4 kHz Bandwidth |Line - Loop Signaling |
|3 |Analog trunk: Two-Wire |4 kHz Bandwidth |Trunk - Loop Signaling (loop/ground start) |
|4 |Analog Trunk: Four-Wire |4 kHz Bandwidth |Trunk - E&M Signaling |
|5 |Digital Trunk: T1 |Up to 1.536 Mb/s |T1 Robbed-Bit Signaling |
|6 |Digital Trunk: ISDN PRI |Up to 1.536 Mb/s |ITU-TSS Q.931 |
| |(T Reference Point) | | |
|7 |T3 Channelized |Up to 43.008 Mb/s |SS7, T1 Robbed-Bit Signaling |
Table 3.4 900 Service Interfaces
Sprint will accommodate 900 portability when it becomes commercially available. Sprint's 900 service will block all 900 service calls from locations that are unbillable (e.g., pay phones and cellular phones for which ANI is not available).
Sprint will provide dedicated and switched service connections for the 900 service calls into the SDP. Access connections will connect the terminating POP with the 900 service’s dedicated on-net terminating locations.
Sprint will offer network intercept messages, which will alert the calling party if there is a problem. At a minimum, the caller will be alerted via a fast busy signal, if there is network congestion, or a slow pulse busy if the egress circuit is full or in failure. Sprint also has voice intercept messages, which will alert the end user that their call is encountering difficulty, and automatically identify the location of the call (“Your call cannot be completed as dialed, please hang up and try again later, Switch 230.”)
As the responsible organization, Sprint will assume overall responsibility for the assignment, provisioning, testing, and maintenance of all of the Government agency’s 900 services. The duties of the responsible organization require Sprint to ensure that all records are loaded, maintained, and updated in the SMS/900 database on behalf of the Government agencies in a timely and accurate manner. In addition, Sprint will become the primary point of contact for trouble reporting and resolution. The responsible organization functionality is seen as a natural extension of current customer service provided by Sprint.
|Information |Element |
|Standard Information |Title of the report |
| |Date of the report |
| |Period covered by the report |
| |Name of the subscribing agency |
| |900 number |
|900 Number Minimum Information |Number of calls from each area code that dialed the 900 number (i.e., call attempts) |
| |Number of calls that encounter a busy signal (i.e., that are blocked): |
| |In Sprint’s network |
| |At the user’s terminating access |
| |Number of calls offered to the user’s terminating access (i.e., egress trunk group) |
| |Number of calls received at each user’s terminating access |
|900 Number Minimum Information |(10) Number of received calls at each user’s terminating access that resulted in |
| |successful answerback supervision |
| |(11) Average duration of calls answered at each user’s terminating access |
| |(12) Average duration of all calls answered for a given 900 number at all users |
| |terminating access serving the 900 number |
|900 number utilizing Interactive |(13) Number of calls offered to the IA/RA |
|Announcement/Response Arrangement |(14) Number of calls completed (i.e., successfully accessing) to the IA/RA |
|(IA/RA) Minimum Information. |(15) Number and percentage of calls selecting each option |
| |(16) Average duration of calls selecting each option |
| |(17) Number and percentage of calls completed to the IA/RA but abandoned. |
|900 number utilizing Terminating |(18) Number of calls offered to the announcement |
|Announcement or In-Route Announcements|(19) Average duration of calls to each announcement |
|Minimum Information | |
Table 3.5 - 900 Service - Call Status Report
I. Internal Agency Accounting Codes
For calls involving an FTS2001 Calling Card or originating station with a special COS, Sprint will provide the capability to enter additional digits to identify internal agency accounting codes for the call.
Call Detail Reporting (CDR) will reflect all relevant data on the call, including internal agency accounting code digits, which will be charged to the authorization code rather than to the originating station.
Accounting codes enable you to allocate and track calls by division, individual, or any other category desired. Accounting codes are available from on-net switched and dedicated locations, as well as on VPN FONCARD calls.
Accounting codes are always entered after the dialed number using 8 digits in length when calling from dedicated trunks. They can be validated or unvalidated.
• Basic Account Codes are not validated (agencies define the length of the code).
• Advanced Accounting Codes require a specific code be dialed for the call to be processed (agencies define the length of the code and the exact codes to be used).
• Global VPN will offer a 3 digit accounting code.
J. Automated Verification of Authorization Code
Authorization codes are assigned to an individual to provide increased security, usage control and they can be customized. Authorization codes can be entered before or after the dialed number and are always validated. When the user enters an authorization code, Sprint will verify the authorization code prior to service without involving an operator. Codes may be up to five digits and more than one location on a VPN can accept the same authorization codes. Authorization codes are available only from dedicated on-net locations.
K. Suppression of Calling Number Delivery
Sprint’s suppression of calling number delivery is controlled by manual insertion of suppression in Sprint’s database. Each ANI which needs to be suppressed must be given to Sprint for incorporation. This applies to trunk groups, dedicated location ANIs, switched access locations or calling card services.
3.1.2 Circuit Switched Data Service (CSDS)
Circuit Switched Data Service Description
The following differentiators illustrate some of the advantages Sprint’s Circuit Switched Data Service (CSDS) offer the Government:
▪ Only Sprint provides full differentiation between ISDN voice and data calls on one, convenient invoice.
