Multi-Link VERSA-LINKTM ATX-250 Owner's Manual

VERSA-LINKTM ATX-250

Call Processor

Owner’s Manual

VERSA-LINKTM ATX-250

POWER

VERSA- LINKTM ATX-250

092407

VERSA-LINK ATX-250

1

TABLE OF CONTENTS Page

1.  INTRODUCTION  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Basic Features / Call Processing

2.  EQUIPMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

FAX Machines / MODEMS / Telephones and multi-line systems /
Other equipment

3.  APPLICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Adding FAX or MODEM to a voice line / Expanding a FAX line /
Allowing two data devices to share one line

4.  OPERATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Outbound calls / Manual transfer / Automatic FAX transfer /
CALL OPTI-MIZER

5.  INSTALLATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Your phone line / Telephone systems / Multi-line phones /
Attaching FAX and data devices

6.  USER SELECTABLE FEATURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Configuration switches / Device selection codes / Factory settings

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

APPENDICES

A.  FCC INFORMATION &

B.  LIMITED WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

B.  TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS & 

A.  SERVICE INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

ATX-250

OPERATING  MANUAL

VERSA-LINK ATX-250

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INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF

CALL  PROCESSING

1.1  BASIC  FEATURES

Versa-Link is a 24-hour communications control center that automatically ana­lyzes and routes incoming calls to the proper equipment. Your Versa-Link ATX­250 permits a caller to remotely access your telephone, FAX machine, computer
MODEM, or other equipment you may have attached. Standard features include:
– Auto FAX Detection – CALL OPTI-MIZER – Automatic Ring-through to your

most-used equipment – Manual Transfer – Calling Party Hang Up Detect.

CALL OPTI-MIZER is a unique feature that makes your phone line look more like
a dedicated voice line to voice callers, and more like a dedicated data line to FAX
or computer MODEM callers.

Calls can be manually transferred at any time by either the caller or the called
party.

Versa-Link’s data protection feature allows you to transmit FAX or computer MO­DEM data without the fear of someone disturbing the transmission by picking up
an extension phone. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your voice call
will never be interrupted by a FAX or MODEM.

Another unique feature is Versa-Links surge suppressor, which provides added
protection from lightning strikes a voltage surges that could damage your sensitive
communications equipment.

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Your Versa-Link ATX-250 is a powerful Computerized Call Processor that allows more than
one telephone device to share a single phone line. Versa-Link is compatible with standard
telecommunication and office equipment including: Facsimile (FAX) machines, computer
MODEMS, PC FAX Boards, single and multi-line telephone systems, answering machines,
phone mail systems, credit approval systems, and loop start TELEX equipment.

Versa-Link allows you to expand your present communications network without installing an
expensive dedicated phone line for each device. Versa-Link provides for greater utilization
of phone lines and office equipment.

INTRODUCTION

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1.2  CALL PROCESSING

Call processing is the task of routing telephone voice and data calls to one of several desti­nations. Your phone company can be considered a very large call processor.

To better understand the principles behind call processing, consider the following example:

•

A receptionist who answers all incoming calls

•

(in this case, the Versa-Link ATX-250)

•

A Customer Service Agent.

•

A sales agent.

When a phone call comes in, the Versa-Link acts as a receptionist and answers the call. If
the caller requests the sales agent by dialing an access code, the Versa-Link will trans­fer the call without disturbing anyone else. If no code is dialed, the call is automatically
directed to the customer service agent for information and further routing. The customer
service agent may re-direct calls to the sales agent by entering the proper access code.

Your ATX-250 can be used to process calls to your voice and data equipment, just as it did
in the above example. If you are adding FAX or a computer MODEM to a voice line, you
have:

•

A Versa-Link ATX-250 that answers all calls

•

and transfers them to the proper device.

•

A telephone system that handles most calls.

•

A FAX machine or a computer MODEM.

This is just one application. As you will see, your Versa-Link is not just a switch. It’s a very
smart call processor that does exactly what it’s told to do, and does it very well.

INTRODUCTION

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EQUIPMENT

Your Versa-Link ATX-250 is compatible with virtually all modern telecommunications
equipment, including single and multi-line telephones. Because your ATX-250 is
installed between your telephone system and the phone company, it can direct all your
telephone traffic to the proper equipment. The most popular types of equipment used
with a Versa-Link ATX-250 are described below.

2.1  FAX MACHINES

Your ATX-250 has special features that work extremely well with FAX machines and
PC FAX Boards. The Auto FAX Detection feature allows most FAX calls to transfer to
your FAX machine automatically.

The vast majority of FAX machines sold today have the ability to dial the number of
the receiving FAX from memory, and then identify itself as a FAX machine with a
tone (called CNG tone or AUTO-FAX tone). It will then continue to identify itself until
the called FAX answers the call. When an ATX-250 is used at the receiving end, it
can detect this FAX identification tone, and automatically transfer the call to the FAX
machine on the receiving end, without ringing the telephone.

