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AlphaCom 8.xx - Release Notes

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This document provides the release notes for AlphaCom 8 with incremental bug fix releases. The release notes for AlphaCom 8 describe new features, improvements and issues fixed after AlphaCom 7.

Software in production: AMC 09.01
Software released date: 2003-05-06
Note: Additional features available in 08.27
Note 1: We sometimes do bugfixes in older versions while working with a new version. You can’t read the list version by version, and always assume that a correction is included in the next. Be aware of high release numbers, e.g. 06.05 vs. 07.01. Check version dates, and also comments for each version.
Note 2: For each software version the NVRAM version is listed. If the NVRAM version is different, the AMC board must be coldstarted, and then you must do a SendAll from AlphaPro to restore the configuration.

AlphaCom 8.xx Release Notes

AMC 08.30 (2007-10-22)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.27.

Errors Corrected

Pager Protocol Problems Fixed:
-In some resending situation AlphaCom will resend a corrupt formated pager message.
-Superflush control characters received outside the ESPA definition or due to communicatio error can make the AlphaCom protocol handler block sending of new pager messages.

AMC 08.29 (2003-11-13)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.27.

Functional changes

Open Duplex Call mode option to $CALL Data Protocol message:
Call mode options, parameter 3 in $CALL Data Protocol message: New option: 128 / 0x80 (CSF_OPEN_DUPLEX): Force call to be in Open Duplex mode

Key trigger event FEAT_DIGIT_EVENT(105): Added start event:
Improvement of feature introduced in version 08.28: Report EventTrigger (15) when the FEAT_DIGIT_EVENT feature is activated. (%1 = station, %2 = Feature Directory number. %CHG = ON). Corresponding OFF-event when the feature is disconnected.

Conversation in “PNCI” mode: Digits reported as events:
Conversation with a station of type PNCI (Conversation with external system); New: Digits keys are reported to Event Handler as EventTrigger w/UserParam (25) with sub event equal to digit dialed 0-9. (%1 is calling station, %2 is PNCI.) The event is reported ON when the key is pressed, and OFF when it is released. (Many applications: Integration with cameras, recorders, PABX.)

Errors Corrected

ERR 1719: Mail in Idle: Mismatch between Current Mail and display text:
Corrected. The station display was not updated.

ERR 1723: Global Conference do not work with AE1:
Corrected. Illegal sub channels were used for AE1.

ERR 1738: AlphaNet call setup fails when all scanners are busy:
Description: When all scanners are busy the activation of an AlphaNet call will reset two active conversations, but still not start the AlphaNet call.
Changes made:

  • 1. The priority of the AlphaNet setup is now based on the priority of the initiating station. Previously it always used Alarm priority.
  • 2. The snatch of scanner routine is fixed to only snatch from one communication (if the communication has allocated 2 scanners.)
  • 3. The initiating and transit node(s) in an AlphaNet call will no longer require scanners, hence the bug fix in point 1 and 2 is no longer valid for err 1738 but will reduce call resets when snatching scanners by alarm priority call setup.

ERR 1745: Exchange reset when dialing too many digit during camp on for an AlphaNet line:
The reset occures when the AlphaNet reseourse becomes available again. If the sum of the number of digits dialed to reach the camp on queue and the digits dialed in the queue reach 9 the reset occured.

ERR 1746: Exchange reset during faulty conversation setup sequence:
Software error timers are used to control that a function sequence is performed within a limited time, or else the feature is canceled. In a high traffic system resources can be heavy loaded and thus activate the reset. A conversation cleanup could in some rare situations end in an exchange reset.



AMC 08.28 (2003-03-28)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.27.

Errors Corrected

ERR 1688: Answer Mail during off hook fails.
ERR 1693: Stations in privacy is not reported up/down to the group call alocator.
ERR 1694: Remote mail show 0 mails on proxy station.
ERR 1696: HotLine feature activated when lifting handset in conference.
ERR 1699: 9700 (93/1) causes reset when no pager defined.
ERR 1701: Connection cleanup after software error timeout.
ERR 1703: DualDisplay navigation key is not working in AlphaNet.
ERR 1704: Parallel Handling of Call Request.
ERR 1705: AMC-board, future battery problems.
ERR 1706: RIO do not communicate with AMC.
ERR 1707: EDO: Non printable ASCII 09 (TAB) is transmitted as multiple space characters.
ERR 1708: M-key in MultiModul conversation causes reset.
ERR 1711: Call Back mail not restored after reset.
ERR 1712: AGA station; Event type 17; not restored immediately after reset.

ERR 1714: Hebrew directory not in Alphabetical order:
Corrected.