▪ Sprint’s CSDS is provided over the most reliable network in the industry.
▪ Sprints CSDS received the highest scores taking the top spot across the entire CSDS category in Data Communications magazine’s 1997 annual user’s survey.
▪ Sprint can provide and maintain CPE for the Government for switched access.
Circuit Switched Digital Services will enable end-users to dial-up 56 or 64 kbps increments of digital bandwidth in addition to voice. CSDS is available for both outbound as well as toll-free service.
Sprint’s Circuit Switched Digital Services are preferred by customers for their:
▪ Cost Control
▪ Efficiency
▪ Flexibility
▪ Availability
▪ Superior Network Platform
Circuit Switched Digital Services are affordable because they are measured and timed services. The Government pays only for what it uses; it has complete cost control. CSDS provides efficiency by being available in either 56 or 64 Kbps increments of digital protocol-insensitive, bandwidth, so it is perfect for transporting any type of data as well as voice. CSDS is flexible, because calls are set up in the same way as analog voice services. The Government will have the advantage of saving time and money when using Sprint’s CSDS. When operating videoconferencing (VTC) facilities, transferring/sharing data between computers, or making a basic voice call, CSDS can provide an efficient transport method, often more efficient than traditional private lines, which can be an expensive solution unless point-to-point usage is high. CSDS is often more efficient for small users, or for users who need connectivity with several points with relatively light usage.
The two most well known features of CSDS are:
▪ It functions like a private line when the connection is established
▪ The call is set up and billed like a normal telephone call.
So, when usage requirements, network configuration, and bandwidth requirements are analyzed, CSDS can be a very cost-effective service.
CSDS offers switched callers true digital communications in increments of 56Kbps or 64 Kbps, depending on the type of access selected. The Government will have the capability to control costs by choosing the best network configuration, which consists of access and transport. Access facilities can be Sprint-provided ISDN PRI or T1, LEC-provided ISDN PRI or BRI, or LEC SW56. Sprint’s transport will accommodate the bandwidth necessary (Nx56/ 64 kbps) for a wide range of applications. If the Government needs more bandwidth than a single 56/64 Kbps call, the Government can use a variety of Sprint CPE. ISDN terminal adapters/NT support BRI transmission, while Sprint’s inverse multiplexers can be used to aggregate channels and dial up Nx56/64 kbps bandwidth up to, or greater than, a full T1.
Circuit Switched Digital Services features and benefits include:
▪ Cost efficiencies
▪ High-speed digital connectivity that provides accurate data and voice transmission and minimizes minutes of usage
▪ Easy internal cost management
▪ Cost control enhanced by the use of accounting codes for efficient allocation of costs and bill back capabilities
▪ Inexpensive access
▪ LEC SW56 and LEC BRI service that provides switched access at reasonable costs.
▪ Maximum application flexibility.
Sprint will meet the Government’s CSDS access requirements by providing a synchronous, fully duplex, totally digital, SDP-to-LEC POP, which services data rates up to DS3, including integral multiples of DS0 or DS1 data rates to on-net and off-net locations. Sprint will support the requirements for calls that terminate at off-net locations. The bandwidth requested by the originating on-net location will be limited to the bandwidth limitations in the PSN between the terminating POP and the terminating location. Figure 3-5 illustrates the architectural connection between a LEC and Sprint when Sprint has been selected as the interexchange carrier.
[pic]
Figure 3.5 - Sprint /LEC Architecture Connection
Sprint will provide the Government with CSDS that meets the ANSI X3.189, ITU E.721, and all applicable Bellcore and ANSI standards for digital transmission including SONET; and ITU-TSS and EIA standards for Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) interfaces.
Sprint will provide dedicated and switched originating and/or terminating access connections for CSDS calls. Originating access connections will connect CSDS on-net originating locations with the associated POPs. Terminating access connections will connect the terminating POPs with CSDS on-net terminating locations.
Sprint will provide CSDS access directly to the user’s terminal equipment, including but not limited to the following types: DTE (e.g., workstation, host computer, PC, video codec, Group 4 FAX, and other communicating office equipment, digital PBX or intelligent multiplexer.
Sprint will provide network-derived clocking to the DTE or PBX/multiplexer (MUX) at the SDP. Once a call has been established, all bit sequences transmitted by the DTE will be transported as data/bit transparent, maintaining data/bit sequence integrity.
4 Switched Data Service
Sprint is a leader in providing data communications services to companies and Government agencies worldwide. This leadership began over 25 years ago with packet switching services, and has steadily evolved through Frame Relay and into the Internet Protocol and Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) services which lead the industry today. The Government has experienced the benefits of efficient use of resources, economy of procurement, a common security infrastructure, and a common platform to support cross-agency applications such as E-Mail and electronic commerce under the FTS2000 contract with Sprint. Sprint's Switched Data services will continue to provide expanded benefits under the FTS2001 services being described in this section.
1 Packet Switched Services (PSS)
Sprint provides the world’s largest Packet Switched Service (PSS). Sprint's FTS2001 X.25 will continue to provide the Government with an extremely cost effective, reliable, and flexible method of connecting geographically dispersed locations.
