ATLANTA-BellSouth Corp. said it has developed an affordable, network-based solution to help wireless carriers meet the Federal Communications Commission guidelines for Phase I compliance for wireless enhanced 911 call processing. The Phase I solution recently was made available to carriers in Tennessee.
Phase 1 involves modifying BellSouth’s 911 network to convert data already being delivered by the wireless carriers. BellSouth’s solution provides automatic number identification, Pseudo ANI and voice in a format compatible with both public safety answering points and wireless carriers. The PSAPs are then able to identify the callback number and cell site where the call originated.
“Because of the digital requirements for this product, current digital switches will be upgraded initially,” said BellSouth group manager Eric McCall. “Existing analog switches will be updated as needed to meet wireless carrier and public-safety agency demand.”
“Our solution also will position us as a solution provider for Phase II compliance, which is required in 2001,” said McCall.