ISDN terminal adaptors: a technology overview

Terminal adaptors (TAs) offer users a way to access the benefits of ISDN (high-speed throughput, error-free transmission, multiple line-sharing, local access to packet-switched networks, automatic number identification, and sophisticated diagnostics) without buying more expensive (and largely unavailable) ISDN-type terminals and computers. The TA can be viewed much like a modem, except that the modem connects terminals to the traditional analog network, whereas the terminal adaptor connects those analog-network terminals to the ISN network. Terminal adaptors will come to replace many modern installations, as users gradually convert from analog telephone lines to ISDN lines for their high-speed communications needs. The author discusses ISDN basics, TA fundamentals, rate adaption and features of available TAs.<>