ERR 1715: Simplex conf. to a not connected station is not cancelled:
 Corrected. Added conference disconnect code for "stations down"

Functional changes

Global flag: ignore_st_down_in_conv:
If station is reported down while in conversation no reset of conversation occurs, Station is reported down after conversation reset.

Global flag: no_prog_during_grcall:
Temporary disconnect all station from program while in groupcall.

New Station Bit Map Flags:
Previous configured as DAK features in COS:

  • Station flag bit 10 1 = FEAT_DAK_DISPLAY_DIRNO (DualDisplay)
  • Station flag bit 11 1 = FEAT_AUTO_CANCEL
  • Station flag bit 12 1 = FEAT_AUTO_DIR_NO_CONN
  • Station flag bit 13 1 = FEAT_AUTO_INQUIRY
  • Station flag bit 14 1 = Station has DAK display, can be used for CRM4 functionality in DualDisplay hardware

Load control default turned off:
Let the system go on full speed.

Possible to use param1 for feature 52 and 85:
This can be used to group event triggers by filtering on sub event type.

Key trigger event FEAT_DIGIT_EVENT(105):
When activating this feature all succeeding digits are reported to the event handler and is trigged as EVENT_TRIGGER(25) with sub event equal to digit dialed 0-9. The event is ON as long as the station key is down and reported off when key is released (can be used for camera control ++).
FEAT_DIGIT_EVENT with param1 = 0 display the digit hold down, with param1 different from 0 the display is not updated and can be updated by the event handler to indicate “left” “up”, “down” ++.



AMC 08.27 (2002-11-12)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.27.

Errors Corrected

ER 1687: MPC data protocoll:
Many carriage returns required on input command. The uart buffer is reset after restart

ER 1690 x827(611) RIO communication fails:
Reversed to previous uart drivers.



AMC X08.27 (2002-06-11)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.27.

Functional changes

AlphaNet Link Snatch:
AlphaNet links is set to lowest priority during line test. Previously the audio test had normal priority. Now normal priority call will snatch AlphaNet links under test if no other links available.

Number of Voice Messages Increased to 80:
It is now possible to use 80 stored voice messages. Thus change of NVRAM version.

Voice over IP functionality added. (Comuniq related):
New DP command DUPLEX_DELAY used to set delay on duplex switching in 10 ms intervals. This message follows the AlphaNet audio path to the destination exchange where the duplex switching takes place.

Event Trigger Related To Conference:
Conversation outgoing can be related to Conference directory numbers. It is now possible to use the event type 08-Conversation - Outgoing "When Related to” for conference directory numbers. The owner is the current speaker and %2.dir is the conference dir no. and %2.nam is the name of the conference.

Errors Corrected

ER 1683: Dial_Digit command during simplex conference:
$DD command is now working during conference and toggle feature etc.

Bug: HOTLINE call activated during conference:
Hotline call activated without any testing on active hotline flag on station during conference while using handset. (DealerCom DAK Display update bug fix. Not relevant to current systems)



AMC X08.27 (2002-05-03)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.26.

Functional changes

MPP optional parameters added:
The MPP command has been extended with three new parameters, beep code, repetitions (number of transmissions) and priority. All three parameters are optional and may be substituted by the wild card (*) character.
MPP <pager id> <sender> <"text"> <beep code> <repetitions> <priority>

New Data Protocol message for set station COS membership $SSC / 0x0090:
With this message a stations COS membership can be altered to any of the valid COS groups (1..16).
$SCC L105 U8

New Data Protocol message for modify COS contents $MCC / 0x0091:
Data Protocol messages for modify the contents (delete/add/toggle feature) in a COS group.
$MCC U5 U100 U2

Possible to define ASLT as AlphaNet audio:
ASLT lines can be programmed from AlphaPro to be used as AlphaNet audio links in the same way as AGA ports.

Errors Corrected

Bug in $ST timer after reset:
After reset all active event handler programmed timers was deleted.

ER 1685: Bug in Event Trigger Related To Global Group Call:
The initiator of the global group call is now available on the initiating node %1. For global group call the %2.dir and %2.nam will contain the global group directory number and name.



AMC 08.26 (2002-02-19)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.26.

Functional changes

Inquiry During Connection Changes:
To inhibit inquiry during private ringing and other unwanted situations, the FEAT_INQUIRY is changed to be context sensitive. It is now only available when the inquiring station is in a “clean” connection. The change applies both to FEAT_INQUIRY and FEAT_AUTO_INQUIRY. (This functionality was meant to be available in 8.25 but an unfortunate compiling did mess it up on the released version)

AlphaPro Data Compression:
Compression of data between AlphaPro and AlphaCom. A new version of the good old AlphaPro do an AMC version check and use compression if version is 8.26 or greater except for version 8.90 (Bank version). This means that both AlphaPro and AlphaCom are compatible in all version directions. It is possible to use a mix of new and old AlphaComs in an AlphaNet. The compressed frames will be tunnelled through old AlphaComs.

