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Full SS7 Link Support
Hosted on a NEBS-certified computing platform, the ICSG provides T1 or V.35 interfaces, and supports the following links to the SS7 network:
- A (access) link: connects two signaling endpoints (SSPs or SCPs) to STPs and delivers signaling between the two endpoints.
- E (extended) link: connects SSPs to secondary STPs or to another LATA or sub-LATA. This provides backup connectivity if the primary A-link connection fails.
- F (fully associated) link: connects two signaling endpoints (SSps or SCPs) with not STPs involved.
Scalable Network Architecture
Within an SS7 network, the ICSG signaling gateway, ICSP service
proxy and ICS2000 media gateway combine to perform the function
of a Service Switching Point (SSP). The ICSG consolidates A-link
traffic for multiple ICS2000 media gateways within a virtual switch
configuration via IP connections to packet-based equipment or F-links
to MTP-linked SSPs. This allows sharing of number pools across the
domain of switches registered on the ICSG signaling gateway without
expensive SCP queries on "local" numbers. Link consolidation
also supports distribution of ISUP trunk groups among the switches
in the ICSG domain.
The ICSG includes an SS7 stack with full MTP layers. MTP level 1 and 2 are implemented in hardware, while MTP level 3 and all upper layers (TCAP, SCCP) are implemented in software on the ICSG signaling gateway.
In a typical network configuration, the ICSG interconnects our network components with legacy
SS7 networks to leverage ISUP and TCAP/AIN based services. The ICSG uses 10/100 Ethernet
ports for
communications with the ICSP service proxy and ICS2000 media gateway,
for which it provides SS7 gateway support. The Ethernet connectivity
also provides the management access for configuring and monitoring
the operation of the ICSG.
Carrier-Grade Availability
Redundant ICSG signaling gateways protect processing elements and ensure minimal impact on the network in the event of an isolated fault. For redundancy, two ICSGs operate in duplex mode in an SS7 network, while load-balanced A-links provide equal load sharing of traffic among all links within a combined linkset.
OAM&P
This network can be managed both directly and remotely via the network element's command
line interface and the ICView management system. The command line interface is ideal for basic
maintenance and emergency recovery via a low-speed connection, although all management functions
including a flexible scripting capability are available in this interface for comprehensive administration.
The ICView management system provides centralized control of all components in the network
via a user-friendly Web interface, and integrates with carriers' OSS to ensure back office
interoperability for fast service deployment.
The Convergent Networks Advantage
At Convergent Networks, our cutting-edge technology is helping guide
service providers to the next generation of broadband communications.
The Distributed Softswitch Architecture, including the
the ICS2000T media gateway, the ICSPT tandem service proxy, the
ICSGT signaling gateway and the ICViewT management system, provides
evolutionary, packet-based platforms for delivering multiple voice
and data applications over ATM, TDM and IP networks. Unmatched in
its scalability and versatility, our solution supports a revolutionary
migration path for future service creation and delivery in the New
Public Network. Our commitment to providing a complete solution
to ensure service providers' success is further extended by
a comprehensive portfolio of professional and technical
support services.
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