Digium Hx8 Series User manual

Hx8 Series
HA8/HB8
User Manual
601-00016 Rev. A

Digium, Inc. Page 2
© Digium, Inc. 2010
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be copied, distributed, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a
retrieval system, or translated into any human or computer language without the prior written
permission of Digium, Inc.
Digium, Inc. has made every effort to ensure that the instructions contained in this document
are adequate and error free. The manufacturer will, if necessary, explain issues which may
not be covered by this documentation. The manufacturer’s liability for any errors in the
documents is limited to the correction of errors and the aforementioned advisory services.
This document has been prepared for use by professional and properly trained personnel,
and the customer assumes full responsibility when using it.
Adobe and Acrobat are registered trademarks, and Acrobat Reader is a trademark of Adobe
Systems Incorporated.
Asterisk, Digium, Switchvox, and AsteriskNOW are registered trademarks and Asterisk
Business Edition, AsteriskGUI, and Asterisk Appliance are trademarks of Digium, Inc.
Any other trademarks mentioned in the document are the property of their respective owners.
Digium, Inc.
445 Jan Davis Drive
Huntsville, AL 35806
United States
Main Number: 1.256.428.6000
Tech Support: 1.256.428.6161
U.S. Toll Free: 1.877.344.4861
Sales: 1.256.428.6262
www.digium.com
www.asterisk.org
www.asterisknow.org

Digium, Inc. Page 3
Safety Certification and Agency Approvals
Safety:
US/CSA 60950
IEC 60950
EN 60950
IEC 60950-1:2001 First Edition
AS/NZS 60950
Other:
CE Mark
2002/95/EC Restrictions on Hazardous Substances (RoHS), 2005/747/EC
lead free exemption (Annex C)
Telecom:
FCC Part 68, ANSI/ITA-968-A, Including Amendment A1 and A2
AS/ACIF S031
PTC 220
TBR3
TBR4 November 1995 as amended by TBR4/A1 December 1997
EMC:
FCC Part 15 Class B
EN55022/CISPR22 Class B
EN55025
IEC 61000

Digium, Inc. Page 4
Federal Communications Commission Part 68
This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC rules and the
requirements adopted by the ACTA. On the back of the Hx8 Series
printed circuit board is a label that contains, among other information, a
product identifier in the format US:AAAEQ##TXXXX. If requested, this
number must be provided to the telephone company.
A plug and jack used to connect this equipment to the premises wiring
and telephone network must comply with the applicable FCC Part 68
rules and requirements adopted by the ACTA.
The REN is used to determine the number of devices that may be
connected to a telephone line. Excessive RENs on a telephone line may
result in the devices not ringing in response to an incoming call. In most
but not all areas, the sum of RENs should not exceed five (5.0). To be
certain of the number of devices that may be connected to a line, as
determined by the total RENs, contact the local telephone company. For
products approved after July 23, 2001, the REN is part of the product
identifier that has the format US:AAAEQ##TXXXX. The digits
represented by ## are the REN without a decimal point (e.g., 03 is a REN
of 0.3).
If your Hx8 Series card causes harm to the telephone network, the
telephone company may notify you in advance that temporary
discontinuance of service may be required. But if advance notice is not
practical, the telephone company will notify you as soon as possible.
Also, you will be advised of your right to file a complaint with the FCC if
you believe it is necessary.

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The telephone company may make changes in its facilities, equipment,
operations or procedures that could affect the operation of the equipment.
If this happens, the telephone company will provide advance notice in
order for you to make necessary modifications to maintain uninterrupted
service.
If you experience problems with your Hx8 Series card,contact Digium,
Inc. at +1.877.DIGIUM.1 (+1.877.344.4861) for repair and/or warranty
information. If the equipment is causing harm to the telephone network,
the telephone company may request that you disconnect the equipment
until the problem is resolved.
Connection to party line service is subject to state tariffs. Contact the state
public utility commission, public service commission, or corporation
commission for information.
Federal Communications Commission Part 15
This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Industry Canada
Notice: The Industry Canada label applied to the product (identified by
the Industry Canada logo or the “IC:” in front of the certification/
registration number) indicates that the Industry Canada technical
specifications were met.