Occasionally, calls will come from a FAX machine without a FAX identification tone.
This may happen if the calling person is using an older FAX machine, or dials the
number manually using the FAX handset. In most applications, calls without this
auto-FAX tone will be routed to your telephone system. The call can be manually
transferred to the FAX machine by dialing (or another selected code) on your
telephone keypad. Either the caller or the person who answers can transfer the call.
See section 4.2.2 for details of operation.

If possible, ask people who send you FAX messages to program your number into
their FAX machine’s memory. This will allow FAX calls to always be processed auto­matically.

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2.2  COMPUTER MODEMS

Your ATX-250 is compatible with all dial-up MODEMS. Usually, MODEMS are attached to
the DEVICE 2 connector of your ATX-250. Your ATX-250 will transfer incoming calls to your
MODEM when the calling MODEM dials *2 (or another code, if re-programmed) after the call
has been answered by your Versa-Link. The data protection feature prevents interruptions
from other telephone equipment.

If your MODEM is only used for out-bound communication, you do not need to be concerned
with the device selection code for the MODEM.

The device selection code for your MODEM is best dialed by the calling MODEM. For
example, when calling into a MODEM attached to DEVICE 2, with the ATX-250 factory
programming, the dialing command would be:

1 203 555 1234 , , , ,

The commas will generate pauses in the dialing MODEM. The number of pauses may need
to be changed to allow enough time for the call to be switched through the telephone com­pany, particularly if the calling MODEM is dialing long-distance.

The selectable device codes can be reconfigured to add security to any system. Your ATX-

-250 will restrict access to only those callers who dial the right device selection code. See
section 6, USER SELECTABLE FEATURES, to change this code.

Some MODEMS cannot dial the symbol. Therefore, if you plan to connect a computer
MODEM, it is best to choose a device selection code for your computer that does not use
the symbol.

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EQUIPMENT

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VERSA-LINK ATX-250

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2.3  TELEPHONES AND MULTI-LINE

2.3  SYSTEMS

Your ATX-250 may be used with single and multi-line telephone equipment. Both tone-di­aling and pulse-dialing equipment may be used with your ATX-250. See section 4.2.2 for
restrictions when using pulse-dialing equipment.

2.4  OTHER EQUIPMENT

Your ATX-250 is also compatible with Credit Authorization Terminals and Loop-Start dialup
machines.

Your ATX-250 can also be used with answering machines and cordless phones.

2.5  “CALLER ID” SERVICE

2.5  COMPATIBILITY

Your ATX-250 is now programmed to wait for and detect the transmission of “Caller ID” data.
This function allows the calling party’s phone number to appear on your “Caller ID” display
unit before your ATX-250 routes the call to any device. This will allow “Caller ID” data to be
displayed only on the line side. “Caller ID” data will not pass to the device ports. There is an
upgrade which can be purchased to allow “Caller ID” data to pass to DEVICE 1.

EQUIPMENT

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There are many applications for your Versa-Link ATX-250. One unique advantage that
Versa-Link gives you is the ability to change its operation as your business grows and your
telephone needs change.

A few of the popular applications are described here.

3.1  ADDING A FAX MACHINE TO

3.1  A VOICE LINE

This application allows your ATX-250 to automatically direct all Auto-dialing FAX calls to
your FAX machine. All manually dialed FAX calls and all voice calls will be directed to your
telephone. You can easily re-direct manually dialed FAX calls to your FAX by pressing
(or another code, if re-programmed) on your telephone.

As your business grows, you may want to make your FAX line a dedicated line. Your ATX­250 can still give you maximum utility of your phone lines. You may want to reconfigure your
system to allow outgoing voice calls on this FAX line.

3.2  ADDING A MODEM TO

3.2  A VOICE LINE

This application allows your ATX-250 to direct all voice calls to your telephone, and allow
incoming computer MODEM calls to access your MODEM with the proper device code.

3.3  ADDING VOICE TO A

3.3  FAX LINE

In this application, your ATX-250 will direct all incoming calls to your FAX machine when at­tached to the DEVICE 1 port on your ATX-250. When your FAX is not in use, you will be able
to use this line for telephone calls.

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APPLICATIONS

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3.4  ALLOWING TWO DATA DEVICES TO SHARE 

3.4  ONE TELEPHONE LINE

This application allows you to use two data devices, such as FAX, MODEM, Credit
Authorization Terminal, etc. Normally, incoming calls will be directed to your FAX
equipment. Data calls can easily reach your MODEM or other equipment by dialing
the proper device selection code.

3.5  OTHER APPLICATIONS

Many configurations exist. For example, you can use your ATX-250 to:

– Screen incoming calls to your residence while allowing individuals with your select-

able access code to bypass the answering machine.

– Allow two offices to share a single line with privacy.