Changes FEAT_TRIG_EVENT and FEAT_TRIG_EV_SILENT:
It is now possible to do a FEAT_TRIG_EVENT and FEAT_TRIG_EV_SILENT during conversation as an inquiry that will return to the conversation. The previous version would reset the conversation after FEAT_TRIG_EVENT.

Menu Navigation From DAK Keys:
A new feature is implemented to send navigation directions to the menu system from DAK keys. (The navigation directions are the same system as used in nvram for programming directions of the station keyboard in menus: 7 => Left, 9 => Right, 2=> Go to previous level. etc)

FEAT_MENU_NAVIG, feature number: 97, Feature class: FCL MENU:
The param1 value indicate navigation direction: param1 Description 

0	Up to previous level in menu structure
1	Down to next level in menu structure
2	Go to previous (left) menu element on same level
3	Go to next (right) menu element on same level
4	Activate if possible, else navigate downwards
5	No action

Event Trigger Related To Group Call:
Conversation outgoing can be related to group call directory numbers. It is now possible to use the event type 08-Conversation - Outgoing "When Related to” for group call directory numbers. The owner is the initiator of the group call, and %2.dir is the group call dir no. and %2.nam is the name of the group. The %2.phy is always 0. The initiator of the group call will only be available on the initiating node in a global group call. For global group call the %2.dir and %2.nam will contain the global group directory number and name. %1 for group call is the initiator. Because there is no known initiator for global group call the %1 is directed to station 1 (system station).

New Directory Table Sort Algorithm: New sort algorithm to avoid reset during huge table sorting. Restriction: If you have more than 255 stations beginning with the same display text character, stations with this particular letter will only be sorted on the first display text character.

Special Inquiry Feature for DAK Keys:
Previous the DAK command “directory numbers during connection” used inquiry. The new solution is based on DAK using a new feature FEAT_AUTO_INQUIRY (feature no 102). The new feature is identical to the FEAT_INQUIRY. If DAK inquiry is wanted during conversation then include FEAT_AUTO_INQUIRY in COS (class of service). This makes it possible to stop inquiry from DAK and still have inquiry available during regular use (press 2 during connection). This feature applies only to the DAK command “directory number form idle”. “Directory number during connection” will have the same functionality as before.

DAK: Cancel Ongoing Conversation, Make New Connection:
This is available by including FEAT_AUTO_CANCEL (feature no 103) in COS. This feature will reset any ongoing call the station is active in before handeling the DAK key. This feature applies only to the DAK command “directory number form idle”. “Directory number during connection” will have the same functionality as before. If both FEAT_AUTO_INQUIRY and FEAT_AUTO_CANCEL are added to COS, the auto cancel will be the winning feature.

Use Directory Number During Connection and Directory Number From Idle on Same DAK:
This is available by including FEAT_AUTO_DIR_NO_CONN (feature no. 104) to COS. The feature find next event in DAK string if “directory number during connection” is received when station in idle. During connection the directory number from connection will run as before. It means that you have to program the DAK string with “directory number during connection” prior to “directory number from idle”. This command can be used for door opening during conversation. And thus you can use the same key for setting up conversation and opening the related door. DAK string “D 6 I 101” will dial up 101 if activated from idle and then open door if pressed during connection. Side effect: If several doors (D 6 I xxx), new DAK will open current door even if auto cancel is (104) enabled

New DAK E–command:
The E-command will only work for FEAT_TRIG_EVENT and FEAT_TRIG_EV_SILENT. The E-command activates the event without using the inquiry/parking functionality. Thus it is possible to activate the event a number of times during connection (inquiry is restricted to one time). The action that is taken is the same, independent whether the station is in conversation or not, it just triggers the event.

Voice Messages Increased to 30:
It is now possible to use 30 voice messages.

DealerCom Functions

The full DealerCom functionality will be available in AMC version 9.00 but some of the features is available in 8.26. The only usable feature for today’s stations is:

Alpha Numeric Name Search System:
A new search system like mobile phone address book. Use keys 1-9 to enter the (start of) the name. The “0” key is used as backspace to make it possible to correct the typed in text. To get out of the search menu the user must press the C key. When the user press select (“M” key) the first display line shows the name closest to the entered characters. By pressing “arrow up/down” the user can start stepping from the name displayed in first line like today’s name directory stepping after selecting character. The escape key (“2”) will bring the user back to the alphanumeric input for further editing of the search string. By pressing select in the user list there will be placed a call to the name shown in the display. Autoload AlphaNumSearch: Directory number 9537, Feature 21 param1 = 13. The characters related to each key can be edited in the MDF file.

