An EPC user who can manage users, permissions, and related entities for an organization such as a school, library, service provider, or consulting firm.
The relevant authority with responsibility for administration of the eligible school or library who must certify the status of the entity's compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) in order to receive universal service support.
The Allowable Vendor Selection/ Contract Date is the earliest date on which an applicant can sign a contract for contracted services or enter into an arrangement for tariffed (T) or monthto-month (MTM) services with a service provider.
Schools that choose not to use the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) participation numbers to calculate their E-rate Program discounts may use certain federallyapproved alternative mechanisms instead. These alternative discount mechanisms cannot be [...]
An ATA is a piece of hardware that converts audio, data and video signals into Internet Protocol (IP) packets that can then be transferred over the internet. It can be used to connect a standard telephone to a high bandwidth line to make voice calls using [...]
An appeal is a request to reconsider a USAC decision.
The entity applying for universal service support. In the Schools and Libraries Program the entity is a school, library, consortium, or other eligible entity that files program forms.
The browser application of certain phones allows for extreme IP phone functionality and flexibility. In essence, the browser application screen on your phone works like a web-browser, with some limitations. These browsers connect to the Internet to provide [...]
Appointment Reminder module for FreePBX Distro is a unique way to automate appointment confirmations, cancellations and reschedules. By simply specifying numbers and names to be called PBXact will automatically call at specified times and allow recipients [...]
Audio codecs encode or decode digital audio data packets, and can be a piece of software or a hardware device. Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) is codec-agnostic and accepts all audio codecs the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) connects with [...]
A review of documentation and resources that verify the state of compliance with program rules.
An Interactive Voice Response(IVR)/Auto-attendant feature is perhaps one of the most desirable features for a business PBX. An IVR plays an automated message to all incoming callers. This message plays to the caller, specifies the options which are available [...]
An automated attendant (also auto attendant, auto-attendant, autoattendant or AA, or virtual receptionist) allows callers to be automatically transferred to an extension without the intervention of an operator/receptionist). Many AAs will also offer a [...]
It is critical that you have a backup procedure in place. We offer a support package that includes automated offsite backups. This module is used to backup your PBX phone system settings and configurations. If you have a support contract that [...]
An automatic call distributor (ACD) or automated call distribution system, is a device or system that distributes incoming calls to a specific group of terminals or agents based on the customer's selection, customer's telephone number, selected incoming [...]
Bandwidth says how much data can be transferred in a given period of time, i.e. a data transfer rate, and is usually measured in bits per second (Bps). Analog devices' bandwidth is measured in Hertz (Hz), or cycles per second.
A Category Two service type on the Eligible Services List. Basic Maintenance of Internal Connections services cover the repair and upkeep of eligible products.
See “FCC Form 472”
A BEAR (FCC Form 472) Notification Letter is sent to the service provider and the applicant after a BEAR form has been processed by USAC.
Run by USAC, and carried out by auditors trained in universal service and program audit requirements, these audits of beneficiaries and contributors serve to identify noncompliance with program rules and amounts of recoverable funds.
A response from a service provider (bidder) to a request for services.
The entity that receives the bill and pays for the supported service. A Billed Entity may be different from the physical location being supported.
A unique number assigned by USAC to each billed entity (school, library, or consortium) that pays for services.
USAC Board of Directors
Allows users to send a recorded message to a defined set of recipients.
Beginning with FY2015, E-rate Program recipients must cost allocate nonancillary ineligible components that are bundled with eligible products or services, such as handsets included with telephone service or netbooks bundled with internet access, including [...]
Business continuity and disaster recovery (BCDR or BC/DR) is a set of processes and techniques used to help an organization recover from a disaster and continue or resume routine business operations. It is a broad term [...]
Busy Lamp Field (BLF) is a lighted (green or red) indicator on your phone (or expansion module) which can be configured to indicate the status of certain conditions/features of Hosted PBX. Examples of BLF which can indicate status are:
This feature allows calls which would usually originate at a given location to be forwarded to another. Once call forwarding is activated, all calls are redirected to the intended destination immediately. Calls can be forwarded to another extension, phone [...]
Call parking enables a call to be placed in a call parking lot with an assigned number. This parked call can be picked up by any user with any phone. The caller who is placed in the call parking lot will have on-hold music played to them while they are [...]
A Call Queue is a feature which places callers into a regulated on-hold system of priority such that the caller with the highest priority (usually the caller on hold the longest) is answered before a caller with a lower one. Call Queues are extremely [...]
Call recording is a useful feature which enables a calling or called party to record a conversation using their phone. Call recording can be set to always record, never record, or record strictly on an on-demand basis. Call recording can be useful for [...]
Tired of searching the system Call Detail Records for call recordings? Running out of storage on your system due to required archiving of call recordings? With the Call Recording Report Module, you can view, sort, listen to, archive and download all recorded [...]
Allows users to move their call recordings off the PBX to separate storage. This frees up PBX memory for use and allows users to archive recordings.
VOIPITS gives you the ability to view all phone calls in a graphical interface. Hosted PBX allows you to filter by date, extension, user, duration, and more. Totals are calculated based on the filter settings, and are displayed graphically in a number [...]