– Allow two answering machines to be used together for stock quotations, dictation,

daily results, sports scores, new real estate listings, etc.

– Allow remote cash register polling on an existing telephone line.

APPLICATIONS

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Your ATX-250 will route incoming calls to the proper equipment and prevent other devices
from interfering with the ongoing communication.

4.1 OUTBOUND CALLS

Your ATX-250 will only allow one DEVICE port to access the telephone line at a time. For ex­ample, if you are sending or receiving a FAX, your telephones and extensions will be unable
to interrupt the communication. If you pick up your phone or FAX and hear a busy signal,
then another device is already using the line.

4.2  INCOMING CALLS

Incoming calls can be routed to your communications equipment in several ways:

– Calls may be automatically transferred to your FAX machine if the caller is a FAX that

produces a FAX identification tone.

– Calls may be manually transferred by dialing touch tones from either end of the line or

with pulse-dialing telephone equipment attached directly to your Versa-

– Link ATX-250. Tones may be entered by the calling party any time after the first ring.

– Calls can be transferred to your MODEM if the caller is an auto-dial MODEM that dials

the proper device selection code.

– All calls may be automatically transferred to DEVICE 2 after hours if CALL OPTI-MIZER

is activated.

4.2.1  Automatic FAX Transfer

Most FAX machines have the capability to dial the receiving FAX number from memory.
When the number is dialed, an identification tone is produced every 3-1/2 seconds that al­lows call processing equipment, like your ATX-250, to identify the call as originating from a
FAX.
When auto FAX tone detection is turned on, your ATX-250 will transfer these calls to DE-
VICE 2, where your FAX machine is normally connected.

NOTE: Many FAX machines allow both voice and FAX calls to be dialed manually from
their keyboard. Also, some older FAX machines do not have auto-dialing capability. These
machines may not always produce the necessary identification tone for automatic transfer.
Manual dialed FAX calls will ring through to your telephone system and are easily trans­ferred to your FAX by dialing

It is possible for female voices to produce sounds of the same pitch as the FAX identification
(CNG) tone. To avoid inadvertant transfers, your ATX-250 only monitors the initial stage of
incoming calls for CNG tones.

OPERATION

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4.2.2  Manual Transfer

To transfer calls to a selected device, enter the proper device selection code on your
telephone (or other equipment). The factory settings are:

Device Selection Codes: DEVICE 1

Device Selection Codes: DEVICE 2

These device selection codes can be changed. See section 6.1 for detailed information
on changing these codes.

The caller can manually transfer a call by using touch-tone telephones or other equip­ment.

The called party can manually transfer a call with either touch-tone or pulse-dialing
equipment connected through the ATX-250. If you plan to manually transfer calls with a
pulse-dialing telephone, choose device selection codes that do not use the symbol.

WHEN TO ENTER A DEVICE SELECTION CODE

Device selection codes can be entered any time a call is in process. A caller can start
entering device selection codes two seconds after hearing the first ring. This allows
calls to be processed while the system is unattended.

CORRECTING MISTAKES

If a mistake is made entering a device selection code, stop entering tones for two
seconds or longer, and re-enter the correct device selection code. If you are dialing on a
pulse-dialing phone, wait five seconds or longer before reentering the code.

4.2.3  CALL  OPTI-MIZER

Often it is desirable for all calls after hours and on weekends to go directly to the FAX
machine or another automatic telephone device. This is especially useful when expand­ing a voice line with FAX and/or MODEM.

The primary application is for a company that has several incoming lines with rollover.
Only one number is dialed by callers for voice traffic. If that line is busy, the telephone
company “rolls over” the call to a second incoming line. If the second line is busy, the
call “rolls over”, and so on until the incoming call finds a line that is not busy.

The last line is published as the FAX number. Any incoming FAX call will ring in on this
line. During the day, the last line is primarily used for voice, but may also be used for
both incoming and outgoing FAX. However, at night, any call coming in on the last line is
assumed to be a FAX. This is because all other lines would have to be busy for a voice
call to come in on this line.

OPERATION

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The CALL OPTI-MIZER feature will count the number of times the telephone (attached to
DEVICE 1) rings, after an incoming call has been screened for Auto-dial FAX tones and
device codes. If the phone is not answered in 5 rings (this number is selectable - see section

6.2), your ATX-250 will assume that the office is unattended, and that this call and all future
calls should go to the FAX.

Your ATX-250 will immediately begin ringing this call to the FAX. (If your FAX has adjustable
ring selection, set it to answer on the earliest possible ring).

At this time, your ATX-250 begins to operate in NIGHT FUNCTION. Now, incoming calls will
ring your telephone system only 2 times (this number is selectable - see section 6.2), and
then immediately ring the FAX. This will allow future incoming calls to go to the FAX sooner,
with less chance of the caller hanging up before the FAX answers.