Errors Corrected

ER 1673: Event Trigger with parameter:
If a station has physical number different from the user number, the Event Trigger with parameter (event type 25, feature 95) does not work for this station. In AlphaPro you specify the physical number as the event owner, but the event 25 seems to use the user number instead. Also if you use UDP group as owner it will not work as long as the user is different from the physical no.
Fix: The event 25 is changed from using user id to use physical number.



AMC 08.25 (2001-12-13)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.00.

Errors Corrected

ER 1670: Event trigger with param. shows "- Wait -" in display:
When dialling feature 95 (Event Trigger with parameter) the display shows "- Wait -". It should have shown "Dial", "Enter number" or similar.

ER 1671: Event trigger with param. lock up station:
When dialling feature 95 (Event Trigger with parameter) and no digits are entered within approx. 20 sec., the station will freeze. It will not respond to any digits and seems to be lock up "forever". When pressing C-key the station becomes OK approx. 10 seconds later.

ER 1672: DAK/Substation call key during private ringing locks station:
Station locks up by pressing the same call button twice.

ER 1678: Global Group - Busy when no local members:
If one of the local groups within a global group call has no listeners (the group is empty, or the initiator of the global group call is the only member of the local group, or all members have status "station down") the complete global group is blocked (busy).



AMC 08.24 (2001-11-08)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.00.

Errors Corrected

No event generated from fire alarm espa input:
Obsersvation: No event received in the event handler from Eltek fire alarm, only unexpected signal report on TST. Corrected: Replaced old event report signal from fire alarm handler (FAH) with new event report signal.



AMC 08.23 (2001-09-13)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.00.

Functional changes

Converting misinterpreted ID+C selections from CRM4:
To avoid false substation call problem when using more than 50 DAK keys on CRM4 stations. New nvram flag:
NVRAM: ex_profile.ID_and_IDM_to_IDC_CRM
When the flag is set all ID and ID + M selections (substation call) from CRM stations is converted to an ID+C selection. The CRM station should not make an ID or ID+M selection. If however an ID or ID+M is detected it is most likely a misinterpreted ID+C from the CRM4 . The ID+C is used for signalling the last 50 available DAK keys. If a CRM for some reason should be able to make substation call set the ID_and_IDM_to_IDC_CRM to false and avoid using more the 50 DAK keys. Cold restart will set ID_and_IDM_to_IDC_CRM to default true. On upgrade of old software the flag is set to false and can be set true be using TST console.

AMC X08.90 (2001-05-08):
All functionality from the AMC X08.90 is added, except for extension of the directory number table.

Support for new MBI and SBI:
New SBI/MBI hardware drivers for handling new ASIC versions.



AMC X08.90 (2001-05-08)

Release: Customer release for J.P.Morgan Chase
NVRAM version 08.90. 
New nvram version due to extension of directory number table.

Functional changes

Overlapping group call:
New behavior for group call defined with missing members. If any missing members in the group call the missing members will get a notification about the new group call with a tone and display text. No check for CRM 3/4 on display message broadcasting (notification text in line 2). The notification display message is removed when the group call is reset.

Find next group call:
Feature 96 directory number 9536. Feature dialed from a station to find and connect to next active group call. The new group call will be shown in the display for a short period of time.

  • If station already listen to a group call the feature will find next active group call for the station, if end of active list then start search in the beginning of active list.
  • If only one active group call the station will return to the same group call.
  • If the station was not listening to a group call then it will be connected to the first active group call for the station.
  • If no active group calls for the station the feature will return with failure tone.

This feature can be combined with the inhibit group call feature to connect/disconect to group calls.

Name directory scroll:
Alphabetic name directory scrolls from Z to A and A to Z.

Extension of directory numbers:
The directory number table has been extended with 1000 subscribers to 2600 subscribers.

No group call in conversation:
New nvram flag:
NVRAM: ex_profile.flags.no_grcall_in_conv
If set active stations that are in conversation will have similar behavior as missing member in overlapping group call. Stations in conversation get notification display text and tone. This flag is global for an exchange. Stations in conversation can connect to group call by using the “find next group call” feature. The notification display message is removed when the station reset the conversation. It means that the notification display message can remain in the display of a station after the group call is reset.

General change of behavior of group call:
If a group call has now listeners the group call is put in the busy queue. It means that undefined group calls and group calls with all members missing get the busy signal.



