This second edition provides a thorough introduction to the terms and concepts needed to understand ISDN. The book helps readers understand the various types of ISDN services and hardware available and which are right for them. Users will want to know which equipment and software to buy and how to get it set up and running.

This invaluable resource, written especially for individual dial-up and small business users, explains in nontechnical language exactly what a high-speed connection can do for you. You'll learn about the background of ISDN, the ISDN architecture, as well as the hardware and software that are now available. Analyze your needs and select the best type of ISDN connection for you * Obtain the necessary telephone service * Secure an ISDN connection from an Internet service provider * Install ISDN hardware on your computer * Set up your Internet software for ISDN * Get the most out of the Internet and World Wide Web using your ISDN connection The authors also provide lists of ISDN resources: ISDN carriers, ISDN service providers, and capability requirements.

This introduction to ISDN has been revised and expanded for this edition. It places special emphasis on ATM and Frame Relay applications, products and services. New material is included on NI (National ISDN) and AIN (Advanced Intelligent Network). There is

Trusted telecommunications expert Uyless Black has put together a complete yet accessible guide to the basics of narrowband signaling and the specifications for ISDN and SS7. He also discusses the potential applications of the protocol, including video conferencing, Internet access, and mobile and wireless 800 service.

This text goes into the principles of all facets of the ISDN operation, giving an overview to set the operations in context and to act as an introduction to detailed standards, recommendations and specifications. The author looks at short and long term applications of ISDN that have become apparent since the first edition in 1990. New terminal equipment has emerged and this is described in chapter 8. Other additions include a more detailed consideration of supplementary services and an update on the situation on inter-PABX signalling and Broadband ISDN. An annex explaining the use of SDL in specifying ISDN interfaces is provided.

ISDN will solve the problems every telecommuter, small business and home office user faces today: too many expensive phone lines, not enough speed and access to information. With a single ISDN line from the phone company, you can fax/phone/surf the net/videoconference at ten times the speed of one normal phone line. The CD-ROM includes the complete book text in searchable Adobe Acrobat format, plus the 500+ page North American ISDN Users Forum Application Catalog.