1 Domestic and International Service Coverage
Sprint’s PSS is accessible from over 500 locations domestically and more than 300 locations internationally. Extensive local coverage provides end users a local phone number to access the network regardless of where they are located. Multiple dial access speeds from 300 bps to 14.4 kbps are available. The asynchronous dial facilities provide advanced speeds, error correction, and data compression technologies designed into our access rotaries.
Using a terminal, PC, or host computer equipped with an asynchronous modem, a user dials the closest local access center, establishes a connection with the data network, and then sends and receives data with other devices connected to the network. For remote locations, a toll free dial-in service offers ubiquitous coverage of the United States. The toll free dial-in service can also provide users with their own personalized toll-free number to access the X.25 network from every local exchange in the continental United States and Alaska and Hawaii which supports 800 numbers. Thus, users are always within reach of the network. Access to foreign networks is available from over 100 countries worldwide. These same features are available when dialing an X.25 node from an international location, as well.
2 Packet Switched Service Access Requirements
Sprint's PSS will provide the Government a packet-switched, connection-oriented, data transmission service at data rates up to DSO. In addition, Sprints service is based on the International Telecommunication Standards (ITU)-TSS X.25 protocol, which allows Sprint to offer even higher data rates up to 256 Kbps.
Sprint will provide dedicated access and internetworked originating and/or terminating access connections for PSS calls. Originating access connections will connect PSS on-net originating locations with the associated POP. Terminating access connections will connect the terminating POP with PSS on-net terminating locations.
Sprint's PSS access will be delivered directly to the users terminal equipment. Sprint’s PSS will support packet-mode DTEs or non-packet mode DTEs via an X.25 Packet Assembler/Disassembler (PAD), capable interfacing between the non-packet DTE and the network. Devices such as PBXs, channel banks, routers, and multiplexers will be supported on the network. Multiprotocol environments are also supported, including asynchronous ASCII, IBM BSC, IBM SDLC, and Unisys Poll Select protocols, through the use of PAD devices, capable of encapsulating the non-X.25 protocol into an X.25 packet.
3.2.1.3 Additional Capabilities
Sprint will also provide internetworked access arrangements and support the following enhanced PSS capabilities:
▪ Sprint’s PSS will provide the capability to send and receive data by setting up Permanent Virtual Circuits (PVCs) and Switched Virtual Circuits (SVCs) via an X.25 Packet Assembler/Disassembler (PAD) hardware or software located at the Government’s Service Delivery Point (SDP). PAD functionality can be provided by a dedicated PAD device or by software running on a Personal Computer (PC). The PAD hardware/software provides the interface between a Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) and the X.25 network as defined in the ITU-TSS Recommendations X.3, X.28, and X.29.
▪ Sprint developed the X.25 protocol standards in conjunction with the CCITT, now known as the ITU international standards setting organization. Within the standards are set forth the use of ITU-TSS X.121 numbering plan as the standard for network addressing. Sprint will support the X.121 numbering plan and utilizes the numbering plan internally within and to all DTE devices connected to the network.
▪ The X.25 network Access Switches will fully support PSS fully supports all features and capabilities, known as X.25 User Facilities, on a Virtual Circuit, as specified in FIPS-PUB 100-1. Facilities may for a Virtual Circuit are may be established by several methods.
– Facilities may be subscribed to on a per call basis and are established between the calling DTE and the X.25 Access Switch within the network during the X.25 call setup procedure.
– Facilities may be pre-subscribed by hard-coding the Facility at the X.25 Access Switch.
– Facilities may be negotiated between the two end DTE devices during the call setup procedure.
3.2.2 Frame Relay Service (FRS)
Sprint's Frame Relay Service (FRS) is the flagship data product for commercial and Government customers today. The network is a multiprotocol packet-based data communication network providing high-speed, protocol-transparent switched connectivity. The network architecture is engineered for high performance, flexibility, and reliability. As one of the world’s largest data network providers and with over 20 years of experience, Sprint is well positioned to provide the Government with reliable worldwide telecommunications.
The latest technological developments are incorporated into the design of Sprint’s core infrastructure and offered as enhanced services to customers including the Government Agencies. Sprint’s core infrastructure is based on a 100 percent digital fiber optic network with a SONET transport infrastructure, and an ATM backbone.
3.2.2.1 Frame Relay Service Access Requirements
Sprint’s FRS network is a frame-switched, connection-oriented, data communications network providing protocol transparent connectivity for LANs or SNA networks. The Frame Relay Service for FTS2001 will provide the data transmission service at data rates up to DS-3. Access rates up to DS-3 are available.
The frame relay network will support a variety of frame sizes including 64, 128, 256, 512, 1024, 2048, and 4096 byte frame sizes. Committed Information Rate (CIR) on Sprint’s FRS will be provided from 0 to 1024 Kbps. For ports above 1536 Kbps, PVCs up to 4,096 Kbps are available. CIR is assigned on a PVC basis and will fall back to the smaller of the subscribed CIR value on a point-to-point connection provided by the PVC. Both LAN and SNA PVCs are supported.
Sprint-provided FRS access connections will connect FRS on-net originating locations and associated POP with switches that will provide dedicated access arrangements for terminating and originating frame relay virtual circuits. These switches are directly connected to POPs that support terminating and originating arrangements.
