General

In certain cases, departments may require system features that are not provided by Single Line Concept (SLC) line features. Even though Single Line Concept provides many line features, some UF users prefer a electronic key system with its available system features and multi-line/feature telephone sets that may enhance call processing. Electronic Key Systems have a higher installation cost as compared to SLC's. This is because the customer must purchase the electronic computer based controller or key system unit (KSU) that typically resides in the communications closet/room. If voice mail is desired, it can be provided by BellSouth's Memory Call or by installing a voice mail system as part of the key system. Upgrades to the electronic key systems are the responsibility of the owners. UF Telecommunications maintains all telephone systems owned by the University (See Repair Service). Electronic Key and PBX systems are considered if several of the following situations exist:

• Electronic key or PBX systems work best if the user prefers central answering in that all incoming calls are answered and processed by one or more positions. Automated Attendant can also be provided by electronic key systems to either back up the human answering positions or provide the main answering duties. Electronic key systems and PBX's are designed primarily for central answering. If one or more staff prefer to receive calls directly, additional ESSX lines can be installed for this purpose. The electronic key or PBX system can be programmed to switch any outside call using these "private lines" directly to the particular staff bypassing central answering. However, the number of these private lines should be kept to a minimum or otherwise Single Line Concept Telephone System should be purchased instead.
  
• The department's overall call traffic allows the efficient sharing of ESSX lines. Fewer ESSX lines would be needed for the department. This situation reduces the monthly line costs for the department. Again, private lines can be provided, but they shall be kept to a minimum.
  
• The department's existing and projected number of telephones number less than 120. Electronic key systems are limited in the number of telephone sets they can support.
  
• If the department's existing and projected number of stations number more than 120 and Single Line Concept will not do the job, Private Automated Branch Exchange (PABX) systems are available. PBX's initial costs are very high and only should be considered if there are no other alternatives.
  
• Both electronic key and PBX's have wireless technology that allows users to remain connected to their telephone systems even though they be on their feet in and about their building.
  
• PBX's as well as electronic key systems are connected to ESSX lines to provide access to SUNCOM service, AT&T long distance service, and extension dialing to Campus.
  
• Electronic key ESSX lines are billed at the normal ESSX line rate of $17.20 a month each.
  
• PBX's ESSX lines are billed between $57.00 to $90.00 a month depending if the lines are terminated as ground start or T-1.

Telecommunications has determined that Nortel (formerly known as Northern Telcom) provide feature rich, well supported by a leading manufacturer, upgradeable to meet future technology, robust, user friendly, and scalable products. Thus, we will look first at Nortel products to meet the needs of our customers. However, if Nortel products cannot provide the feature or functionally that the user demands, we will not hesitate to look at other manufacturers. For example, we have installed Siemens ROLM products in the past due to its call processing capability. However, Nortel has advanced in the Automatic Call Distribution, Automated Attendant, Voice Mail technology, and Computer Telephony technology and is now just as effective if not more than their competitors.

• For a better description of the Nortel Meridian 1 PBX product, click on Meridian 1. Please use your browser's "back" feature to return to this page.

• For a look and detailed descriptions of the various Meridian 1 Digital Telephone sets, click on Meridian 2000 Series Digital Telephones. Please use your browser's "back" feature to return to this page.

• For a better description of the Norstar Electronic Key system, click on Norstar Key System. Please use your browser's "back" feature to return to this page.

• For a look and detailed descriptions of the various Norstar Electronic Key Telephone Sets, click on Norstar Digital Telephones
  
• The popular key set is the

The M7310 set

• For and description of the Companion In-Building wireless mobility solution, click on Companion .

• For instructions on how to change your Norstar's Time and Date click here.