Instruction manual

Attendant Console, Switched Loop
Display (Figure 2-4)
The SLAC contains an alphanumeric call information display. This module is built into the
top of the console. It contains a 16-character 5x7 dot matrix liquid crystal display, timer
controls, and a thumbwheel Contrast adjustment.
Timer functions are available only when
the attendant presses the Local button. The Time/Timer Exit button allows the user to select
ordinary clock/calendar display or a timer.
In the Time mode, Set, Fwd, and Rev are used to
set the clock. In Timer mode, Start and Stop are used to time events.
The primary purpose of the console display is to provide the attendant with descriptive
information about incoming and outgoing calls. This information includes extension numbers
and associated names, trunk identifiers, reasons for call return and redirection, and number
of calls waiting in the queue for service.
Refer to the “Display” feature description for a
detailed discussion of call information displays.
The console display also provides access to the system’s integrated directory and allows the
attendant to search for the extension numbers assigned to users. Refer to the “Directory”
description for information on this feature.
Switched Loop Operation
All calls that are intended for an attendant position are first routed by the system to a
common queue where they wait to be sent to a console. In a configuration having two
consoles, the same queue serves both consoles.
When an attendant console becomes
available to receive a call, the system removes a call from the queue and directs it to an idle
loop on the console. Calls are selected from the queue on the basis of “first in/first out” and
in accordance with administered priorities. An available attendant console is one that is not
active on a call, has no calls ringing, has at least one LOOP button idle, is not in Position
Busy or Inspect mode, and is not in a split condition.
In a two-console arrangement, each console can be administered to receive all types of calls
or to receive only specific types. A call that can be received by either position goes to the
first available attendant; when both are available, the call goes to the attendant who has
been idle the longest time. If one console is in “Position Busy” mode, all calls (except
Attendant PDC, Attendant PDC via DID, and DGC calls) direct to the other console.
An incoming call from the queue to a console appears on one of the five LOOP buttons; the
attendant is alerted to to the call by audible ringing, a steadily lighted red lamp, and a flashing
green lamp. While the call is ringing and while the attendant is handling the call, the system
will direct no more calls to the console. After the attendant ends or releases the call or puts
it on hold, another call can come in on an idle button.
It should be emphasized that even when all LOOP buttons on a console are idle, only one
call can be directed from the queue to the console. If the attendant puts a call on hold, that
LOOP button is no longer available, but a new call can come in on another button that is idle.
Answering a Call on a LOOP Button
At an available SLAC, an incoming call will ring at an idle LOOP button automatically selected
by the system.
The attendant has only to lift the handset to answer the call; pressing the
button is not necessary.
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