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Echo Cancellation
Echo cancellers are normally not required in the Telecom PSTN because
geographic delays are acceptable where CPE return loss is maintained
within Telepermit limits. However, those private networks making use of
Voice over IP technology are required to provide echo cancellation for all
voice calls. The combined effect of audio / VoIP conversion delay and IP
routing delay can cause an echo cancellation time of 64ms to be required.

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Introduction to Hx8 Series Documentation
This manual contains product information for the Hx8 Series card. Be
sure to refer to any supplementary documents or release notes that were
shipped with your equipment. The manual is organized in the following
manner:
Chapter/
Appendix Title Description
1Overview Identifies the card and type of modules you received
with your Hx8 Series card. This chapter covers
applications and uses of the Hx8 Series card in the
real world.
2Card Installation Provides instructions for installing the card in your
PC, acquiring correct drivers, and checking device
compatibility.
3Configuration Provides examples for configuring dial plan options.
4FXS, FXO, and BRI
Explained Describes the FXO (Foreign Exchange Office), FXS (Foreign Exchange Station), and BRI (Basic Rate
ISDN) modules and their significance.
5Troubleshooting Explains resolutions to common problems and
frequently asked questions pertaining to card
installation and usage.
APin Assignments Lists the connectors and pin assignments.
BSpecifications Details card specifications.
CGlossary and
Acronyms Defines terms related to this product.

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Symbol Definitions
Caution statements indicate a condition where damage to the unit or
its configuration could occur if operational procedures are not
followed. To reduce the risk of damage or injury, follow all steps or
procedures as instructed.
The ESD symbol indicates electrostatic sensitive devices. Observe
precautions for handling devices. Wear a properly grounded
electrostatic discharge (ESD) wrist strap while handling the device.
The Electrical Hazard Symbol indicates a possibility of electrical
shock when operating this unit in certain situations. To reduce the
risk of damage or injury, follow all steps or procedures as
instructed.

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Important Safety Instructions
User Cautions
Warning
This card must be used with the PC lid screwed down.
Telecommunications network voltages exist inside the PC!
The PC must be shut down and telecommunications line connection
shall be removed before opening the PC.
Electrical Shock
To reduce the risk ofinjury, damage to the unit or your equipment, do
not attempt to touch the modules while they are powered. The case
should be securely closed before power is applied to the unit.
Alarm Dialing Equipment
If your home has specially wired alarm equipment connected to the
telephone line, ensure the installation of the Hx8 Series does not
disable your alarm equipment. If you have questions, consult your
telephone company or a qualified installer.
Servicing
Do not attempt to service this card unless specifically instructed to do
so. Do not attempt to remove the card from your equipment while
power is present. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
Water and Moisture
Do not spill liquids on this unit. Do not operate this equipment in a
wet environment.
Heat
Do not operate or store this product near heat sources such as
radiators, air ducts, areas subject to direct, intense sunlight, or other
products that produce heat.
Caution
To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger
telecommunication wiring for network connections.

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Save these instructions for future reference.
Caution
This card is not intended for home use. It must be used in restricted
access locations and installed in UL Listed I.T.E. only.
Static Electricity
To reduce the risk of damaging the unit or your equipment, do not
attempt to open the enclosure or gain access to areas where you are
not instructed to do so. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
Service Personnel Cautions
Warning
This card must be used with the PC lid screwed down.
Telecommunications network voltages exist inside the PC!
The PC must be shut down and telecommunications line connection
shall be removed before opening the PC.
Electrical Shock
To reduce the risk ofinjury, damage to the unit or your equipment, do
not attempt to touch the modules while they are powered. The case
should be securely closed before power is applied to the unit.
Servicing
Disconnect telecommunications network cable before opening the
cover or removing the card from the motherboard.
Labeling
For safety reasons, only connect equipment with a
Telecommunications Compliance label. This includes customer
equipment previously labelled Permitted or Certified.
Caution
Only connect regulatory equipment (approved for use in your specific
country) to the telecommunications network voltage circuit ports.
User Cautions

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Caution
This card is not intended for home use. It must be used in restricted
access locations and installed in UL Listed I.T.E. only.
Service Personnel Cautions