AMC 08.21 (2001-03-30)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.00. (Last signed EHj.)

Functional changes

Current Mail displayed in Idle on two line display:
The display in Idle will be like 

+-------------------+
| Message 2 of 3    |
| 102 Station 2     |
+-------------------+

provided one of the following conditions are satified:

  • The sender of the mail has specified the “MAIL_FLAG_IDLE_SHOW” option bit in the mail flags field in the mail message. MAIL_FLAG_IDLE_SHOW is bit 3 (value 4).

Or

  • The receiver station has the ShowMailIdle bit set in its Station Profile. In NVRAM: module_profile.st_profile[].flags, STFB_MAIL_IDLE = 9 (value 512)

Maximum simultaneous Global conferences increased to 12:
.. from 8. (Polizei Fulda)

Errors Corrected

ER 1664: 0 = menu : Fails at 6=door open, station is locked up:
Use 0 = menu during conversation. Press repeatedly , until 6=door open is reached. The station is locked up.

ER 1665: MPP with predefined mail and source station may fail:
If you use MPP with predefined mail and specifed source station from the eventhandler, or more than one MPP command in the same string, the text gets wrong. Either the same text every time or garbage.

CRM display queue wrong if mixed use of 7639 and 70:
Obsersvation: After using 70 to browse the mail queue on CRM, on AMC 08.20 the mail queue in the display remains at the same position when disconnecting from Idle. But if you dial 7638, it connect to sender of a different mail. Corrected: Display queue returns to current mail at disconnection from 70.



AMC 08.20 (2001-03-06)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.00
The NVRAM version as seen from AlphaPro is 08.01. The NVRAM state part has been changed.
If upgrading from AMC 08.00 - 08.18, the programming will remain in place, but the NVRAM 
state part will be emptied (mails, absence, transfers etc will be deleted). 
If Master flash backup is used, a new Master flash backup must be made after upgrade. 
Otherwise NVRAM state part will be emptied at every exchange reset!

Functional changes

This is just a brief summary. More in-depth information is found in a separate document.

Inquiry/Broker/Transfer supported across exchanges in AlphaNet:
(New messages: $PARK_INQ_BROKER, $UNPARK, $REQ_TRANSF_CALL)

Scheduling:
Program actions to be triggered at specified hours, weekdays or dates

Many general enhancements to the Event Handler:
giving it much more power

  • User Defined Data in Event handler (wudd, %udd, $wudd, $rudd). Event handler scripts can now have variables.
  • IF/ENDIF/STOP statements in Event Handler.
  • Event Handler general improvement: %xxx() macros can be nested freely. Formatting parameters can be added to all macros.
  • %OP(,,) macro for doing numeric calculations in Event Handler
  • %CLK : macro for reading real time clock in Event Handler
  • %SNG, %GNS, %SGM : macros for reading predefined groups in Event Handler
  • %1.MPRI : macro for reading mail priority in mail related events.
  • %1.REF, %2.REF REF return the context parameter as a complete NetObjRef (LocalDirno)

Event Trigger feature allowing user-parameter:
Can be used to build special functions from the Event Handler.

  • The parameter defaults to the sender of the current mail. Useful for queue handling.
  • New $DISCON_ST message to control the disconnection from the feature.
  • Many directory numbers can be dialed in sequence as parameter: Can be used to build "Dynamic Grouping" features.

Interval timer in Event Handler: $SET_TIMER/$ST:
Order timeout Event to be returned after specified time. Timeout value is specified with 100ms resolution, up to 1 hour 49 minutes. Several timers can run in parallel.

Navigation of mail queue, current queue position:
is maintained in Idle (CRM 3/4 only). Allows more efficient handling of a Call Request queue for the operator personnel.

  • Mail queue navigation features (763x)
  • $MAILQ_NAVIG
  • Events Reports when current queue position is changed, and when a new mail arrives first in queue

New Data Protocol message for call setup $CALL_SETUP / $CALL:
$CALL_SETUP / $CALL / 0x0008, easier to use than the $CONN message. More options to control the call setup.

$CONF_TALK + $CONF_TALK_STOP:
Data Protocol messages for controlling speech direction in Simplex Conference

Size of group which can receive mails:
The maximum number of stations in a group which can receive mails in a single operation is increased from 10 to 25.

Template Pocket Pagers and Direct Text Paging feature (9700):
Makes it possible to access many pocket pager receivers with minimal programming in AlphaPro

Gain adjustment work also for Simplex Conference:
Basic support for upcoming subscriber line board for Phillips stations (display not supported)

New optional parameter in $COPY_MAIL / $CPYM:
Mail flags can be changed.