NIGHT FUNCTION is de-activated when you answer an incoming telephone call on this line
within 2 rings or make an outgoing call on this line. Your ATX-250 will now operate in normal
daytime function. This method of determining day/night/weekend is much simpler than using
a clock or calendar which must continually be updated.

In the above example, a telephone system was connected to DEVICE 1, and a FAX to DE-
VICE 2. Of course, other devices may be substituted to fit your application.

IN SUMMARY, CALL OPTI-MIZER can be used when:

(a) You want all calls after hours to go to your FAX or MODEM on DEVICE 2

(b) – and –

(b) You DO NOT have an answering machine on the same incoming line as your FAX or (b)

(b) MODEM.

See section 6.2 to activate CALL OPTI-MIZER.

OPERATION

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4.3  SUMMARY OF OPERATION

Your ATX-250 will answer incoming calls on the first ring and produce a simulated ring­back tone to the caller. Your ATX waits about six seconds longer before it begins to ring
DEVICE 1. During this time the caller may manually transfer the call by dialing a device
selection code. Your ATX-250 is also screening the call for auto FAX tones.

If no auto FAX tone is detected, and if no device selection codes are entered, your ATX­250 will begin to ring the equipment attached to DEVICE 1. Once connected, your ATX­250 will isolate equipment attached to the other device ports for the duration of the call.

The call can be manually transferred at any time by either party. There is no limit to the
number of times the same call can be transferred. During transfers, the caller is put on
hold, and hears a ringback signal while the selected device is being rung. All devices that
are not selected are disconnected from the telephone line. A busy signal is conveniently
provided to all non-selected devices.

When the line is not in use, any device can place an outgoing call. During this time, all
other devices are disconnected from the incoming line.

If the caller is dialing long distance, charges begin when your ATX-250 answers incoming
calls.

RINGING DEVICES

When your ATX-250 is ringing a device, it will attempt eight rings to that device. If the
selected device does not answer within this period, your ATX-250 will disconnect the call
and restore all devices to their original condition.

TRANSFER DEFEAT

Dialing “80” on an inbound call will cause your ATX-250 to ignore all device selection
codes for the rest of that call. This is useful if you are calling into an answering machine
to get your messages. This will prevent tones that may be on your incoming message
tape from accidently transferring your call.

OPERATION

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The following section covers installation
of your Versa-Link ATX-250 in various
applications.

NOTE: You may want to call a local
telephone service company to install the
necessary jacks between the telephone
company’s line and your internal wiring.

5.1 INITIAL CHECK-OUT

Your ATX-250 shipping carton should
contain the following equipment:
– Your Versa-Link ATX-250
– An AC wall transformer with cord
– One modular telephone cable

Plug the 12 Volt AC wall transformer into
an electrical outlet (110 Volt AC, 50-60
Hz) and plug its power cord into the
power connector on the back of your
ATX-250. The LED indicator on the front
of your ATX-250 should now be lit,
showing that power is on and the
ATX-250 is operating.

5.2 CONNECTING TO
THE PHONE L INE

WHAT LINE DO I USE?

Locate and identify the telephone line to
which you plan to attach your ATX-250. If
you are using a multi-line telephone
system with rollover, use the last line in
the rollover sequence.

WHERE DO I CONNECT MY ATX-250?

Locate a point on the line between the
telephone company and all existing
telephone equipment and extensions
attached to this line. Disconnect all
telephone equipment and extensions
from the telephone line. They will later be
re-connected to the telephone line

THROUGH your ATX-250. You may need
to install RJ-11 jacks to facilitate
installation of your ATX-250.

IMPORTANT: One function of your ATX
250 is to receive incoming calls and then
distribute them to the proper equipment.
For this reason it is VERY important that
your ATX-250 be installed ahead of all
existing telephone extensions and
equipment.

Attach the incoming telephone line to the
LINE connector on the back of your
ATX-250. The ATX-250 should now be
the only device connected to this
telephone line.

5.3  RE-CONNECTING

5.3  YOUR TELEPHONE

5.3  SYSTEM

If you are using this line for voice
communication, you will need to
reconnect your telephone system
THROUGH THE ATX-250. First, you will
want to determine what type of phone
system you have.

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5.3.1  SINGLE LINE

5.3.1  TELEPHONES

Attach your telephone system to the
DEVICE 1 connector on the back of your
ATX-250. If you have only one phone with
no extensions, you can connect the
phone by plugging it into the DEVICE 1
connector on your ATX-250. If you have
extensions, attach the DEVICE 1
connector to one of the extension jacks.
This will re-connect all the extensions.

5.3.2  MULTI - LINE

5.3.2  TELEPHONES

If you are using a multi-line Key system,
attach your KSU telephone input for the
selected line to the DEVICE 1 connector
on the back of your ATX-250.

NOTE: Your ATX-250 is not designed to
operate at a station port of a KSU. It will
only operate on the trunk side of a key
system.