The Call Screening feature, when enabled, prevents a number from calling into the phone system. This is useful to prevent unwanted calling/solicitation, prevent harassment and/or abuse, stop telemarketing companies who just won't give up, and more. [...]
The Call Spy feature enables certain privileged users to listen in on any phone call. This feature does not allow the user using call spy to interact with any member of the call being spied on. This feature also does not alert the party being spied on [...]
This essential phone feature allows users to transfer calls from their phone. Calls can be transferred to another user, voicemail, an external number, and other destinations. Call transfers can be done in two distinct ways. The first method is called [...]
Caller ID is a standard Hosted PBX feature which enables incoming calls to be identified by their Caller ID. An incoming caller's ID is displayed on the users phone screen. Similarly, all Hosted PBX extensions can be set to display a certain Caller [...]
The Caller ID Management module is a unique way to modify the Caller ID that is outpulsed on the fly. By utilizing a simple feature code you can change your Caller ID for one call or all calls.
A carrier network is the proprietary network infrastructure belonging to a telecommunications service provider. Telecom carriers are authorized by regulatory agencies to operate telecommunications systems. Carrier networks are made up of large, complex [...]
Services used to connect broadband or internet to eligible locations, or services that provide the basic conduit access to the internet. Data Transmission Services and Internet Access, and Voice Services are Category One services.
Starting with FY2015, applicants applying for Category Two services will be limited to a five year pre-discount budget for those services.
Internal connections services needed to enable high-speed broadband connectivity and broadband internal connections components. Category Two includes local area networks/ wireless local area networks (LAN/ WLAN), internal connections components, basic [...]
A law that mandates certain internet safety policy and filtering requirements for recipients of E-rate Program discounts for services other than telecommunications services.
A class-4, or tandem, telephone switch is a U.S. telephone company central office telephone exchange used to interconnect local exchange carrier offices for long distance communications in the public switched telephone network.
The Class of Service Administration module provides granular control at the extension level to access and set permissions of specific calling features of your PBX. These features include Outbound Routes, Feature Codes, Ring Groups, Queues, Conference [...]
A helpline available to assist applicants and service providers. You can call CSB toll free at (888) 203-8100.
A cloud phone system is hosted in the cloud, which means that data is stored in a secure server which you can reach over the internet. A cloud phone system replaces traditional land lines, and is usually hosted by a third party provider.
A codec converts the data stream of a piece of software or a hardware device, in order for it to be sent, received, used, stored or encrypted. They are especially useful for video streaming and video conferencing. Codecs are so called because they both [...]
The short name for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). See “FCC.”
The process by which a funding commitment is reduced because of program rule violations.
This letter notifies both the applicant and the service provider of a COMAD. It contains a Funding Commitment Report which lists the Funding Request Numbers (FRNs) affected by the COMAD.
An organization recognized by a regulatory authority (such as a state public utility commission) to provide telecommunications services to all requesting parties, or an organization that holds itself out to provide such services generally to the public [...]
See “Community Eligibility Provision (CEP).”
An alternative provision to the normal requirements for annual determinations of eligibility for free and reduced price meals under the National School Lunch Program. Schools must have at least 40 percent of their students directly certified to qualify [...]
The process conducted by an applicant to select a service provider and order products and/or services. This process must be a fair and open competitive procurement.
The Conference Pro module is an add-on to the existing conference module found in FreePBX. This module allows end users to manage conference room settings from the user control panel. Admin users can also easily create conference room IVR's and choose [...]
The conference room feature of your Hosted PBX works to create a meeting room whereby users (both internally and externally) can call in and talk to one another. Conference rooms can be moderated by an admin user, and as well can be password protected [...]
A consortium (plural consortia) is a group of entities that apply together for funding.
A company or individual (nonemployee of the entity) selected to perform certain activities related to the application process on behalf of the applicant or service provider for a fee. A Letter of Agency (LOA) or consultant agreement must be in place before [...]
A unique eight-digit identification number assigned by USAC to consultants.
The date the contract is awarded to the service provider.
The date the contract between the applicant and service provider ends.
A company that, based on the revenue reported on the FCC Forms 499-A/Q, is required to pay contributions directly to the Universal Service Fund.
A 10-digit number that the FCC assigns to a business or individual that registers with the FCC. It is associated with an entity's Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and is required before filing FCC Forms 499-A/Q.
A change to the SPIN featured on one or more FRNs that corrects a data entry error, reflects a merger or acquisition, or fixes some other type of error. It is not the result of a change to the actual service provider.
The Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Link module is designed to allow you to connect your PBX to your support CRM software to push call history and caller information to your CRM and in conjunction with Zulu allow Click to Call from your CRM and [...]
Data networks allow computers, acting as network access points known as nodes, to send and receive data packets across network connections, and for multiple users to access, use, store or encrypt data. Data networks can vary greatly in size and complexity, [...]
A web-based USAC tool used to access information related to applications, funding commitments, and disbursements.