Pause – statement:
Can be used to solve timing problems in Event Handler

Errors Corrected

ER.1652: Busy global group error:
Start local group call 84 in node 1, then from some other station in node 1 start global group call 9001: 9001 disconnects immediately, no busy tone. Then disconnect local 84. Global 9001 is still unavailable for a minute. Corrected.

ER 1656: If use Busy override towards conference talker:
Fails, the conference talker station is locked for ever. Corrected.

Corrected error in Stentofon Multidrop Protocol master – driver:
Problem was that polling started only after first outgoing message from AlphaCom. Corrected: Polling now starts immediately after reset.

ER. 1635: Dial 8300 (Open Duplex Conference off):
in Idle can lead to exchange reset. Corrected.

ER.1658: Busy camp on Gong let to exchange reset:
Observation: If an attempted groupcall gets access to the group, but the gong tone is busy, the excange resets. Error was introduced in AMC 08.10. Corrected.

ER.1659: Leapyear handling fixed:
Problem : The leapyear counter in the realtime clock was set to zero at zero at exchange reset. This means that for most practical purposes each year will be a leapyear, with february 29th. Corrected, the leap year counter is now recalculated at every reset.



AMC 08.12 (2000-11-15)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.00

Errors Corrected

ER.1651: Wrong mailtag in Q_ELEM_ADDED with groupmail:
Send mail to group with group-delete option on. If the mail is sent twice, so the existing mail is replaced, the mail-tag in $Q_ELEM_ADDED broadcast gets wrong. Corrected.



AMC 08.11 (2000-09-12)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.00

Functional Changes

Most parameters of SEND_MAIL/SENT_TEXT_MAIL are now optional:
This makes it simpler to send mails from EventHandler. Minimum message to send a Call Request:
$SM l101 l102
Minimum message to send a free text mail:
$STM L101 L102 U100 ‘text 16’
Refer to the latest AlphaCom Dataprotocol document for details.

Errors Corrected

Initiator of groupcall should not hear other groupcalls:
As a effect of the Groupcall allocation upgrade made in AMC 08.10, the initiator of a groupcall is available for incoming groupcalls. We have received comments on that this is undesirable. From this version the initiator of a groupcall will not receive incoming groupcalls.

Changed from dot to slash for XD2/OD2 date:
Observation: if using US date order in the MDF file, the date is printed like “mm.dd” in the station display. This has been changed to “mm/dd” on request from SCI/Chase

ER.1644: Text of EXT_MAIL message is wrong for freetext mail:
Corrected.

ER.1645: Errors related to forwarding for call requests:
a: send-mail message is forwarded to wrong device addresses. The error appeared if the mail message was sent from an external device or from the Event Handler.
b: Hop-counter was wrong if the optional parameters in SEND_MAIL are left out, mail could be dropped without reason
c: if the hop count get too large, the mail is now put into the queue of the current station.

ER.1647: DP message $conn : busy override on A-station failes:
Error was introduced in AMC 07.60. Corrected.



AMC 08.10 (2000-07-07)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.00

Functional Changes

Mail timeout – Event handling:
See Application Note “Timed Events.doc” for introduction and details.

  • New DP message: ($SMT) SET_MAIL_TIMEOUT <station> <mail_tag>
  • New event: MAIL_TIMEOUT. Occurs when the mail entry’s timer reaches 1 (10 seconds before automatic delete). The event occurs on the station where the mail is queued. The event is only reported ON.
  • New action parameter: %2.TAG. Each mail contains an unique mail identification, the so-called mail tag. This is a 16-bit unique value that must be supplied to other action commands which does operations on the mail queue.
  • New DP message: ($CPYM) COPY_MAIL <station> <mail_tag> <new destination> <priority>

The full mail is sent to another station (/group of stations). Alternatively, the mail can be inserted in own queue on a higher or lower priority.

Groupcall allocation – more flexiblity for simultaneous groupcalls:
A new option allow a groupcall to proceed even if not the entire group is free. For each groupcall it will be possible to program the number of group-members which can be ommitted due to busy. The default value will be zero, which is equivalent to the traditional allocation. If the number of busy members are less than the limit, the groupcall proceeds without the busy members. Otherwise, if the number of busy station is higher than the limit, the groupcall will be queued as before. Programming this option will require AlphaPro 08.10.

Limitation: There is no indication to either parties that somebody has missed a groupcall.

