Table of Contents:

Definition and Overview

1. Introduction

2. The Limits of Traditional Line Testing Equipment

3. How Line Testing Meets Telcos' Business Objectives

4. What a Line Test System Must Do

5. Uniformity

6. Transmission, Noise, and ISDN Tests

7. Noise Levels and Modems

8. Inward Tests to Localize Faults

9. Test Accuracy

10. Test System Integration with Records Verification

11. Test Results Analysis and Data Management

12. Nonvoice Calls and the Future of Line Testing

Self-Test

Glossary

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Definition
The increase of nonvoice calls has demanded a new approach to testing networks. Line testing in the coming years will require an integrated, flexible system to create a reliable network for the transport of voice and data.

Overview
This tutorial examines the history of line testing and the various challenges brought about by recent technological change, all within a service provider's business context. It also describes a comprehensive solution that is already cutting costs while supporting new services for a number of providers in a variety of locations and settings. The tutorial also discusses the major objectives that line testing must accomplish, from uniformity and test accuracy to the integration of test system results with records verification and data management systems. It concludes with a look at the future of nonvoice network traffic and the increasing challenges in the battle for customer loyalty and market-share.