A Category One service type on the Eligible Services List. Includes broadband connectivity and basic conduit access to the internet. This does not include charges for content, equipment purchases, or other services beyond basic conduit access to the internet. [...]
The employee(s) of a service provider company authorized to enter and modify company information on FCC Forms 498 and 499 through the E-File application.
A demarcation refers to the point where a service provider's network ends and where an applicant's local area network (LAN) begins.
A worksheet that contains background information and notes the basis of an exception during an audit.
A dial tone is a telephony signal sent by a telephone exchange or private branch exchange (PBX) to a terminating device, such as a telephone, when an off-hook condition is detected. It indicates that the exchange is working and is ready to initiate [...]
Dictation is a useful feature which allows a user to record audio from their phone. The recording can then be sent to any email address specified to be listened to later.
Direct connections allow rural schools and libraries to share access to highspeed broadband services.
Direct Inward System Access (DISA) is a system feature which allows a user to access the phone system from external sources. This feature allows users (for example, on a mobile device) to connect into the phone system in order to check voicemail, place [...]
Discounts in the program can be found in the discount matrix, by using the percentage of students eligible for the National School Lunch Program or an equivalent measure of poverty and the rural or urban status of the school district or library system. [...]
Starting with FY2015, all funding requests for any school or combination of schools within a school district qualify for a single school-district-wide discount rate.
The do not disturb feature allows users to set a condition on their handset phones which would automatically reject a call. This is somewhat similar to call forwarding, except that any incoming call will terminate to the users 'busy' voicemail [...]
Applicants and service providers must retain documentation related to the application for, receipt, and delivery of discounted services for at least 10 years from the last date of service delivery.
Process that allows applicants to certify and submit forms online, eliminating the need for a paper form with an original signature.
USAC's online forms submission tool for service providers, available at https://forms.universalservice.org.
The FCC Report and Order that modernized the E-rate Program and focused on high-speed broadband connectivity to schools and libraries (FCC 14-99).
EPC is the account and application management portal for the Schools and Libraries (E-rate) Program. Applicants, consultants, and service providers participating in the E-rate Program use this tool to manage program processes and to submit questions. [...]
The common term used in place of the Schools and Libraries Program. The E-rate Program provides discounts to schools and libraries for eligible products and services.
Enhanced 911, or E911 for short, is a voice communication system dedicated to connecting mobile and internet phone users to the emergency services.
A regional public multi-service agency authorized by state statute to develop, manage, and provide services or programs to its component school districts. In some states, ESAs are called Educational Service Units (ESUs), Local Educational Agencies (LEAs), [...]
An entity that meets the requirements for eligibility to participate in the program.
Products and services that are eligible for universal service support.
An FCC-released annual list of the products and services approved for funding by the FCC under the Schools and Libraries Program.
With the Commercially Supported Schmooze PBX EndPoint Manager you can Auto Provision & Configure directly from the GUI interface over 220 popular Desk Phone, Wireless Phones, Door Phones, Overhead Paging Devices, Gateways and Specialty devices from [...]
Ethernet refers to industry standard IEEE 802.3 and is the internet-like system behind a Local Area Network (LAN), transmitting data packets according to various protocols within a private network. Ethernet transmission rates are measured in bits per [...]
A mechanism for assessing and choosing a service provider from incoming bids. Note that the price of the eligible products and services must be included as a factor in the evaluation and that factor must be weighted more heavily than any other single [...]
Extension Routing allows you to easily and visually control which extensions are allowed to use specific outbound routes.
The Fax Pro module is a reliable, robust inbound/outbound faxing server. You simply enable faxing for any user on the system; then you point a phone number to specific fax user and let us answer the fax call.
The Description of Services Requested and Certification Form is an FCC form that schools and libraries complete to request services and establish eligibility.
The Services Ordered and Certification Form is an FCC form that schools and libraries use to report services ordered and discounts requested for those services.
The period generally between midJanuary and mid-March (prior to the start of the funding year) when forms filed are treated as having been received on the same day and are considered for funding before any other forms filed after the window closes.
The Billed Entity Applicant Reimbursement Form is an FCC form that schools and libraries submit to USAC after paying for services in full, to request reimbursement for the discount on those services.
The Service Provider Annual Certification Form is an FCC form that service providers file annually to certify that they will comply with program rules and guidelines. This must be filed before USAC will pay invoices. FCC FORM 474 (SPI) The Service Provider [...]
The Certification by Administrative Authority to Billed Entity of Compliance with the Children's Internet Protection Act Form is an FCC form that consortium members (the administrative authority for CIPA purposes) submit to their consortium leader to [...]
The Receipt of Service Confirmation and Children's Internet Protection Act Certification Form is an FCC form that schools and libraries file to inform USAC that services have begun, and of their CIPA compliance.
This letter is issued by both the applicant and service provider to indicate that an FCC Form 486 has been successfully processed.
The Service Provider and Billed Entity Identification Number and General Contact Information Form issued to collect contact, remittance, and payment information from service providers and applicants receiving universal service support. Service providers [...]
See “498 Company Officer.”
See “Delegated Users.”
See “General Contact.”