Disconnect From Groupcall function (7884 / C-pres in idle) is also significantly improved: When a station has disconnected from a groupcall, the station will be available for new groupcalls. This also applies to the Group Call Filter function (793x). If a station has filtered a low priority groupcall, the station will be avaliable for a highpriority groupcall. This will not require any AlphaPro programming, this is a general change in the way AlphaCom operates.

TST service function: List global group member nodes:
A new TST service command is added: Type “globgrp” to see which exchanges which are registered for each global group. The exchanges in an AlphaNet will automaticly learn from each other which other exchanges are member of each global group. But in event of trouble it can be useful to be able to list this data.

Errors Corrected

Data protocol message CALL_TRANSFER_OK reference corrected:
The application header reference of CALL_TRANSFER_OK was not the one given in the application header reference of CALL_TRANSFER. Corrected.

Display “Not authorised” if call rejected due to restriction:
If a call is call rejected due to “No calls from group” restriction, the caller will now get a message in the display. Previously it was no distinction between rejection due to programmed restriction or rejection due to HW failure.

Eventhandler short form %1n, %2n repaired:
Observation: The shortform %Xn for %X.name did not work from AMC 08.03. Corrected.

Error handling of APC anomalities adjusted:
Handle some problems at a single customer (Marburg).



AMC X 08.10 000615

Release: Experimental, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.00
Developed for testing. (Built using new PC-tools)

Functional Changes

Stentofon Multidrop Protocol additional features:
Developed for ColSys intergration:

  • AlphaNet devices (not just nodes) can be slaves on a multidrop link
  • Support for one-par RS485 bus added (previous version required two-pair link). Automatic adaption to bus-configuration
  • Added support for linkbroadcast to linkaddress 0xff

AlphaNet Audio setup timeout made programmable:
The timeout for acknowledge messages used during audiosetup between exchanges in AlphaNet is now made programmable. ex_profile.timeouts.audio_link_timeout This is intended for experiments on using dial-up ISDN lines for AlphaNet. Autoload value is 2 seconds.

Display menu navigation improved: rotate backwards:
When navigating the “60 Info” menues: Earlier versions will rotate from last to first element when stepping forward (9), but stop on first element when stepping backwards (7). In this version stepping stepping back from first element also rotates to last element.

Errors Corrected

Exchange failed to start even with Master Flash:
ER 1634: Master-flash feature developed in version 07.16 to ensure AMC operation even if AMC battery fails does not work properly. If shorted battery, AMC cycles between red indicator and HW reset. (A stack overflow error bombs the restart-timestamp-log, so that the 4-resets during 10 last minutes does not work.)
Corrected: After power-up with shorted battery, AMC resets 4 times rapidly, and then comes up OK.

Global groupcall blocked by faulty lines:
ER.1639: Observation: If an exchange that is member of a global group goes down, the global group call becomes unavailable. When dialling the groupcall, the groupcall is disconnected immediately. The error was introduced in AMC 08.02.’ Corrected.

Hide flag does not work on first element in menu:
ER.1636, observation: Program 3 first groupcalls as "hidden". 84, 85, 86. Enter groups menu, jumps to 87, OK. Press 7, goes to 84, which is an error. Corrected.



AMC 08.04 (2000-05-25)

Release: Official, available on request 
NVRAM version 08.00
Developed for Morgan Stanley, London.

Errors Corrected

AlphaPro can not program remote AMC 08.0x via AMC 07.0x:
ER 1637: Max size of dataprotocol messages was increased from 64 to 68 in AMC 08.00. The remote AMC 08.0x thus sends datablocks to AlphaPro which are too large to pass through the transitt AMC 07.0x. Correction: Reduced message size used for AlphaPro to original size.



AMC 08.03 (2000-05-10)

Release: Official, available on request
NVRAM version 08.00

Functional Changes

Gain adjustment for group calls:
Developed for Morgan Stanley, London. See Application Note “Feedback control.doc” for details. In order to avoid feedback problems in group calls, the audio level gain in group calls can be reduced. This is done by routing the groupcall audio via AGA ports, allowing adjusting the level using the potmeters. AGA ports used for this purpose must be programmed in the “board use” table as value 5 (“reserved 5” in AlphaPro 08.01).

%2.NOD(length,filler) event parameter gets node number:
The node number of event sources are now available in the Event Handler. %1.NOD( ) is the node of the event owner, always this exchange %2.NOD( ) is the node of the related-to station in a remote exchange.
This information can be used to address a data protocol command to the station in a remote node. Example: When you have an incoming conversation, the calling station shall not receive group calls. @U%2.nod() $GFLT L%2.dir() U4



AMC 08.02 (2000-03-30)

Release: Official, available on request
NVRAM version 08.00

Functional Changes

Two line display names:
Developed for Stentofon Israel. Requires AlphaPro 08.02. This feature makes it possible to identify an user using two lines in the station display. This works for the idle station display, during conversation, during conversation across AlphaNet
The second name part is entered in the directory number table with feature/id equal to the standard user (first line) name, but with the HIDE flag set. Thus it’s possible to have two line names for all users in one exchange, on the other hand it is handled that only some stations have two display lines. MDF file must be modified using new operators $na2 and $xp2.
Two line names does NOT work for other features like Name list, Mails queue entries, Event handler %1.NAM, Data protocol commands with name parameters.

