Frequently Asked Questions about Batelco ISDN service

What is the difference between an ISDN BRI line and a normal phone line?

What technology is ISDN BRI riding on?

Do I need special cabling for an ISDN BRI line?

Can I retain my existing telephone number?

How fast is an ISDN modem as compared to an analogue modem?

Do I have to re-configure my PC after installing an ISDN-2 line?

Do I need special equipment to connect to an ISDN-2 line?

Can I use my existing Caller ID equipment on an ISDN line?

Can I access Internet with an ISDN line?

What is the difference between an ISDN BRI line and a normal phone line?
A Batelco ISDN BRI line gives you a combined bandwidth of 128kbps as it carries two channels at 64kbps each. A normal phone line is an analogue line transmitting at 56kbps using the fastest modem. The speed of an ISDN BRI transmission line is in digital form, which is faster and also allows you to save on call charges.

What technology is ISDN BRI riding on?
As the name implies, ISDN BRI is riding on ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) technology. ISDN is both a set of digital transmission standards, a network infrastructure that allows digital transmission over existing analogue telephone wiring.


Do I need special cabling for an ISDN BRI?
No. Batelco ISDN BRI service is provided over the same copper wire used for your ordinary telephone line, we will only install an NT adapter at your end where you can plug in your devices.

Can I retain my existing telephone number?
In most cases, the same number can be retained, but in some exceptional cases where technical limitations surface, a new telephone number will be given. If in such a case you still want to retain your previous number, a special provision can be made to retain your telephone number by forwarding all the calls to your new ISDN number.

How fast is an ISDN modem as compared to an analogue modem?
An ISDN modem is three times faster than analogue modem which is operating at 56kbps (maximum). It can download data within a few seconds.

Do I have to re-configure my PC after installing an ISDN line?
If you are an existing Internet user, you will only need to re-configure your Web browser to dial ISDN access number.

Do I need special equipment to connect to an ISDN BRI line?
Yes, you need an ISDN NT adaptor ISDN for the connection to be complete. An ISDN modem has two telephone ports which will be connected to your phone and fax, as well as a serial port to connect to your computer.
A point to note: Your NT adaptor must be switched on constantly.