The Funding Commitment Adjustment Request Form is filed by schools and libraries to notify USAC of reductions to or cancellations of approved FRNs and/or changes to reported Service Start Dates or Contract Expiration Dates, to request a service delivery [...]
See “CORES ID.”
The U.S. government agency that regulates interstate and international communications and oversees the Universal Service Fund.
This feature is controlled in the Hosted PBX User Panel. Once enabled, the follow me feature will direct calls to alternate extensions/external destinations (such as mobile or landline) should a call persist (ring) longer than the defined number of seconds. [...]
An identifying code for public libraries issued by the FederalState Cooperative System (FSCS), a cooperative program between the federal government and the states. FSCS data on public libraries is received from The Institute of Museum and Library Services [...]
A letter that contains USAC's funding decisions on an applicant's funding requests.
A unique number that USAC assigns to each funding request in an FCC Form 471.
The funding year is a time during which program support is being provided. The FY begins July 1 and ends June 30 of the following calendar year.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems use gateways to convert voice calls and fax communications received from a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), so they can be sent as digital packets over an Internet Protocol (IP) network.
An agency that studies and reports on the programs and expenditures of the federal government. It studies how the federal government spends taxpayer dollars, evaluates federal programs, audits expenditures and issues legal opinions.
The employee of a service provider company who filled out the FCC Form 498.
A person who is authorized by the applicant to retrieve the FCC Form 498 information and obtain access to EPC. They are able to complete but not certify updates to the FCC Form 498.
In cellular telecommunications, the terms handover or handoff refer to the process of transferring an ongoing call or data session from one channel connected to the core network to another channel.
A comprehensive child development program that serves preschool-age children and their families. Head Start facilities in some states are eligible for E-rate Program funding.
FreePBX High Availability, or "FreePBX HA," was created to fill a need for organizations that have a low tolerance for downtime in the event of system failures and outages. Traditional backup solutions for FreePBX include on-site or off-site backups and [...]
Hosted PBX is a service where the call platform and PBX features are hosted at the service provider location. The business end users connect via IP to the provider for voice service.
Hot Desking is simply the ability to log into any phone on your system, and have your user profile and settings populated onto that device. An IP phone is pushed information and processing power from the PBX (your phone server). Because of this, you can [...]
The Call Flow Control feature is a unique feature which gives control over the routing of incoming calls with the use of feature codes. This feature is useful in a situation where an incoming number/route would need to be changed on-the- fly. A good example [...]
An Intelligent Network Interface Device, more commonly known as an "INID", is a system that provides triple play media services to customer homes. The system provides digital subscriber line access, advanced TV, and voice over internet protocol (VoIP) [...]
An intercom is a great feature to have in an environment where messages need to quickly be relayed to users across distances or offices. Paging/Intercom allows users to contact each other directly and immediately through the speakerphone (intercom and [...]
A Category Two service type on the Eligible Services List. Internal Connections services are eligible products, such as routers, switches, hubs, and wiring. Eligible products are located at the applicant site and must be considered a necessity to transport [...]
Internet fax, e-fax, or online fax is the use of the Internet Protocol to send a fax (facsimile), rather than using only phone networks (traditional faxing) with a fax machine. Internet fax includes "web fax" and "email fax," along with VoIP [...]
Used interchangeably, internet telephony and IP telephony and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) [...]
Various names are used for any hardware device or piece of software that allows packets of voice data to pass over the internet between users, and enables voice calls and communications. H.323 or Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) can guide the data packets; [...]
A company that provides internet access service (also referred to as a service provider).
A statement or document that (1) service providers submit to USAC after they have provided or completed service to the applicant or (2) applicants submit to USAC after they have paid for services in full. Invoices are submitted using FCC Form 474 (service [...]
A single, one-time 120-day extension of the deadline to submit an invoice – FCC Form 472 (BEAR Form) or FCC Form 474 (SPI Form). The extension must be requested on or before the invoice deadline.
A USAC-generated report sent to service providers upon receipt of the service provider's invoices. The report identifies which invoice line items were accepted and denied.
An Internet Protocol (IP) address is a fixed or dynamic number ranging from 0.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255 associated with every internet-enabled device. IP numbers are an essential piece of information for connecting different devices over the internet, [...]
Internet Protocol (IP) is a communications system that uses formats and rules to route data packets or datagrams from one computer to another over the internet.
An Internet Protocol Private Branch Exchange (IPBX) is a telephone exchange, local to a building or area, whose calls are managed and processed within an Internet Protocol (IP) network, such as a Local Area Network (LAN). Access to and from both internal [...]
Service that conducts full time monitoring of customer’s ISP circuit and provides proactive notification if the circuit is not performing properly.
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are companies that offer internet access for residential and/or commercial customers, with optional services such as email accounts, fax capability, audio and video communications and site hosting available. Generally, [...]
Internet Telephony Service Providers (ITSPs) allow users to use their existing internet connection to operate an internet, IP, SIP or VoIP phone. By combining voice [...]
Interactive voice response (IVR) is a technology that allows a computer to interact with humans through the use of voice and DTMF tones input via keypad. In telecommunications, IVR allows customers to interact with a company's host system via a telephone [...]