Terminating FRS access connections will connect FRS on-net terminating locations and associated POP with switches that will provide dedicated and optionally internetworked access arrangements for terminating and originating frame relay virtual circuits. These switches are directly connected to POPs that support terminating and originating arrangements.
Sprint will deliver FRS access, at the SDP, directly to the user's terminal equipment including intelligent multiplexing/switching devices, Local Area Network (LAN) routers, and DTE host computers. The Government can supply and maintain the frame relay capable device or Sprint can offer value added services with FRS which includes complete management of the frame relay network, including the FRAD or Router, called Managed FRAD Services and Managed Network Services (MNS), respectively. Sprint’s FRS will support non-frame protocol and non-frame capable devices such as asynchronous ASCII, IBM BSC, IBM SNA/SDLC, Unisys Poll/Select, and IEEE 802 LAN via routers or FRADS at the SDP.
The managed network solution consists of hardware, software, transmission services, and comprehensive design and management services. A global managed network, implemented as a logical subnetwork which shares Sprint’s fundamental transmission infrastructure, is composed of:
• A network of FRADs or routers that are Sprint-provided, customer-provided, or a mixture of both.
• Sprint-provided access and interconnecting paths linking all elements of the network.
• Sprint-provided network design including addressing, namespace plan, routing protocol, customer filtering and traffic prioritization.
Comprehensive management services that include 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, real-time network monitoring using a dedicated management link, fault management, configuration management, software management, performance management and monthly service reviews.
Multi-point connections will be supported on FRS by establishing multiple PVCs. A FRAD or router device will be required if the SDP does not support frame relay capable device. The CIR will fall back to the smallest of the subscribed value of all of the connected points for the duration of the call connection.
One of the key differentiators of Sprint’s frame relay offering is that our network instantaneously allocates bandwidth when users’ applications burst up to their access channel rates. Sprint’s approach results in consistently high throughput and minimal delay for all user data.
Sprint switches employ a unique “fast forward” bandwidth management technique in allocating trunk capacity. This technique allows Sprint to offer significant performance advantages because our switches allocate bandwidth instantaneously and fast forward all user data across the network as rapidly as possible. Our network is engineered and monitored to assure sufficient capacity for these data bursts. The bottom line impact is better performance and lower network delay for all users. This is in contrast to some other implementations that support a graduate increase in capacity allocation above CIR, even when network capacity is available.
3.2.2.2 Features
Sprint’s FRS dedicated access implementation utilizes standard transmission framing formats, such as channelized T1 with ESF framing, and will not add overhead information at the physical layer that can potentially add transmission delay at the access. Therefore, the delay on dedicated access for FRS will not exceed the delay caused by the access line speed. Sprint’s FRS access availability will be at least 99.8 percent.
3.2.2.3 Optimizing Cost Effectiveness
Sprint’s FRS provides dedicated and circuit switched access to the network via FRS POPs located throughout the US. For dedicated or circuit switched access a CSU/DSU or ISDN modem device is required at the SDP. As mentioned earlier a FRAD or router is required at the SDP to support non-frame relay capable devices. The following data rates will be supported on Sprint’s FRS:
▪ 56/64 kbps to T1 – requires a CSU/DSU at the SDP
Sprint FRS will support frame relay protocol and Sprint’s FRS will support non-frame relay protocols such as Asynchronous ASCII, IBM BSC, IBM SNA/SDLC, Unisys Poll/Select, IP, or IEEE 802 LAN protocols through the use of a router or FRAD at the SDP.
3.2.3 Internet Protocol Service (IPS)
Sprint is currently the largest provider of Internet services in the world and has been instrumental in the Internet’s development from the beginning. Since 1991, Sprint has served the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) as its International Connections Manager, responsible for implementing and operating a TCP/IP-based router network service that connected the U.S.-based NSFnet with research and education networks overseas. Still in operation today, Sprint’s international network has joined the international network of Global One to include Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Denmark, France, Guam, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Russia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and United Kingdom.
Sprint’s suite of Internet Protocol (IP) based services provides the Government global connectivity of LANs, hosts, and remote users. These services support all the Internet Protocol Internetworking Service (IPS) requirements including dedicated and modem dial-in access to the global internet, Virtual Private Networks (VPN) or Extranets, and firewall security services. Sprint’s suite of IP Services is comprised of:
▪ Internet Service – Provides access to the global Internet
▪ Intranet Service – Establishes Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) or Extranets
▪ Security Services – Provides comprehensive firewall security services
3.2.3.1 Sprint’s Internet Service
Sprint’s Internet Service offered under FTS2001 will provide access to the global internet with a high speed IP over SONET, router based infrastructure that supports a significant portion of the global internet traffic. Sprint’s Internet Service network has nodes located throughout the United States and connects to all global internet exchange points, called Network Access Points (NAPs).
The network architecture for Sprint’s Internet Service network is two tiered, with an Access Layer and Transport Layer. The Access Layer provides users access to the global internet, through Dedicated Access Facilities (DAF) ranging from 56/64 kbps to OC-12 (622 Mbps) data rates. The Transport Layer is a high speed SONET backbone infrastructure that interconnects all Access Layer nodes and transports traffic across the Internet Service network. The Access Layer consists of routers, called Access Concentration Routers (ACR), that provide DAF connectivity between the user and the network. The ACRs are linked to the backbone, or the Transport Layer, with multiple OC3 links to multiple backbone node giga-switch routers.