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TABLE OFCONTENTS
Chapter 1
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Echo-Cancellation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
What is Asterisk®? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Asterisk as a Phone Switch (PBX) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Asterisk as a Gateway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Asterisk in the Call Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Asterisk in the Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Asterisk Everywhere . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Chapter 2
Card Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Unpacking the Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Shipment Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Module Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Port Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Applying a Port Identification Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Card Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Slot Compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Hardware Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Connecting a Timing Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
FXO, FXS, and BRI Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
Software Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

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Table Of Contents
Installing Asterisk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Chapter 3
Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
Understanding Span and Channel Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Driver Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Configuring Card Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Voicemail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
Dial Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Testing Your Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
Chapter 4
FXS, FXO, and BRI Explained . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
Identification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
FXS Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
FXO Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
BRI Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Using Your Hx8 Series Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Chapter 5
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84
Free Installation Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
Subscription Services Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
Appendix A
Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90
Appendix B
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93

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Table Of Contents
Appendix C
Glossary and Acronyms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97

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List of Figures
Figure 1: Sample Card Application for FXO / BRI . . . . . . . . . .18
Figure 2: Sample Card Application for FXS / BRI . . . . . . . . . .19
Figure 3: HA8 Base Card with Single Port Identification . . . . .28
Figure 4: HA8 Base Card with Quad Port Identification . . . . . .29
Figure 5: HA8 Bundle with Single Module and Quad Module .30
Figure 6: HA8 Bundle with 2 Quad Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Figure 7: Example Port Identification Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
Figure 8: Motherboard Slots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Figure 9: Insert the Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Figure 10: Connect Power for FXS Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Figure 11: Timing Cable Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
Figure 12: Sample Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80

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List of Tables
Table 1: Example HA8 Bundles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Table 2: Example HB8 Bundles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Table 3: Card Identifiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Table 4: Common BRI Span Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Table 5: Common Signalling Types. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Table A-1: RJ11 Telco Port Connector for FXO/FXS . . . . . . . . .90
Table A-2: RJ11 Telco Port Connector for BRI . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
Table A-3: RJ45 ISDN BRI S/T Port Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
Table B-4: Maximum Power Consumption by Component . . . . .95
Table B-5: Maximum Power Consumption by Bundle. . . . . . . . .96

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Chapter 1
Overview
The Hx8 Series cards are versatile devices used for connecting your
phone network to the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) world.
This is accomplished through analog lines connected to the FXO (Foreign
Exchange Office) ports, digital lines connected to the BRI (Basic Rate
ISDN) ports, and phone handsets connected to the FXS (Foreign
Exchange Station) ports. The Hx8 Series cards allow Asterisk to connect
to your phone network, creating an office type telephony environment. In
addition, they can also improve voice quality in environments where
software echo cancellation is not sufficient by using hardware echo
cancellation on board.
Note: An FXO module cannot be used in combination with a BRI
module that is taking timing in TE mode on the same Hx8 Series card.
An FXO module can be usedin combinationwith a BRI module that is
providing timing in NT mode on the same Hx8 Series card.
The Digium BRI module is compatible with Euro-ISDN. It is capable of
serving as a Terminal Equipment (TE) and/or Network Termination (NT)
device. When configured as an NT device, it is the source of BRI lines as
shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2.
Note: The Hx8 Series cards do not support North American BRI.
There are a variety of applications where the Hx8 Series cards (HA8 or
HB8) can prove useful. Examples are provided in the following figures.

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Chapter 1: Overview
Figure 1: Sample Card Application for FXO / BRI

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Chapter 1: Overview
Figure 2: Sample Card Application for FXS / BRI

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Chapter 1: Overview
Echo-Cancellation
Users connecting their Hx8 Series cards to the PSTN or other devices are
likely to be placing calls that will result, at some point, in an unbalanced
4-wire/2-wire hybrid. The result of this hybrid is the reflection of a near-
end echo to the calling party. Elimination of this echo is the responsibility
of echo cancellation.
The Hx8 Series cards, unless otherwise equipped, utilize Asterisk to
perform software-based echo cancellation. Asterisk maintains a number
of open source echo cancellers. These open source echo cancellers
provide a moderate level of echo cancellation, but are not capable of
dealing with higher levels of, or more advanced, echoes.
Digium recommends that those users concerned about echo cancellation
purchase the VPMADT032 hardware echo cancellation module. The
VPMADT032 may be combined with both the HA8 and HB8.
The VPMADT032 is designed to handle up to 128ms of echo cancellation
across all channels and provides a G.168 echo cancellation solution.