If you are using a two-line feature phone
system with no controller (called an RJ­14 system), connect the telephone cable
attached to the selected line of your dual
line phone system to the DEVICE 1
connector on the back of your ATX-250.

5.3.3  PBX (Private

5.3.3  Branch Exchange)

Your ATX-250 can be used at a station
extension of any PBX. It can also be used
on the trunk side of most loop-start PBX’s
Whether you are installing your ATX-250
on a station extension or on a PBX trunk,
first verify that the circuit is compatible by
testing it with a single-line telephone. If
you are unable to get a dial tone, the line
is not compatible.

WARNING: Improper connections to PBX
extensions and trunks can cause
damage to telephone equipment. If you
are in doubt, contact your local telephone
service company.

Products are available to allow use of
loop-start equipment on a ground-start
PBX trunk. Contact your local telephone
service company or our experts here at
Multi-Link.

5.4  ATTACHING OTHER

5.4  DEVICES (FAX, 

5.4  MODEM, ETC.)

When you attach your FAX, computer
MODEM, credit terminal, or other
equipment, set the equipment to answer
incoming calls on the first or second ring,
if possible.

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How you attach your data equipment
depends entirely on what you want your
system to do. Some of the most popular
applications are listed below:

5.4.1  ADDING FAX TO A

5.4.1  VOICE LINE

When adding FAX to a voice line, attach
your FAX to the DEVICE 2 connector on
the back of your ATX-250. See your
installation manual for details.

You should enable auto FAX tone
detection. Configuration switch 6 should
be set to the “up” position. This is the
factory setting.

If necessary, change the configuration
switch on the back of your ATX-250.
Unplug the ATX-250 power cord for
about 2 seconds and re-connect it to
activate the new settings.

In addition, you may also want to turn on
CALL OPTI-MIZER if you are using your
ATX-250 on a multi-line system. See
section 4.2.3 for details.

5.4.2  ADDING VOICE TO   

5.4.2  A FAX LINE

If you are expanding the use of your FAX

line you will want to move your telephone
system to the DEVICE 2 connector and
attach your FAX machine to DEVICE 1.
This will allow all incoming calls to go
directly to your FAX machine. Outbound
calls can be made as usual, and
incoming calls are possible using manual
transfer.

You will want to disable auto FAX tone
detection. Set the configuration switch
position 6 to the “down” position.

Unplug the power cord from your ATX­250 for about 2 seconds and re-connect
it to activate the new switch settings.

5.4.3  Allowing Two Data

5.4.3  Devices to Share

5.4.3  One Line

If you are using FAX, attach your FAX
machine to the DEVICE 1 connector on
the back of your ATX-250. Attach your
other data device to the DEVICE 2
connector.

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If you are not using FAX, choose the data
device that most of your incoming calls
should go to. Attach this device to the
DEVICE 1 connector on the back of your
ATX-250. Attach the other data device to
the DEVICE 2 connector.

If you are not using FAX, or if your FAX is
attached to DEVICE 1, you should disable
auto FAX detection. Set the configuration
switch position 6 to the “down” position.

Unplug the power cord from your ATX­250 for about 2 seconds and re-connect
it to activate the new switch settings.

5.4.4    

ADDING AN

ANSWERING MACHINE

If you use an answering machine, attach
it to the same connector that your
telephone system is attached to. You may
either connect your telephone system
through your answering machine, if a
connector is provided on the answering
machine for that purpose, or you may
need to use a multi-outlet Y-adapter.

You may also want to leave instructions
on the outgoing message to instruct
callers on how to access your data
equipment. If you have a FAX attached to
DEVICE 2, remember to give out your
device selection code for access to your

FAX, so that callers with manually dialed
FAX machines can send you messages
while you are not there. A sample
message might be:

“Hello, this is _______________. If you
would like to leave a FAX message,
press star-two to ring our FAX
machine. If you would like to leave a
voice message, please begin speaking
after the tone. Thank you for calling.”

5.5  CONFIGURING  THE

5.5  ATX-250  TO  YOUR

5.5  APPLICATION

Depending on your application, you may
want to change the factory settings of the
configuration switches or change the

device selection codes.

For a detailed description of all the opera­tional features, and step-by-step informa­tion on how to select them, see section 6,
USER SELECTABLE FEATURES.

5.6  GENERAL  RULES  OF

5.6  INSTALLATION

When installing your ATX-250 there are
three general principles to keep in mind:

5.6.1

Your ATX-250 must be the only device
directly connected to the telephone
company’s incoming line.

There cannot be any extensions or data
devices connected in parallel with your
ATX-250 on this line. All extensions and
data devices must be connected to one
of the DEVICE ports on the back of your
ATX-250.

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For example, if you connect your ATX­250 in the following way, it will not
function properly:

Ringing will be heard in the background if
a call is answered by one of the
extension phones. Also, your ATX-250
cannot prevent an extension phone from
being lifted and interrupting a FAX call.