The Transport Layer giga-switch routers in the backbone are interconnected by Sprint’s SONET ring network. The links between Transport Layer nodes are SONET OC3 or OC12 rings. Therefore, with Sprint’s implementation of SONET technology, the network is able to route around failures almost instantaneously to provide superior survivability and reliability.
3.2.3.2 Sprint’s Intranet Service
The Intranet Service is Sprint’s unique solution to establishing VPNs or Extranets for information sensitive and mission critical IP applications. Furthermore, with Sprint’s IP Services a user can connect to a host or LAN that is attached to the global internet or to the Government’s VPN via a local or toll free telephone number from anywhere in the continental United States and Canada.
Sprint’s Intranet Services network is physically separate from the global internet providing remote dial-in connectivity for mobile users and VPN services with enhanced security, reliability, and performance. The architecture of this network is similar to the Internet Service network with two tiers called the Access Layer and the Transport Layer. The Access Layer provides dial-in and dedicated access to the Intranet and the Transport Layer establishes the core, or backbone infrastructure of this network.
The Intranet dial-in facilities allow users to dial-in within the continental United Sates to access a host or LAN connected to the global internet, Sprint’s Intranet, and Sprint’s frame relay network. A user with a PC and a modem can dial a local ten-digit number, toll free number, or ISDN BRI connection, and establish a PPP connection to an Intranet dial-in facility. All calls are validated, through an authentication process consisting of a User ID and Password combination administered by the Intranet Security Server. Once the call is authenticated and a valid connection is established to the Intranet, the user may access any host or LAN attached to the Intranet network or the global internet.
Furthermore, the dial-in user is able to access LANs or hosts on the frame relay network through a gateway that connects the Intranet with the frame relay network. The Intranet dial-in access facility will route all calls either to the Intranet or the global internet based on the User Name and Password combination. It is the User Name/Password that identifies a user’s destination as an internet connection or and Intranet connection.
3.2.3.3 Sprint’s Security Services
Recognizing the Government’s concerns for security, Sprint provides a comprehensive security solution that protects the Government’s computer systems and decreases vulnerability to unauthorized users. In addition, Sprint’s Security Services includes a complete IP Security Services consisting of design, implementation, maintenance, and dedicated 7x24 hour security system monitoring.
Sprint’s Security Services consist of the following:
▪ Data Network Security Presentations and Consulting. Sprint’s dedicated data network security staff, experienced in the technical and investigative aspects of the IP security, are available to discuss security requirements and issues as well as develop a detailed data network security design.
▪ 24-Hour Investigative and Security Support. Security support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to address reported security breaches, attempted breaches, and other security concerns. A dedicated data network security group is ready to assist at the Government’s request.
▪ Liaison, Law Enforcement, and Prosecution Assistance. Sprint will serve as a liaison between the Government, other data network providers, and law enforcement agencies, when appropriate. At the Government’s request, Sprint will provide expert technical witness services when needed.
▪ Dedicated security support, 24 hours a day, every day. One of Sprint’s experienced regionally located Security Support Managers may be assigned to assist with security issues any time of the day.
▪ Access Management Services. Sprint will configure initial basic access lists on all Sprint provided customer premise routers managed by Sprint. Access lists can be used as a first line of defense from unauthorized data network traffic from entering or leaving the FTS2001 network. The level of access list configuration is limited to specific protocols and provides very basic levels of protection. This technology should be coupled with Sprint’s other security solutions to provide a full line of defense.
▪ Sprint Managed Security Solutions. Sprint offers a complete line of managed IP Security Services that include, firewalls, strong authentication, encryption, and VPN services. The Sprint Managed Security Solution contains the following services:
– Design and Consulting Support – Sprint will work with the Government to identify and document all network security requirements and concerns. Sprint will then provide a detailed security design based upon these requirements.
– Implementation Support – Sprint will fully install and configure the security systems identified in the design into the FTS2001 network and provide acceptance testing.
– Monitoring & Management – Sprint will provide real-time, proactive monitoring and management of all security systems 7 x 24 with our dedicated network security operations group. Sprint will provide real-time notification to the Government of any system or security issues.
– Security Reporting – Sprint will provide monthly security system activity reports which will provide a detailed listing of all data traffic traversing through the Sprint provided security systems.
3.2.4 Asynchronous Transfer Mode Service
Sprint’s ATM service, commercially available since August 1993, provides an economical solution for customers requiring large bandwidth while offering a smooth migration path for existing services. Sprint’s early, real-world broadband experience provides us and our customers with a significant competitive advantage for many years to come. Sprint has implemented more domestic ATM networks than any other carrier. The Government will benefit from our experience and market leadership as it receives our superior ATM service for FTS2001's ATM service.
3.2.4.1 Customer Network Management
To provide customers with the service visibility they need to manage their networks, Sprint’s ATM network will deliver status information to a customer’s SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) Network Management system via ATM Proxy Agent MIBs (Management Information Base).
