The Telecommunications Industry Association is issuing a call for interest in developing a voluntary industry standard for voice over Internet protocol terminal adapters.
Such VoIP adapters allow ordinary telephones to make calls over the Internet instead of using standard telephone lines. The project would benefit the industry by providing a standard identifying the electrical characteristics needed to support multiple telephones connected to the adapter, as may occur in a residential environment, as well as the protocols required for providing VoIP services. The TIA's TR-41 Engineering Committee, User Premises Telecommunications Requirements, will sponsor a meeting on August 9 in Washington, D.C. to identify interested parties and to seek input on the contents of this proposed standard.
TR-41 is developing standards for telephones, key systems, private branch exchanges, and VoIP gateways and terminal devices. While TR-41 members have expertise in telephone line interface requirements, VoIP protocols, voice transmission and quality of service issues, the group is seeking participation from terminal adapter manufacturers, cable and digital subscriber line service providers and VoIP service operators.
The August 9 meeting will be held from 1:30 to 5 p.m. at the Hamilton Crowne Plaza Hotel, 14th and K Streets NW, Washington, D.C. There is no charge for attending the meeting.
Those needing overnight accommodations may contact the hotel at (800) 637-3788 or directly at (202) 682-0111. TR-41 and its subcommittees and working groups will meet August 9-13 and participation in all meetings is welcomed.
The TIA is based in Arlington, VA. For more information visit www.tiaonline.org.