For the same reason, off-premise exten­sions (OPX), including answering services
located away from your building, are not
compatible with your ATX-250. Do not install
an ATX-250 if you have an OPX.

5.6.2

Your ATX-250 is intended for use with
standard modular RJ-11 jacks.

Many key system station jacks look the
same, but are not wired for the RJ-11 stan­dard. In addition, some ground-start PBX
trunks are incompatible. Neither an ATX­250 nor a FAX machine will operate if
connected to this point.

The general rule is: if a SINGLE-LINE
telephone will work on the connector,
your ATX-250 will work. You can usually
use a telephone line tester to verify that
the jack is wired for RJ-11.

5.6.3

Manual transfers are accomplished by
entering touch-tones or dial pulses.

Some multi-line key systems do not allow
tone or dial pulse generation on incoming
calls. To determine if the key system is
capable of manually transferring an incom­ing call, call the line on which you wish to
install your ATX-250 from another location,
and listen to determine if the person who
answers can dial touch-tones.

Pulse-dialing telephone equipment and
some key systems do not generate the
or signals. You can overcome this
limitation by changing the ATX-250
device selection codes to new codes that
do not contain or . See section 6.1
to change device selection codes.

On a few key systems, dialing will
unlock the key pad to once a ain dial
touch-tones. Try dialing , for
example, to manually transfer to your FAX
machine.

On some key systems that do not allow
tone generation on inbound calls, you
can fool the telephone system into
thinking it is making an outbound call by
pressin the “FLASH” key, and then
dialing . To keep from hanging up
the caller, activate the “Protected Hook
Flash” feature. See section 6.3.

INSTALLATION

*

#

*

#

*

#

*

#

*

2

*

2

VERSA-LINK ATX-250

18

Your Versa-Link ATX-250 can be used
in a wide variety of applications by
changing the selectable features.

The following features are set with the
configuration switches located on the
back of your ATX-250:

Use a pen or other small instrument to
make changes to the configuration
switches.

IMPORTANT: Configuration switch
changes are not activated until AC pow­er is re-applied. Therefore, unplug and
reconnect the AC power cord after mak­ing any configuration switch changes to
enter these settings into memory.

6.1 DEVICE CODE

6.1 SELECTION

Your ATX-250 analyzes incoming calls
for touch-tones and analyzes your
equipment for both pulse-dial and touch­tone device selection codes.

There are four different sets of device
selection codes that your ATX-250 will
recognize. Set the configuration switches
1 and 2 according to the following table:

Remember to unplug and re-connect the
AC power after changing the
configuration switches.

The third set is useful for compatibility
with other Versa-Link products. The
fourth set allows extra security for
equipment attached to “DEVICE 2”.

If your equipment is pulse-dial only, you
cannot use the codes containing the *
symbol.

USER  SELECTABLE

FEATURES

6

VERSA-LINK ATX-250

19

6.2 CALL OPTI-MIZER

CALL OPTI-MIZER is useful if you want
all incoming calls to go to DEVICE 2
when your office is unattended. See
section 4.2.3 for a detailed description.

When using CALL OPTI-MIZER, there
are three choices for the parameters
that determine when a call is sent to DE-
VICE 2. CALL OPTI-MIZER can also be
completely disabled. Set the configuration
switches 3 and 4 according to the follow­ing table:

Remember to unplug and re-connect the
AC power after changing the configuration
switches.

6.3  PROTECTED HOOK 

6.3  FLASH

Some key tone telephone systems do not
allow tone generation on an inbound call.
On these systems, manual transfers can
still be accomplished by fooling the
telephone system into thinking it is
making an outbound call. This is done by
pressing the “FLASH” key on the
telephone, and then dialing the device
code for DEVICE 2.

For example, if your FAX is connected to
DEVICE 2, and the device selection code
for DEVICE 2 is , calls can be
manually transferred to the FAX by
pressing FLASH and then .

To prevent the caller from being hung up
when the FLASH key is pressed, you will
want to activate Protected Hook Flash.
This will place the call on hold while the
flash button momentarily disconnects the
line. Protected Hook Flash cannot be
used if your phone is pulse-dial or if this
line has “call waiting”.

Configuration switch 5 is used to select
Protected Hook Flash. Remember to
unplug and re-connect the AC power
after changing the configuration switch.

USER  SELECTABLE

FEATURES

*

2

*

2

PROTECTED
HOOK FLASH

VERSA-LINK ATX-250

20

USER  SELECTABLE

FEATURES

6.4  FAX  TONE

6.4  DETECTION

If you connect a FAX machine to your
network, you will need to tell your ATX­250 which DEVICE port it is on. This
allows auto-dial FAX calls to be
transferred to your FAX machine
automatically.

If you adding FAX to a voice line, connect
the FAX to DEVICE 2.