The proxy agent MIBs will allow Sprint ATM customers to view service affecting data such as the status of Virtual Paths, Virtual Channels, T3 and ATM layer performance objects and fault information. A built in firewall will prohibit the end-user from viewing any other end-user's ATM network. The MIBs will be accessible via 56 Kbps Private Line service from the customer’s premise to the ATM/MS host system. The customer will have access to the MIB for each ATM switch/mux platform in the network. Access security to each MIB partition will be provided by the application software checking for the correct SNMP community name string and IP address. Multiple sites of the same customer may access this partition.
To the ATM network user, the system will appear as a Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) Agent. All identified alarms and event messages will be exported to the customer's MIB, in a near real time basis. The customer will be able to see the facility performance of their T3 and ATM layers for both ingress and egress circuits.
Initially, two Network Management services will be available: Fault Management and Performance Plus Management. Fault Management provides automatic delivery of network alarms or traps associated with a customer’s service.
▪ Performance Plus Management allows the customer system to request configuration, performance and administration information for their network.
▪ An integral component considered in the development of the ATM/MS is the support of a customer accessible SNMP Proxy Agent capable of providing our customers status and configuration information of their ATM UNI circuits.
Some of the MIB elements available to the Customer are:
Virtual Channel Configuration
|Output Virtual Path Identifier (VPI) |Unknown VPI/VCI Cells by DS3 port |
|Output Virtual Channel Identifier (VCI) |Creation Time of VP/VC |
|Transmitted Cells by VPI/VCI |Termination Time of VP/VC |
|Congestion Cells Dropped by VPI/VCI |DS3 Red Alarm (loss of signal) |
|DS3 Port Index |DS3 Yellow Alarm |
|Received Cells by DS3 Port |DS3 AIS Alarm |
|Header Error Cells by DS3 Port |DS3 Invalid VPI/VCI Alarm |
•Virtual Path Configuration
|Output Virtual Path (VPI) |Creation Time |
|Transmitted Cells by VPI |Termination Time |
|Congestion Cells Dropped by VPI |DS3 Red Alarm (loss of signal) |
|DS3 Port Index |DS3 Yellow Alarm |
|Received Cells by DS3 port |DS3 AIS Alarm |
|Header error Cells by DS3 port |DS3 invalid VPI/VCI Alarm. |
|Unknown VP/VCI Cells by DS3 port | |
The Customer ATM Proxy Agent MIB will be bi-annually enhanced to support new ATM features and objects.
3.2.4.2 Enterprise Network
In order to maintain cost-effectiveness, the Government must constantly explore ways to reduce expenses while continuing to improve productivity Government customers adopting ATM within their networks may be broken into three broad profiles, each with their own unique applications and drivers: those requiring new applications, those experiencing constrained backbone networks, and those looking to form a consolidated enterprise network. ATM allows consolidation of multiple private and public networks of a large Government location for cost efficiency, ease of management, and support of new applications. ATM represents the next networking paradigm.
A Government agency with a large telecommunications infrastructure legacy that is primarily private, but includes contracts for public voice and some public data services, would benefit from a move to ATM. The Government is likely interested in downsizing its telecom department. The current internal user base ranges from headquarters to hundreds of remote sites. Applications can range from simple voice services to advanced video and imaging. Data networks include SNA, router, and some public services.
Sprint’s ATMS will support bandwidth-on-demand capability by allocating incremental bandwidth, up to the Peak Cell Rate (PCR) in response to a users demand for additional bandwidth.
Sprint’s ATMS will support the following connection types for PVCs:
|Type |Speed |
|CBR |64 Kbps to 3 Mbps in 64 Kbps increments |
| |3 Mbps to 126 Mbps in 1 Mb increments |
|VBR |64 Kbps to 3 Mbps in 64 Kbps increments |
| |3 Mbps to 94 Mbps in 1 Mb increments |
|UBR |1.5, 3.0, 4.6, 6.1, 7.7, 9.2, 10.8, 12.2, 45, OC-3 |
3.2.4.3 Point-to-Point
Point-to-Point connectivity across our ATM network, will allow dedicated connection between two points. Each PVC is made up of a series of connected virtual paths (VPs) or virtual channels (VCs). Each VP/VC has an address of local significance at the ATM User-Network-Interface (UNI). This address is known as the VPI/VCI address where VPI refers to the virtual path identifier and VCI to the virtual channel identifier in the ATM addressing field of the 5-byte ATM cell header. VPI/VCIs identify the VPs and VCs that ATM cells will take as they are routed across the network.
A VC is a connection between two communicating ATM entities. Virtual paths are a group of VCs carried between two points. While the virtual channels are associated with a VP, they are not unbundled or processed in any way. The cell sequence of each virtual channel is still preserved through the VP (cells are delivered in order), and VCs within a VP must all be of the same service category as the VP.
