Go In Depth With PRI!

Primary Rate Interface is just one of two levels in the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN). The other is a Basic Rate Interface (BRI) that is typically intended for your home or a small business. PRI is typically intended for larger companies and users with digital PBX have to allow them access to the PSTN or Public Switched Telephone Network. PRI allows 23 simultaneous calls to take place and can be reassigned when it is necessary to meet different needs such as video conference calls. Both rates include a number of B-channels and a D-channel. The use of the B-channel is for carrying data and voice services while a D-channel controls the signaling information. Within the U.S. PRI channels are carried on a T-carrier system. The PRI user is linked up directly to your PRI provider at their company’s central office. Some of the benefits of PRI include:

• Improved Efficiency
• Lower Voice Costs
• Lower Payroll Costs

Along with some of the obvious benefits of PRI, some of the features that you may not have known about include the following:

• Automatic Incoming Call Failover
• Trunk Utilization Reporting
• Caller ID
• Direct Inward Dialing
• Flexible Billing Options

Although PRI is based on the T-carrier (T1) line there are distinct differences between the two of them.  When it comes to the dynamic usage of both, T1 lines don’t have scaleable hunt groups whereas an ISDN-PRI does feature that. Another difference between the two of them is that PRI uses Trunk to Trunk, while a T1 line can set conferences on a channel.  Since PRI are digital lines they are known for being more reliable, and trouble shooting is also easier with them. For more information regarding Primary Rate Interface, contact AeroCom today and we can help you find the best quotes and pricing from your preferred provider. [php snippet=8]