Jitter is any deviation in, or displacement of, the signal pulses in a high-frequency digital signal. The deviation can be in terms of amplitude, phase timing or the width of the signal pulse. Among the causes of jitter are electromagnetic interference [...]
Local Area Networks (LANs) connect computers to each other within an isolated environment, such as an office, school or home, and use either ethernet or token ring architecture to transmit data within the private network. LANs offer very fast communication [...]
The last mile or last kilometer is a colloquial phrase widely used in the telecommunications, cable television and internet industries to refer to the final leg of the telecommunications networks that deliver telecommunication services to retail end-users [...]
Although data communications can be measured in milliseconds and nanoseconds, there is always some delay between a data request and data transfer result. This delay is called latency and the closer transmission speeds come to zero, the better the latency [...]
A written offer from a service provider and acceptance from the applicant that includes all the material terms and conditions and is legally binding.
A Letter of Agency (LOA) authorizes a consortium leader to apply for program support on behalf of each consortium member or a consultant to conduct specified activities on behalf of an applicant or service provider.
The LTSA, 20 U.S.C. Section 9121 et seq., (1996) provides the statutory definition of a library.
In telephony, line hunting (or hunt group) is the method of distributing phone calls from a single telephone number to a group of several phone lines. Specifically, it refers to the process or algorithm used to select which line will receive [...]
A voice, data, and/or video network that provide connections generally within an eligible school or library to other locations within the school or library.
In telephony, the local loop (also referred to as a local tail, subscriber line, or in the aggregate as the last mile) is the physical link or circuit that connects from the demarcation point of the customer premises to the edge of the common carrier [...]
The lowest price that a service provider charges to non-residential customers who are similarly situated to a particular E-rate Program applicant (school, library, or consortium) for similar services.
A category of service on the Eligible Services List. Services provided by a third party for the operation, management, and monitoring of internal connections components. E-rate support is limited to eligible expenses or portions of expenses that directly [...]
See “Managed Internal Broadband Services (MIBS)”
An evaluation process used by applicants when a state files an FCC Form 470 and signs state master contracts with more than one service provider. The applicant must evaluate all eligible state master contracts and demonstrate why the service provider [...]
Sometimes known as M&C errors, these are errors applicants make on FCC Forms 470 or 471 that can be corrected after the forms are certified.
Many businesses have multiple offices. Whether separated by large geographical areas, or by several floors, and depending on whether there are numerous employees at each office, it can be necessary to provide a Hosted PBX to each office. Multiple Hosted [...]
Music on hold is a feature which plays music to callers who have been placed on hold or are currently in a call queue. The music can be customized to play music pertaining to the demographic base of the callers, or simply present the callers with a number [...]
This federal program provides school lunches to eligible students at a free or reduced rate.
An identification code for public schools issued by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the primary federal entity for collecting and analyzing data related to education. Private schools may also request NCES codes.
A weekly newsletter that provides up-to-date program information, including important dates, tips regarding the application process, and other breaking news.
The No Child Left Behind Act, 20 U.S.C. Section 7801 et seq., provides the statutory definition of elementary and secondary schools.
The non-discount portion (also called non- discount share) is the applicant's share of the cost of the eligible E-rate Program products and services, i.e., the cost to be paid by the applicant after the E-rate Program discount is applied.
A school building without classrooms or a library building without public areas. Examples of school NIFs include administrative buildings, bus barns, and cafeteria facilities. Examples of library NIFs include administrative buildings, bookmobile garages, [...]
An announcement issued by the FCC to detail proposed changes to FCC rules and policies and seek public comment on the changes.
The Office Hours feature makes it possible to route a call based on the time, day of the week, or month. This feature can be useful for routing calls differently after business hours, during weekends, holidays, etc. A good example of this feature in use [...]
Part of the Executive Office of the President, Office of Management and Budget (OMB) reviews and approves FCC forms that are used by universal service contributors and universal service program participants, contributors and service providers.
A change to the SPIN featured on one or more FRNs made as a result of a change to the actual service provider.
The Outbound Call Limiting module allows you to place restrictions on how many times a number is called during a certain time period on a per outbound route basis.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) refers to the shared use of files, power, bandwidth, etc., by two or more computers. A P2P network makes optimum use of all resources available across connected computers (acting as nodes) with each computer having network capabilities [...]
Packet loss occurs when one or more packets of data traveling across a computer network fail to reach their destination. Packet loss is typically caused by network congestion. Packet loss is measured as a percentage of packets lost with respect to packets [...]
Page Pro adds to the existing Paging module in FreePBX to include the ability to hook outbound routes to a page group, make a valet-style (airport-style) page and create recordings to be played to a page group before the pager can speak.
Park Pro adds the ability to add multiple parking lots within FreePBX, useful for companies running multiple locations off the same server, or companies that need multiple parking lots or have many internal departments.
A USAC program which assesses specific payments made to beneficiaries in all four programs to determine if these payments were made in accordance with FCC rules. Using results of these assessments, USAC calculates estimates of improper payment rates and [...]
