ISDN Connection Solutions

Overview

ISDN, which stands for Integrated Services Digital Network, is a system of digital phone connections which allows data to be transmitted simultaneously across the world using end-to-end digital connectivity. With ISDN, voice and data are carried by bearer channels (B channels) occupying a bandwidth of 64 kb/s (bits per second). Multiple B channels can be combined to increase the audio and video quality of the connection. ISDN calls are charged at similar rates to regular analog calls, but the user is charged for each 64k channel used.

Basic Rate ISDN (ISDN2)

Two aggregated 64k B-Channels offer 128 kbps of sustainable, dedicated bandwidth. The bandwidth available over ISDN is about 5 times greater than with PSTN. ISDN requires special telephone lines, which cost a little more than normal phone lines, and may include the need for Terminal Adaptors.

Primary Rate ISDN (ISDN 24 or 30)

Many businesses are connected to primary rate ISDN lines to allow a large number of simultaneous telephone calls.  Primary rate lines allow 30 simultaneous calls in Europe, and 24 simultaneous calls in North America.  Solutions are available to break out basic rate ISDN lines from these primary rate lines, allowing the use of multiple video systems from a single primary rate line.