Data protocol message for setting group membership:
Sets membership of one station for one group. This will not be syncronized with AlphaPro, will be overwritten by a SendAll. Message name/ID: $GROUP_MEMBERSHIP / $GRM / 0x0081 / 129

  • 1. NET_OBJ_REF: Station
  • 2. NET_OBJ_REF: Station group
  • 3. UINT1 : Operation: 0 = Out ;1 = Into; 2 = Toggle

Event “Faulty station line”:
Event “Faulty station line” is also generated on Off-Hook-Too-Long timeout and Tone Test Failure. (Previously generated display mails and printer log only).

Global group call override:
We have changed the handling of the situation where global group call members in remote exchanges or AlphaNet lines to remote exchanges are priority snatched. In earlier versions the whole group call was not cancelled, only the “down-stream” part of the call. The initiator did not notice that part of the global group call call was cancelled. We have realized that this was a bad design choice, so now the whole group call will be cancelled, with failure tone to the initiator.



AMC 08.01 (2000-02-09)

Release: Official, released for production
NVRAM version 08.00
New main version with new complete and restructured documentation. 
The following description is not complete, see system documentation for details.

Functional Changes

Two price versions:
Full version + basic version without AlphaNet support.

Support of AlphaCom M exchange!:

  • RCIs from UART handshake pins
  • Can feed program from subscriber lines
  • AGA default functionality moved to lower board positions
  • No muted busy (comes from full APC board only)

AlphaNet additions:

  • Global Simplex Conference, speakers/listeners/default_member in different exchanges
  • Error reporting (logging) via AlphaNet to one central exchange and/or PC

Various features / improvements:

  • Simplex Conference with M-key override and Talk allowed priority
  • Configurable Group Call Filter; filter on Group Call setup priority (avoid group call setup) )
  • Number of RCIs (Remote Control Inputs) extended from 60 to 140
  • Data protocol messages related to external control of Open Duplex Conference
  • Inquiry from Open Duplex Conference
  • Calls comes in in open if B-station is in Call Requester Mode
  • DAK programmed with D-code can be used in AlphaNet conversation.

System error monitoring / maintenance:

  • Faster exchange reset, board startup part.
  • Extended line monitoring option: CD-reversal test also in on-hook to detect CD-open.
  • Improved handling of NVRAM disturbances due to battery problems
  • Remote TST console feature (login to nodes and slaves! “rlogin”)
  • TST “err” error listing improved, list all in one go, sorted on time
  • Warning to print-port if realtime clock has stopped due to low battery
  • Mail messages / Call Requests are deleted automatically after one week, avoid that mail sent to missing stations fill up the buffers.
  • Event handler re-indexes immediately after reset, not after one minute.

Errors corrected

  • ER 1314: Dial prefix + remote number: Correct A-name and number now shown at B. Call request also cancelled (ER 1621)
  • ER 1441: Printout of TST-error message with a line exceeding 80 characters caused exchange reset.
  • ER 1485: Priority override global groupcall now works immediately
  • ER 1504: Busy override on PNCI failed
  • ER 1582: Callback (8) in AlphaNet conversation now gives success tone
  • ER 1622: Corrected display of “semi remote” number during dialling
  • ER 1620: Busy Notify towards AlphaNet conversation resulted in override




Hardware Versions

Only one version used.

Known problems

Reset due to old battery:
Observation: The exchange resets with weeks in between, then more and more often until it will not start at all.
The problem is due to the battery charging from 15V. The battery + signal is connected to a power supervisor/reset IC, and old batteries load the charging circuit so little that the battery + signal goes over +5V, and then the power supervisor IC activates reset (undocumented property of the IC).
Workaround: Solder a Zener diode 4.3 V over the battery. Observe that this solution corrects the reset problem, but the battery may discharge somewhat faster in storage (no problem in exchange).

AlphaCom M - Temperature Alarm:
The series 1 AlphaCom Ms has a temperature sensor which is not calibrated properly. The exchange will generate a Temperature Alarm too early.
Workaround: Remove programming in AlphaPro for RCI 8 which is the temperature alarm.

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