With the Commercially Supported Sangoma PBX End Point Manager, you can use the GUI interface to directly auto-provision & configure over 150 popular desk phones, wireless phones, door phones, overhead paging devices, gateways and specialty devices [...]
A Private Branch Exchange (PBX) or Private Automatic Branch Exchange (PABX) systems replaces the traditional telephony switchboard, with a private telephone network exchange. PBX phone systems offer additional features such as caller greetings, conference [...]
A code assigned to a specific authorized person at a specific billed entity to allow online form certification (see e-certification).
Phone Apps are a suite of phone applications that integrate directly with FreePBX and our commercial End Point Manager. Phone Apps allow users to control functions and settings directly from the screen of their phone. The initial release of applications [...]
This is a feature which can be accessed both externally and internally. When the directory is called, the caller is prompted to enter the first three letters of a user's first or last name. The directory will then search and match the input to the [...]
Pin Set Pro provides you greater flexibility in the deployment of security Pin Codes, allowing system administrators to assign Pin Codes directly to extensions and granularly control per extensions which outbound routes are allowed to be dialed without [...]
A Point of Presence (POP) is a carrier facility, found within digital communications infrastructure, which lets devices or networks connect to the internet. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) usually manage several POPs, often distinguishing between user [...]
Post Office Protocol (POP) is an application-layer internet standard for receiving email. POP3, a client-server protocol, is the most recent version of the POP standard, and lets a server hold any email until a client requests access.
Plain old telephone service (POTS) is a retronym for voice-grade telephone service employing analog signal transmission over copper loops.
On-premise PBX is also known as an IP-PBX phone system. It is similar to a traditional PBX system that resides at a location, such as a computer equipment room or phone closet. The main difference is that IP routing is done with more current technology. [...]
The employee of company that filed an FCC Form 499-A/Q.
Provides greater visibility into pricing and technology choices by applicants. Information and pricing regarding the specific services and equipment purchased by schools and libraries shall be publicly available on USAC's website.
Service to professionally record user messages for playback from the system.
The compliance review process of FCC Forms 471 that must be completed before funding commitments are made by USAC.
Customized Dashboard to check-in and check-out guests, along with simple billing and guest service capabilities, for small-to-medium hotels, Bed and Breakfasts, and hostels.
A proxy server is an intermediary device used to connect, for example, all computers on a Local Area Network (LAN) to the internet. The same LAN can host the proxy server, or it can be located on an external network. Proxy servers generally treat one [...]
The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is a collection of all the world's telephone carriers, both private and public, and including all local, long-distance and international networks.
A notice issued by the FCC to notify the public of an action taken, a change made, or an upcoming event.
If you use ACD/Queues, you need Q-Xact to help you make the most of your time! With Q-Xact, you are given insight into each and every one of your queues. Q-Xact gives you full control over what data is displayed for each type of report. It allows you [...]
A report issued by USAC to the applicant detailing all invoicing activity (BEARs and SPIs) for all funding years that occurred during the previous quarter.
(includes Queue Call Backs)
If you use queues (automatic call distribution / ACD), you need Q-Xact to help you make the most of your time! Q-Xact is an advanced reporting module that lets administrators keep an eye on every aspect of their queues. With Q-Xact, you are given insight [...]
A RAL is issued by USAC to both the applicant and service provider to indicate that a filed FCC Form 471 has been certified before the close of the filing window.
An RIDF is required when there has been a COMAD but funds have already been disbursed in excess of the revised commitment amount.
A requirement that the FCC withholds action on an application, payment, and/or other requests for benefits when the universal service program participant is delinquent in non-tax debts owed to the FCC or other federal governmental agencies.
An entity is considered in Red Light status when the Red Light Rule goes into effect (the entity is delinquent). USAC will not make any disbursements until the delinquency has been satisfied or payment arrangements are made.
Action taken by the FCC to return applications to USAC for further review.
Hosted PBX's support the ability to add Remote Users. A Remote User is a phone system user who is not located in the office, yet still connects and has the same functionality of an office user. The Remote User must have their remote phone configured [...]
A form of solicitation for products or services that provides detailed information regarding those products or services and any additional details necessary for potential bidders to respond. Program applicants may issue RFPs in addition to filing the [...]
A letter issued by USAC to applicants and service providers when postcommitment changes occur to a funding commitment.
Your Hosted PBX is capable of grouping together many extensions into a single dialed extension. For example, if there are sales agents with extensions 220, 221, 222, and 223, then it is possible to assign a 'Sales' ring group which when dialed, [...]
A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks. Routers perform the traffic directing functions on the Internet. A data packet is typically forwarded from one router to another through the networks that constitute [...]
A person who occupies a position of authority for the applicant (typically a superintendent, assistant superintendent, principal, assistant principal, library director, assistant library director, county administrator, district administrator, or state [...]
One of the four universal service programs administered by USAC.
The software defined wide area network (SD-WAN or SDWAN) is a specific application of software-defined networking (SDN) technology applied to WAN connections, which are used to connect enterprise networks – including branch offices and [...]