If you are expanding a FAX line, connect
the FAX to DEVICE 1.

Configuration switch 6 is used to select
FAX tone detection. Remember to unplug
and re-connect the AC power after
changing the configuration switch.

6.5  SELECTIVE RINGING

6.5  FEATURE WITH

6.5  TRANSFER

The “Selective Ringing” feature on your
ATX-250 is designed to be used in
conjunction with the “distinctive ring”
service offered by your local telephone
company.

In the “selective ring” mode, your ATX­250 will detect the multiple ring patterns
associated with each telephone number

and route the call to the intended phone
device. Switching is completely transparent
to the caller.

“Selective Ringing” can be enabled by
simply placing all DIP Switches in, the up
position as indicated below-and recycling
power.

Manual Transfer - In “Selective Ringing”

mode your ATX-250 has the same basic
manual transfer capability as with normal
function. To transfer calls to a selected
device, enter the proper device selection
code on your telephone key pad (or other
equipment). The factory settings are:

Device Selection Codes

DEVICE 1 or 21

DEVICE 2 or 22

6.6  FACTORY SETTINGS

When your ATX-250 was shipped to you,
it was programmed with the following
settings:

IMPORTANT: Configuration swi tch changes
are not activated until AC power is re-applied
Therefore unplug and re -connect the AC
power cord after making any confi guration
switch changes to enter t hese settings into
memor y.

*

1

*

2

VERSA-LINK ATX-250

21

To restore the original factory settings, set
the configuration switches (located on the
back of your ATX-250) according to the
chart below. Set switches 1 and 6 UP,
and switches 2,3,4, and 5 DOWN.

Unplug the AC power cord on your ATX­250 for about 2 seconds and re-connect
the power to activate the new settings.

USER  SELECTABLE

FEATURES

VERSA-LINK ATX-250

22

Before you contact Multi-Link about a
question, please read this section. If you
are experiencing a problem, you may be
able to quickly solve it yourself.

COMMONLY ASKED

QUESTIONS

WHY DO SOME FAX CALLS GO TO MY
TELEPHONE?

Sometimes FAX calls originate from
equipment that does not identify itself as
a FAX machine. You can manually
transfer the call by dialing the device
selection code for your FAX (factory set
to ). See section 2.1. Activating
CALL OPTI-MIZER may eliminate this
problem at night. See section 4.2.3 for
details.

Also, you may need to change auto-FAX
tone detection. See section 6.4.

WHY DO I SOMETIMES GET A BUSY
SIGNAL WHEN I PICK UP MY PHONE?

The data protection feature of your ATX­250 disconnects your telephone when
your FAX or MODEM is in use. Wait for
your FAX or MODEM to finish, and try
your telephone again.

AFTER I CHANGE THE
CONFIGURATION SWITCHES, WHY
DOES THE ATX-250 NOT CHANGE ITS
OPERATION?

Any time you change the configuration
switches on the back of your ATX-250
you must unplug its power cord for about
two seconds to activate the new settings.

WHY DOES MY ATX-250 REPEATEDLY
CLICK-CLICK WHEN I PICK UP THE
LINE?

If you cannot get a dial tone, and only
hear a click-click every two seconds or
so, the ATX-250 does not have a good
connection to the phone company. Check
your installation and wiring for loose or
open connections. Connect a single-line
telephone directly to the incoming line.
Check for dial tone and proper operation.
A dead line should be reported to your
telephone company.

WHY DOES MY FAX ANSWER ALL
INCOMING CALLS?

Your ATX-250 may not be getting any
power. Check the LED indicator on the
front panel. If the LED is not lit, check the
power connector, the AC adaptor, and the
AC power source.

I ENTER ON MY PHONE TO TRANS­FER AN INCOMING CALL TO MY FAX.
WHY DOES THE CALL NOT TRANSFER?

Some multi-line key telephones will not
generate tones after receiving an
incoming call. You may need to activate
the Protected Hook Flash feature. Refer
to section 6.3.

WHY DO I SOMETIMES HEAR RINGING
IN THE BACKGROUND WHEN I ANSWER
THE PHONE?

Your ATX-250 may not be installed as the
only device directly connected to the
telephone line. To determine this, discon­nect the cord from the LINE jack of your
ATX-250. If you can get a dial tone on any
of your telephones, your installation is not
correct.

COMMONLY

ASKED

QUESTIONS

Q

&

A

*

2

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2

VERSA-LINK ATX-250

23

FCC REGISTRATION &
LIMITED WARRANTY

FCC REGISTRATION

This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC rules. On the bottom of this equipment is a label that
contains, among other information, the FCC Registration Number and Ringer Equivalence Number
(REN) for this equipment. You must, upon request, provide this information to your telephone company.

The REN is useful to determine the quantity of devices you may connect to your telephone line and still
have all of those devices ring when your telephone number is called. In most, but not all areas, the sum
of the RENs of all devices connected to one line should not exceed five (5.0). To be certain on the num

­ber of devices you may connect to your line, as determined by the REN, you should contact your local
telephone company to determine the maximum REN for your calling area.

