Most NIH telephone users have one of four types of telephone services. Click on a service title for additional information:

• ISDN Systems Information
• Electronic Key Systems such as the Merlin System
• 1A2 Key Systems (generally a 6-button beige phone with a red HOLD button)
• Analog Single Line

Interrelated components of the NIH Phone Systems:

• ISDN Quick Reference Guide
• Dialing Plan
• NIH Telephone Feature Access Codes
• Repair Information
• ISDN Modem Pool Information
  

Analog Single Line

Analog single lines telephones are generally not part of a larger telephone system. Optional switch features can be accessed via dial access codes. Telephones on the Telecommunications Improvement Project (TIP) contract allow button activation of switch features. If voice mail is used, you will receive "stutter" dial tone or visual message waiting indication, depending on the type of telephone set. A separate analog line must be used if you need access to a modem or a fax machine.

1A2 Key Systems

Many NIH telephone users still have a 1A2 Key Set. These sets are characterized by their bulky appearance, a thick gray wire extending from the back of the set, and the direct line selection available through one of the lighted buttons at the bottom of the set. These sets usually include a red Hold button on the far left, and an Intercom button on the far right of the button pad. When using 1A2 Key Sets, features are accessed by depressing the switch-hook, or by dialing a code, such as 172 for Call Forwarding. 1A2 Key is obsolete and offers no expandability. In addition, replacement parts are no longer manufactured.

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Electronic Key Systems (e.g., Merlins / Merlin Legends)

Electronic Key Equipment at NIH include the Merlin and Merlin Legend Systems. Their common features include a modular telephone set with individual and/or pooled line selection, built in speakerphones, preprogrammed feature buttons (Conference, Transfer, Hold, Drop, and Recall), and user-programmable feature buttons. In addition, you can dial feature activation codes to access other features, such as 106 to activate a 6-Way Conference. Electronic Key Systems require a system administrator to configure system changes. Merlin Legend systems are designed to accommodate a maximum of 80 lines and 144 telephones, and deployment is limited to a small area.

ISDN

Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) provides users with the same features available on Electronic Key Systems, plus the capability for simultaneous voice, data, and video applications. In the past, it was necessary to have separate telephone lines to accomplish both voice and data applications. With ISDN, you have access to both applications on a single telephone line. In addition, the NIH digital switch provides modem pooling, making modems and separate data lines unnecessary. Most data applications will still use the IC's Local Area Network (LAN) because it provides higher bandwidth. NIH can meet virtually all agency telecommunications requirements of the future with ISDN.

Click here for more details about ISDN at the NIH.

Click here to use the ISDN Quick Reference Guide

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for additional Information:

All NIH Telecom requirements must be processed through the Telecommunications Infrastructure Branch
Call:	301-496-4357 (301-496-HELP)
E-mail:	helpdesk@nih.gov or Visit NIH Support at:http://support.cit.nih.gov/
TDD/TTY:	1-800-438-8832