A separate component of the Program Integrity Assurance (PIA) review process that follows up on certifications that applicants make on their FCC Forms 471 about the competitive bidding process and the necessary resources to make effective use of requested [...]
The request for information sent to applicants when they have been chosen for Selective Review.
The date that services will end for an FRN. USAC may adjust this date if a program violation is identified or a deadline is missed.
A company that participates in the Schools and Libraries Program and provides telecommunications or internet services, equipment, hardware, or software.
A unique number that USAC assigns to each service provider once that service provider has submitted the FCC Form 498 to USAC.
Service providers offer services for payment, on an ad hoc or ongoing basis. In computing, this can be a business that hosts network or storage servers. Internet and Internet Telephony Service Providers (ISPs and ITSPs) respectively offer connection to [...]
The date that services will start for an FRN. USAC may adjust this date if a program violation is identified or a deadline is missed.
A change in the products and/or services originally requested in an FRN.
A SIP phone uses Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) to initiate, manage and terminate voice communications sent and received as data packets via the internet. As a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) solution, SIP phone users can often call other SIP, [...]
Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) is an industry standard application-layer protocol that can initiate, manage and terminate Peer-to-Peer (P2P) communications and multimedia, including voice, video, [...]
SIP Trunking is a Voice over IP phone solution that uses a trunk to connect an IP-enabled PBX or VoIP Gateway to the internet. SIP Trunking uses cloud-based technology to take advantage of shared lines, such as a company's existing internet connection, [...]
A soft switch is the software equivalent of a physical telephone switchboard. Internet-based telephony and a growing number of traditional telecommunication networks use soft switches to manage the connection of phone calls.
A softphone is a piece of software for desktop, laptop or tablet computers that provides a functional Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone service. Softphones receive inputs from a microphone and outputs through the computer's speakers or a set [...]
See “FCC Form 473 (SPAC)”
See “FCC Form 474”
See “FCC Form 498” or “Service Provider Identification Number.”
A contract that is competitively bid and implemented by a state government which can be used by eligible entities within the state to procure products or services, or both.
A state master contract, filed pursuant to a state-filed FCC Form 470, which can replace an existing state master contract that expires before the end of the upcoming funding year.
A unique number that USAC assigns to eligible telecommunications carriers (ETCs) that uniquely identifies that company based on its service area. Companies must have at least one SAC per state in which they operate, but can have more than one SAC within [...]
features allow for provisioning protocol
The System Admin Module allows you to make changes to your Network Settings, DNS, Intrusion Detection System, Notification Settings, and Time Zone. It also allows you to power off or reboot your system, register a license to use Commercial Modules, and [...]
T.38 is an ITU recommendation for allowing transmission of fax over IP networks in real time.
Time-division multiplexing (TDM) is a method of transmitting and receiving independent signals over a common signal path by means of synchronized switches at each end of the transmission line so that each signal appears on the line only a fraction of [...]
Common carrier, as defined by the FCC, is an entity that provides telecommunications service including interexchange carriers, wireless carriers, and competitive local exchange carriers (also referred to as service providers).
Telephony can refer to the use, technology or provision of voice communications between two or more people some distance from each other. All telephony relies on the conversion of audio inputs into a form that is more suitable to be sent long [...]
Call termination, also known as voice termination, refers to the routing of telephone calls from one telephone company, also known as a carrier or provider, to another. The terminating point is the called party or end point. The originating point is the [...]
A communications circuit that interconnects switches. As such, multiple users and multiple transmissions can share a trunk on a pooled basis, with contention for trunk access managed by an intelligent switching device. There are many types of trunks. [...]
The UCP for EPM module allows for end users to use the FreePBX User Control Panel (UCP) to change and override any buttons that were set up for their phone for their phone by the Commercial End Point Manager. An end user's changes apply to his or her [...]
Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) is a delivery model in which a variety of communication and collaboration applications and services are outsourced to a third-party provider and delivered over an IP network, usually the public Internet.
Unified communications (UC) is the integration of real-time, enterprise, communication services such as instant messaging (chat), presence information, voice (including IP telephony), mobility features (including extension mobility and single number reach), [...]
Universal service is the principle that all Americans should have access to communications services. Universal service is also the name of a fund and the category of FCC programs and policies to implement this principle.
An independent, not-for-profit corporation created by the FCC in 1997 to administer the four universal service programs which help provide communities across the country with access to affordable telecommunications services.
Money collected from telecommunications companies and dedicated to fulfilling the goals of universal service. Under the authority of the 1996 Telecom Act, the FCC created the USF as well as the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), the organization [...]
Every school or library in the United States is located in either a rural or an urban area, based on U.S. Census data.
(Includes Fax, Call Forward, Call Waiting, End Point Manager, Voicemail, Find Me Follow Me, Change)
An additional phone number assigned to an existing phone line in order to save a caller long distance fees. For example, a virtual number with a Brazil country code can be assigned to a phone line in Portugal or to a phone line in most cities in the world. [...]
This module allows an individual or a group to be notified and optionally accept responsibility for a voicemail. Additionally, notifications can be sent out when someone claims responsibility for the voicemail.
