trixbox, branches, and linking into a PABX

[dsd]

I just wanted to get an idea of whether a concept is possible, or it we're walking down the garden path.

There are a bunch of what are effectively branches and we want to link them up to central support and ordering desk, as well as to each other. The support/ordering desk would still run on the normal (PSTN) PABX system. Each branch would still need to make normal calls over POTS, just ordering/support would go through the IP network.

What I thought could be done it use a trixbox at the central office and put something like a SPA3102 into each branch. The trixbox would need some FXO/FXS ports to connect to the PABX.

The incoming connections would be via a VPN over the internet. Each branch connects to the internet through its own service provider. I'm a little concerned about QOS over this type of connection.

What are the caveats to this setup? Is there something I'm missing?

Thanks

 

[ant101]

hey dsd,
I think what you are refering to is possible and more.
Trixbox's can also be placed in your "branches" and be used to get your branch phones on th ip network via a TDM400 card.
Connecting 2 or more trixbox's together requires a IAX trunk to be setup between them. Once you boxes are online you can route calls between any of the boxes and the call will breakout wherever the box is located, even if they are in other branches, or a support center as you mentioned.
If you worried on Qos don't skimp on the phones themselves.

As I understand this setup should work fine as I have heard of setups like this in sa.
Don't know much about the spa3102, but from a brief look it seems it could do the trick, just check to see its compatible with sa exchanges (it mentions usa only) and that you can link 'em.
have fun!

 

[dsd]

Thanks ant!

The SPA3102 only costs around R750, so it is pretty cost effective to put them into the branches.

I think the biggest challenge is going to be interfacing the trixbox to the PABX....I'm thinking there is a great possibility for hair pulling

 

[ant101]

PABX systems are pricey, but if its a old and cheap , maybe consider replacing it with the trixbox itself, that way you have an all in one system.

If not, trixbox has settings to interface to the lines on the PABX, you'll need the PABX manual I suppose to find out what code to dial to acccess the relevant line of the PABX. ( AFAIK there is a nice little empty box in the trixbox GUI waiting for you to enable this )

The SPA3102 looks like an interesting solution- have no idea how you interface that puppy!
Embedded stripped version of trixbox or asterisk I guess?

 

[dsd]

I want to connect a trixbox up to a Opticon PABX. My understanding of the Opticon system is that it is IP based, so theoretically (hahahaha) it should be relatively easy to connect a trixbox to the Opticon.

Is there anyone who has any experience trying this out? Can the Opticon and the trixbox play nicely together? Or do I have to try some fancy setup with FXS/FXO cards?