LINE TESTING IN A TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK

摘要

A centralised test apparatus (18) is provided for a telecommunications network which includes local switches (12, 16), and a core network (14). Each local switch is connected through terminating lines to terminating equipment such as telephone handsets. The test apparatus (18) enables a field engineer to obtain the identity of a terminating line from one of the local switches. When a field engineer dials the number of the test apparatus (18), the test apparatus retrieves the calling line identity on answering the call. It then transmits the calling line identity in speech form back to the calling line. After transmitting the calling line identity, the test apparatus (18) offers a menu of further services which comprise a ring back service and the provision of a test tone on a specified telephone line.