3.2.4.4 Point-to-Multipoint
Point-to-Multipoint connectivity across our ATM network, will allow connection of three or more points. Sprint understands that for point-to-multipoint connections the SCR would fallback to the smallest subscribed SCR value of all the connected points for the duration of the call/connection. Sprint’s ATMS will support at least two priority levels for packet Virtual Circuits (VCs). Sprint understands that a higher priority VC will receive preferential treatment over a lower priority VC in terms of delay and guarantee of delivery during network congestion.
|UNI Type |Interface Type |Payload Data Rate* |Protocol Type** |
|1 |ITU-TSS V.35 |Up to 1.536 Mb/s |AAL Type 5 |
|2 |EIA RS-449 |Up to 1.536 Mb/s |AAL Type 5 |
|3 |EIA RS-530 |Up to 1.536 Mb/s |AAL Type 5 |
|4 |DS1 |Up to 1.536 Mb/s |AAL Type 1 |
|5 |DS1 |Up to 1.536 Mb/s |AAL Type 5 |
|6 |DS3 |Up to 43.008 Mb/s |AAL Type 1 |
|7 |DS3 |Up to 43.008 Mb/s |AAL Type 5 |
|8 |DS1 |Up to 1.536 Mb/s |Native Mode |
|9 |DS3 |Up to 43.008 Mb/s |Native Mode |
|10 |HSSI |DS1x2 |HSSI |
|11 |HSSI |DS1x3 |HSSI |
|12 |HSSI |DS1x4 |HSSI |
|13 |HSSI |DS1x5 |HSSI |
|14 |HSSI |DS1x6 |HSSI |
|15 |HSSI |DS1x7 |HSSI |
|16 |HSSI |DS1x8 |HSSI |
|17 |HSSI |T3 |HSSI |
|18 |COAX |T3 |Native Mode |
|19 |OC-3 |155 Mb/s |Native Mode |
|The payload data rate above includes cell overhead. |
|**When AAL type is specified, the contractor shall provide the ATM adaptation function. For Native Mode, the user traffic type will |
|be AAL Type1 or AAL Type 5. |
Table 3.7 User-to-Network Interfaces for Asynchronous Transfer Mode Service
3.3 Dedicated Transmission Service (DTS)
DTS is a non-switched, dedicated transmission path between two or more locations which is billed at a fixed monthly charge. DTS supports voice and data services ranging from low-speed analog to high-speed digital transmission and video communications.
DTS is available throughout most of the continental United States. Digital access, provided by LECs and necessary to provision digital DTS, is not universally available in all telephone end offices. Many LECs are undertaking extensive digital hubbing expansion. DTS is available where digital access lines are implemented by the LECs. DTS is also available between the United States and International locations.
DTS is available in two configurations, point-to-point connecting two FTS2001 locations or multipoint/multidrop connecting from three to 99 locations.
3.3.1 Digital Signal Zero Service (DS-O)
DS-0 service provides a 64 Kbps dedicated digital facility for voice or data communications.
DS-0 service options are:
▪ Subrate DS-0 - A single, 4Khz DS-0 circuit operating digitally through the Sprint network.
▪ Clear Channel DS-0 - A digital circuit that transmits at the CCITT international standard of 64 Kbps.
3.3.2 Digital Data Service (DDS)
DDS provides dedicated digital facilities capable of supporting synchronous data transmission at speeds ranging from 9.6 Kbps to 56 Kbps.
DDS service options:
▪ 9.6 Kbps Digital access and transport;
▪ 56 Kbps Digital access and transport.
3.3.3 Digital Signal One Service (DS-1)
DS-1 service is a 1.544 Mbps full duplex digital signal carried on a T-1 facility. It is the equivalent of 24 DS-0 channels. DS-1 service uses digital access and is most frequently used for high-speed, high-quality voice, data and video applications.
DS-1 service is ideally suited for applications requiring large volume or high-speed transmissions. It can be offered in a channelized or unchannelized configuration.
3.3.4 Fractional T-1 Service (FT-1)
Fractional T-1 (FT-1) service is offered as an alternative to a full T-1 facility. FT-1 is made up of a contiguous set (from two to 12) of 56/64 Kbps time slots transmitting at one of 11 different speeds. FT-1 service uses SDIS T-1 access and is most frequently used for high-speed, high-quality voice, data and video applications.
FT-1 service offers 112 Kbps and 768 Kbps Digital access and transport.
3.3.5 Digital Signal Three Service (DS-3)
DS-3 service is a 44.736 Mbps full duplex digital signal carried on an unchannelized facility. It is the equivalent of 672 DS-0 channels. DS-3 service uses digital access and is most frequently used for high-speed, high-quality voice, data and video applications.
DS-3 service is ideally suited for applications requiring large volume or high-speed transmissions.
6. NxT-1 Service
NxT-1 service is offered as an alternative to a full T3 facility. NxT-1 aggregates three, four, five, or seven adjacent T1 channels of 1.544 Mbps. NxT-1 service uses NxT-1 access and is most frequently used for high-speed, high-quality voice, data and video applications.
NxT-1 service is ideally suited for applications requiring medium volumes or high-speed transmissions.
7. E1 Service
E1 service is a 2.048 Mbps full duplex digital signal carried on a single facility. It is the equivalent of 30 DS0 channels. E1 service uses digital access and is most frequently used for high-speed, high-quality voice, data and video applications.
E1 service is ideally suited for applications requiring large volumes or high-speed transmissions. It can be offered in a channelized or unchannelized configuration. One end must terminate in the United States.
3.3.68 T-1 Diversity
Diversity may be appropriate when criticality of a facility requires a degree of survivability above that possible from a single route. Local distribution facilities can be constructed between the user's SDP and the Sprint point of presence (POP) by the LEC or an Alternate Access Vendor (AAV).
Diversity between DTS routes can be assured within the Sprint network at the DS-1 level. At this time assured diversity on an individual DS-0 circuit cannot be provided.
