Where are the proposed points of interconnection?
The points of interconnection will be at the Metro Nodes. The locations of which have now been published on the NIPP Website. Please refer to Network Information link on right for details on how to access the NIPP website.
Will there be a process of integration of any new interconnection equipment
Yes, the current interconnect integration and operation testing will continue and will be enhanced to apply when IP Interconnect is offered.
Where will network demarcation points be defined?
The physical network demarcation boundaries will continue to be as currently defined for ISI and CSI fibre interconnect.
When will the list of Metro Nodes be available?
BT has published an initial list of proposed town locations for Metro Node Sites, also included on the list is an indication of whether or not the site is an existing interconnect location. The list is available via the NIPP website pages on the BT Wholesale web portal for registered users. This is a preliminary list and is for indicative purposes only and is subject to change and there are no implementation assurances given.Once the information of actual addresses is released it will be controlled by the National Infrastructure Security Co-ordination Centre (NISCC) with the town locations on the NIPP site as usual. We will be publishing any new list as soon as it is available.
How will dial interconnect work in 21CN?
It is proposed that that analogue line cards in the MSANs will use G.711 voice codes associated with encapsulation into IP packets. The use of G.711 should allow the continued operation of V.90 modems. The traffic will be routed through to an IP/TDM gateway at the metro node and then to the dial ports, either BT's or, in the case of interconnect traffic, those of other operators. With the gradual withdrawal from service of DLEs, DLE handover products as such will no longer be available and alternatives will need to be developed.
How will wholesale IP calls be charged in 21CN?
Interconnect calls products will be gradually transitioned to a new call type structure appropriate to the new network. IP Interconnect call charges will be the subject of ongoing discussion and consultation. Transit calls will continue to be provided using the legacy NGS platform.
What is the standards body for 21CN?
Subject to Industry/Ofcom NICC will be the appropriate standards body and is the correct vehicle for the discussion of standards for 21CN. NICC has work study items in the following areas of Interconnect signalling, physical IP interconnect and end to end quality of service.
If interconnect is at Layer 2 what MPLS doctrine will be followed?
Standards do not currently allow large scale interconnection of MPLS domains. Because of this BT currently plan its interconnect at the IP network layer.
How will interconnect rates be negotiated and agreed?
This is part of the ongoing Network Charge Control discussion.
Are there any changes envisaged for international PoCs?
At present, no changes are envisaged to the international PoCs. However, this is likely to be reviewed to exploit the opportunities of 21CN and of IP interconnect.
Will CSI and ISI continue to be offered?
CSI and ISI will continue to be offered in both TDM and IP forms, the latter at Metro Nodes only.
Who will allocate the addresses for equipment behind the node?
The PSTN number will be retained, the IP address (initially V4) will be associated with the ISP. It is likely in the future that further identities will be assigned to individuals e.g. family members. These may be Telephone Numbers, or email addresses / SIP URIs. IP addresses will be associated with network transport NOT with users.