This feature is controlled in the Hosted PBX User Panel. The VMX (Virtual Machine extension) locator allows for advanced control of a user's voicemail system. It is somewhat similar to the Follow Me feature; however it gives callers more control. [...]
A technology that allows users to make phone calls using the same line as an internet connection
A Category One service type on the Eligible Services List. Telephone services, such as Centrex, local and long distance, POTS, wireless telephone service, VoIP, etc. are voice services. Starting with FY2015, support for voice services will be reduced [...]
Voicemail is perhaps one of the most known and used feature of a phone system. Voicemail allows callers to leave a voice message which can be played back at a later date/time. By default, voicemails have two separate conditions/messages which can be played. [...]
Voicemail Notify (also known as "VM Notify") lets you configure a voicemail notification to monitor a mailbox for new messages. When a caller leaves a message in that voicemail box, the system will call the recipients you have listed until one of them [...]
There is now an easy way for System Administrators and Managers to review all users voicemail settings in one place as well as listen to all voicemails residing on the system from one report.
The voicemail to email Hosted PBX feature is a subscribed feature which when enabled, sends a copy of a user's voicemail message to their specified email address. This feature allows users to listen to their voicemail messages via email or smart-phone [...]
Service to electronically read recorded voicemails and turn them into a written email response.
A Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) gateway is used to compress, packetize, route, signal and decompress analog voice and fax communications from Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTNs) into digital form that can be sent over a public or private [...]
A Voice over Internet Protocol Private Branch Exchange (VoIP PBX) is a telephony switching system for internal calls that use Internet Protocol (IP), which also offers a number of traditional phone lines to be shared by users on the private network.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) refers to software or hardware that use the internet or a private Internet Protocol (IP) network in some way for voice communications. Analog signals, such as [...]
Virtual Queue Plus expands the options available in the PBX queues and allows you to assign dynamic queue penalty rules to escalate calls based on the length of hold time. VQ Plus also allows you to create Virtual Queues to manage queue behavior and expand [...]
Wide Area Telephone Service (WATS) was a flat-rate long distance service offering for customer dial-type telecommunications between a given customer phone (also known as a "station") and stations within specified geographic rate areas employing a single [...]
This term is used for a group of funding commitment notifications that USAC issues to applicants and service providers on a given date. Waves are usually issued weekly.
The Web Callback module allows you to easily add an HTML call me box to your website. Visitors simply put their phone number in to be connected with you, or a specific destination.
A web server is a computer system that stores and processes web page data, and which responds to client requests (i.e. inputs of the web page user) using Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP). The World Wide Web relies on a vast network of servers to collect [...]
This hotline allows members of the public to report suspected violations of program rules to USAC. These reports can be made anonymously and toll free by calling (888) 203-8100.
A Wi-Fi hotspot maintains a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) that permitted users can connect wireless devices to for internet access. Wi-Fi hotspots are becoming more common in public, retail, hospitality and commercial spaces, allowing devices without [...]
Wi-Fi phones can provide voice and data communications over the internet whenever a wireless signal is available. Residential customers with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) can use a Wi-Fi phone as a house phone, and also as a mobile phone usable at [...]
A voice, data, and/or video network that provides connections from within an eligible school or library to other locations beyond the school or library.
Wideband noise refers to the noise that remains on a wideband channel when all signals are removed.
Does your company do outbound dialing? Would you like to automate the process? If so, Xact Dialer is for you. Simply Start a Campaign and choose where your calls will be routed to. It even gives you the option to route calls based on whether they are [...]
The XactView module provides an easy-to-use GUI for editing the XactView server settings on your PBX. In general, XactView is purchased with the PBX and you won't need to change these settings. XactView is a desktop application that allows you to interact [...]
The XactView module provides an easy-to-use GUI for editing the XactView server settings on your PBX. In general, XactView is purchased with the PBX and you won't need to change these settings. XactView is a desktop application that allows you to interact [...]
Once configured, the IM server can be used with any Jabber/XMPP enabled client that is capable of configuring connections to local or corporate servers, including chat integration into iSymphony.
A Zenith number is a special type of toll-free telephone number which allowed a calling party to call the number's owner at no charge by ringing the operator and requesting the specified "Zenith", "Enterprise" or "WX" number.
Zulu UC Desktop Integration unifies the most popular business communication tools & applications enhancing user productivity. Designed specifically for Pulsar360 Corporation phone systems, Zulu enables features that you can find out more about [...]
The initial letter sent by USAC to recover funds from applicants or service providers who have committed program rule violations.
The minimum time period an applicant is required to wait after posting the FCC Form 470 before entering into any contract with a service provider.
A follow-up letter to a 1st Demand Letter sent by USAC in an attempt to recover funds from applicants or service providers who have committed program rule violations.
The officer of a service provider company who is authorized to certify that data set forth in the FCC Form 498 is true, accurate, and complete. The 498 Company Officer would typically be president, vice president of operations, vice president of finance, [...]
A person who occupies a position specified in the corporate by-laws (or partnership agreement), and would typically be president, vice president for operations, vice president for finance, comptroller, treasurer, or a comparable position.
What are you waiting for? Let's get started! Contact Us