A numeric IP address, which often can be translated into a webpage address (External IP Address) or a computer`s address in an intranet (Internal IP Address). Computers use IP addresses as identifiers.

See VoIP

Non-visible part of the EMS (Electromagnetic Spectrum) which can be used as a wireless communications medium. Line-of-sight transmissions only.

Integrated services over a traditional telephone line. The line is altered at the exchange to provide either an ISDN2 or ISDN10/20/30 connection. ISDN2, also called BRI, is a converted single copper pair into two 64 kbps `B` channels which may be used for voice or data. There is an additional 16kbps `D` data signal channel created also. ISDN2 can be used to provide 2 voice lines on the same copper pair. ISDN10/20/30, also called PRI, is a converted single copper pair (ordinary telephone line) into thirty 64 kbps `B` channels which may be used for voice or data. There is an additional 64kbps `D` data signal channel created also. ISDN10/20/30 can provide 10, 20 or 30 voice channels over the same copper line.

Company which retails internet connections to customers. An IAP (Internet Access Provider) wholesales bandwidth to ISPs, who in turn package and sell the bandwidth to the end customers. ISPs have also extended their range of products, often providing website hosting and other products.

Presentation of a phone bill on a call-by-call basis. Itemised calls show call information such as: number called from, date of call, time of call, number called, duration of the call, and the cost of the call. Often additional information is supplied, such as: rate plan applied to that call, whether the number dialled is considered OnNet, and others. Aussie Phone Brokers makes use of this information to recalculate each phone call according to a range of plans applied.

Interactive Voice Response - is the interface between your phone and a computer system. It is the voice recording that asks you to select an option when accessing such things as voicemail.

Object based programming language. Intended to replace C++. (Mentioned in this glossary to note that Java and JavaScript are not the same thing.)

Script language which can be embedded into the HTML of a web page to add functionality. Unlike a programming language, a script is simplified and does not need to be compiled, the source code is embedded into the HTML of a webpage. Developed by Sun Microsystems, JavaScript is open source and may be used without purchasing a licence.

See Spam

A popular satellite communications frequency band operating between 10-18 GHz.

Local area networks are independent fixed wire networks that make up your fixed network. Cables and wires connect each device to your servers. LANs are the most common type of networks used, but this may not be the case for long - wireless local area networks are becoming more popular.

A network of computers within a home, office or group of buildings. Often connected via Cat-5 cables (the `blue computer network cables`) or by local wireless connections (eg. wireless routers).

Also called a Fixed Line service, Fixed Wire service, Wired service, Telephone line, POTS (Plain Old telephone Service) Phone line, Land Line, CO Line, Central Office Line and Copper Connection. These are the traditional copper telephone connections, from an exchange (CO) to a premises. Today landlines also describe fibre optic telephony lines. Generally speaking, a landline is a non-wireless telephone line.

A flat display used in electrical equipment. Early versions were two-toned, but today LCDs are colour. LCDs are used on handsets; both mobile (including PDA, etc.) and landline handsets.

Programming of a PABX to use different lines or override codes to obtain the best call rate for differing call types or time of day calling. For example: When calling a mobile phone, a PABX which has been LCRed may use an alternate (cheaper) carrier for that call. This is simply done by prefixing the dialled number with a four digit override code. The user does not see or notice the LCR taking place.

A dedicated telephone line assigned from one location to another. Set up by a telecommunications carrier, the connection is said to be a leased line. Typically used by businesses to connect geographically distant offices, leased lines are more expensive than other methods available today (eg. VPNs). Leased lines offer an inherently secure, fast and always-on connection.

Small, bright, light source that uses very little power and does not burn out. LEDs may emits visible, UV or IR.

LEO satellites are more common than GeoSats because it is cheaper to place them in LEO and they need less powerful amplifiers for transmitting. LEO is an orbiting height of between 200 and 2000 kms and the satellites travel at about 27,400 kmph to maintain their orbit - providing a period of orbit of around 1 hour and 30 minutes. This means that constant coverage to an area on Earth must be provided using a network of LEO satellites. (This is unsuitable for some communications requirements and so geostationary orbit satellites are also used - see Geosynchronous Satellite.)

The number of lines of text which can be displayed on a handset without scrolling. Not to be confused with CND (Calling Number Display).

The fee charged by a telephone carrier for the connection to their network. Distinct from usage charges, this fee is a flat access fee.

A stationary wireless broadband link which must be operated in line-of-sight. 3-5km ranges are expected.

Calls made between standard telephone services within the same charging zone or to adjacent standard charging zones, and charged at a flat rate. However, local calls from ISDN services are timed and do not have a flat charging structure.

A charging arrangement that allows dial-up internet users to access their (ISP) Internet Service Provider for the cost of a local call, irrespective of their distance from the physical point of presence (PoP). See 019 numbers.

The telephone exchange (see CO) which a standard telephone service is physically connected to. This is usually the closest exchange, but not always.