3.4 Value-Added Service (VAS)
3.4.1 Video Teleconferencing Transmission Service
The infrastructure that currently supports the Sprint Video Service Bureau (VSB) is designed to optimize efficiencies and provide full multipoint bridging redundancy. The Sprint VSB is a Digital Cross-Connect Switch (DCS)-based overlay network that is connected to the Sprint’s robust and all-digital fiber optic wide area backbone network. Building on this architecture, Sprint provides a wide range of value-added services to enhance the Government’s videoconferencing experience. The Sprint VSB network is provided over a feature-rich and flexible videoconference bridging infrastructure.
Co-located with other Sprint transmission facilities at Sprint points-of-presence (POPs) are the DCSs that are dedicated to supporting point-to-point and multipoint video bridging capabilities. The Government codecs and channel Service units (CSUs) at user participating locations will be connected to the Sprint video network via the Local Exchange Carriers’ (LECs) networks and will be cross-connected at the local Sprint serving POPs to the Sprint VSB in Atlanta, Georgia through the dedicated video DCSs. In Atlanta, the co-located Monitor Control Unit (MCU) will make the appropriate reservations, plus control, and monitor the established point-to-point and multipoint video bridges.
In addition, the proposed Sprint VSB solution is built upon a reliable transport infrastructure of Sprint Circuit Switched Data Services (CSDS) and Dedicated Transmission Services (DTS). These products provide customers with end-to-end, digital, dedicated, and circuit-switched communications. CSDS and DTS utilize the full strength of Sprint’s technical and support organizations to ensure consistent, high-quality network performance.
The Sprint Program Management Office (PMO) has access to monthly video utilization charts for inclusion in the program reviews. The information is provided by video operations staff.
The Government agency users can also maintain their own conference quality report through Meeting Manager Plus. Meeting Management Plus is Sprint’s own custom-developed Windows-based software tool that is used to generate management reports. After the completion of each conference, agency users can record whether it was successful or unsuccessful and why.
3.4.1.1 Customer Support Operations Center
Sprint’s Customer Support Operations Center (CSOC) is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to provide our customers with a single point-of-contact for technical support.
Although controlling videoconferencing equipment has become easier, there are still occasions when users require assistance. The CSOC can help in transmitting graphics or configuring a VCR to record or play, help users understand video technology so they can have a productive meeting, and explain how a multipoint conference switches or what the best colors are to wear for a videoconference.
CSOC technicians are also involved in conferences with value-added services, such as CODEC conversions and multipoints. CSOC technicians are assigned to every value-added conference to confirm that all participating sites connect successfully and to ensure the quality of the conference to all participants.
Sprint also has its own engineering staff to work escalated issues where equipment or networks troubles cannot be corrected via normal trouble resolution processes. The engineering staff works directly with engineers at video equipment manufacturers and network equipment manufacturers as well as network engineers to identify and resolve issues affecting the quality of videoconferences. The engineering staff has an average of 10 years experience in videoconferencing.
3.4.1.2 Video Features
The proposed solution reflects Sprint’s strong commitment to provide the Government with a videoconferencing network that meets the following criteria:
▪ Feature-rich, flexible videoconference bridging infrastructure. The proposed solution allows the Government to respond quickly to changes in the business environment by providing one of the most comprehensive videoconferencing product portfolios in the industry.
▪ Guaranteed high levels of service and support. Sprint is dedicated to providing proactive, high quality service and support. Sprint will work with the Government to ensure an optimized network and continuous support.
Sprint leads the industry with our network technology for videoconferencing. Sprint was the first carrier to offer carrier-independent conferencing services, allowing connections between sites that may not be able to dial one another directly. Sprint VTS is the solution that enables other carriers and service bureaus to eliminate the technology boundaries and connectivity issues that limit communications. Sprint Video Service Bureau will provide value-added services supporting point-to-point and multipoint video bridging between FTS2001 on-net and off-net locations via CSDS and DTS.
Sprint’s Video Bureau Service allows the Government to access a full spectrum of conference features for group and personal conferencing without investing in additional equipment or adding staff. Sprint is capable of handling same-day, real-time conference requests, as well as scheduling future reservations up to twelve months in advance.
Standard features of Sprint’s Video Service Bureau include:
▪ Multipoint Conferencing
– 60 plus multi-sites
– Continuous presence bridging
– T120 data collaboration
▪ Algorithm and Speed Conversions
▪ Network Gateway Connections
▪ Multiple Standards Support
▪ Access to over 15,000 Public and Private Rooms
▪ Audio Add-on
▪ Conference Recording
▪ Out-dial
▪ Call Launch
▪ Co-located Access
▪ Private Bridge
▪ Coding and video format conversions
▪ Rate adaptation
4 Managed Network Services
Managed Network Service is a set of services that when provided in conjunction with FTS2001 transport, will provide the Government the ability to “outsource” their network management. Sprint’s MNS will provide the Government with seamless connectivity to all of their network environments, through complete WAN design, optimization, implementation, and management of the networking solution.
MNS is comprised of four separate products:
• MNS for Routers
• MNS for ATM
• Managed Hubs
• Managed Implementation
This value-added service does not include applications. This service is the management of transport and devices located at customer premise.
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