SARK UCS/MVP Version 2 Overview

Introduction

SARK UCS/MVP Version 2, is a true VOIP/Analogue Unified Communications Server based upon a hardened CentOS platform. The underlying switch is provided by Digium's Asterisk with its switching logic moved to a single, lightweight C code AGI.

Philisophically, SARK UCS/MVP is somewhat different to other Asterisk workbenches. The general design aim of the tool is that it operate in a "user-assist" mode most of the time. In other words, SARK UCS/MVP hides the complexities of the Asterisk configuration from the user (and automatically generates most of it with little or no user input) but does not deny access to it for those users who wish to modify elements of the underlying system manually.

As delivered, the workbench has on-board the following features:-

• Ready-to-use templates for many of the more popular VOIP carriers and IP Devices.
• On-board Sipura ATA & spa3000 gateway support and DHCP 66 aware TFTP provisioning
• On-board Sibling support which makes it easy to operate a group of servers, each handling a part of the communications problem.
• Full callforward processing logic (with both loop and spiral detection), including;
  • Call Forward Immediate to Voicemail (Do Not Disturb)
  • Call Forward Immediate to another extension
  • Call Forward Immediate to an external number (subject to authorised approval)
  • Call Forward on Busy to Voicemail
  • Call Forward on Busy to another extension
  • Call Forward on Busy to an external number (subject to authorised approval)
• Automatic detection and configuration of Analogue lines and extensions (X100P? and TDM4xxB? & HFC BRI).
• Scalability via seamless distribution of extensions and trunks across multiple discreet servers
• The concept of routes as outbound number class handlers
• Outbound dialled number transformation to cope with foreign and E164 carriers.
• Automatic failover in the event of carrier failure, either locally or to a remote server
• Intelligent management of local calls which must go out over analogue lines
• Automated BLF management and provisioning for Operator terminals such as the Snom 360 with extension BLF pad.
• On-board FOP (Flash Operator Panel) automatically configured on the fly as a result of AMACs.
• Conferencing
• Clustering (multiple virtual PBX's) for managed office applications
• Infinite Multi-level IVR
• In-flight, dynamic system reconfiguration after AMACs
• Up to 6 generations of regression available in real-time.
• Greeting creation sub-system
• Remote extension support (symmetrical RTP)
• Native MOH (no MPG123 or whatever)
• Infinite level Number aliasing (virtual extensions)
• Freeform ring-groups (internal & external)
• Freeform hunt-groups (internal & external)
• Time management package
• Protected DISA support
• Dial by name
• Follow me
• Queues & Agents (agent can service multiple queues)
• Full graphical CDR reporting package
• Custom Applications
• An advanced, open ended sub-system for automatic (DHCP 66) provisioning of SIP terminals. Most popular terminals (Snom, Cisco, Aastra, Linksys) are supported "out-of-the-box".
• A unique "dynamic proxy" capability which allows remore log-in and modification of SIP terminals without the need for any pre-definition.
• Automatic discovery and "adoption" of new SIP terminals.