If your telephone equipment causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone company may discon­tinue your service temporarily. If possible, they will notify you in advance. But if advance notice isn’t prac

­tical, you will be notified as soon as possible. You will be informed of your right to file a complaint with the
FCC. Your telephone company may make changes in its facilities, equipment, operations or procedures
that could affect the proper functioning of your equipment. If they do, you will be notified in advance to
give you an opportunity to maintain uninterrupted telephone service.

If you experience trouble with this telephone equipment, please contact your Versa-Link dealer or
Multi-Link, Inc. for information on obtaining service or repairs. The telephone company may ask that you
disconnect this equipment from the network until the problem has been corrected or until you are sure
that the equipment is not malfunctioning.

This equipment may not be used on coin service provided by the telephone company, and is not in­tended for use with party line service. This equipment is intended for use only on loop-start service, and
will not operate on a groundstart central office line.

LIMITED WARRANTY

We warrant that if this Versa-Link ATX-250 product, manufactured by Multi-Link, Inc. and purchased by
you, proves to be defective in material or workmanship, we will provide without charge, for a period of
two (2) years, the labor and the parts necessary to remedy any such defect. Warranty period commenc

-

es on the date of purchase by the original retail consumer.

The duration of any implied warranty of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or otherwise, on
this product shall be limited to the duration of the applicable express warranty set forth above. In no event
shall we be liable for any loss, inconvenience or damage whether direct, incidental, consequential or oth­erwise resulting from breach of any express or implied warranty, of merchantability, fitness for a particular
purpose, or otherwise with respect to this product, except as set forth herein. Some states do not allow
limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusion may not apply to you.

To obtain service under this warranty, you must present or send your ATX-250 product, together with a
copy of the retail seller’s original bill of sale, your charge or credit receipt, or other satisfactory proof of
the date of the original retail purchase of the product, to any of the Versa-Link authorized service sta­tions. A list of the Versa-Link authorized service stations can be obtained from your Versa-Link dealer or
from Multi-Link, Inc.

Any postage, insurance or shipping cost incurred in presenting or sending your ATX-250 product for
service is your responsibility. However, Multi-Link will pay for all return freight expenses.

The AC adaptor used with this product is covered under this warranty. This warranty does not cover dam

­age which results from accident, misuse, abuse, improper line voltage, fire, flood or damage resulting from
repairs or alterations performed other than by Versa-Link authorized service stations. This warranty gives
you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

VERSA-LINK ATX-250

24

Your machine has been registered with the Federal Communications Commission, and
under this program, in the event of equipment malfunction, all repairs will be performed by
Multi-Link, Inc. or a warranty repair center that we have authorized. The owner is restricted
from performing any maintenance operation other than those specified within this instruction
manual.
If you require service, please contact your Versa-Link dealer or Multi-Link, Inc.

Multi-Link, Inc.
225 Industry Road
Nicholasville, KY 40356
[phone]
FAX [phone]
www.multi-link.net

SERVICE INFORMATION

Input power requirements:
At AC Transformer: 110 - 125 Volts AC Only; 50-60 Hz
At power jack on ATX-250: 12-15 Volts AC only
Power consumption Idle: 3 Watts
Ringing a device: 6-11 Watts
CO Interface: Ren 1.1 B
DOC (Canada) Load No. 83
Input ring detection: 40-150 Volts AC; 15-68 Hz
DEVICE Interface:
Battery: Nominal - 45.5 Volt DC to devices 1 and 2
Off-hook detection: 3-150 ma
Ringer frequency: 33 Hz Pseudo-sinewave
Ringing no load: Approximately 145.6 Volts AC
Ringing 8000 ohm impedance
(REN 1.O): Approximately 116 VAC
Ringing 4000 ohm impedance
(REN 2.0): Approximately 98 VAC
Ringing 2667 ohm impedance
(REN) 3.0): Approximately 83 VAC
Ringing short circuit: current limited to 110 ma with ring trip. (impedances less than

2667 ohms not recommended)

TECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONS

The Versa-Link ATX-250 contains patented and otherwise
proprietary circuits and software algorithms. This owner’s
manual describes the operation and function of some of
these circuits and algorithms. Unauthorized duplication
of this manual is a violation of U.S. and other copyright
laws, and unauthorized use of all or part of this manual may
result in patent infringement. Therefore, THIS MANUAL IS
TO BE USED ONLY WITH OR AS A MARKETING TOOL
FOR THE VERSA-LINK ATX-250. Duplication of all or part
of this manual without the permission of Multi-Link, Inc. is
prohibited.

Printed in the U.S.A.
Multi-Link, Inc.
225 Industry Road
Nicholasville, KY 40356
[phone]
FAX [phone]