The user interface for the SCP supports input from terminals or PC-based workstations over RS-232 or TCP/IP links. This arrangement allows the use of Dumb terminals, PCs running a Windows-based Graphical User Interface (GUI), or any other smart device to function in the environment.
System security consists of a user ID and password, allowing access to the system. Each user login code allows or denies a user access to system functions. The user interface servers, controlling remote system functions, are idle-time based. Each user logging into the system and accessing a service or screen that directly controls the Caller Name application may not leave a session idle for more than 10 minutes without having the system automatically log that user off the system.
The terminal input data conforms to the Bellcore User System Language (USL) command format, which allows consistency with current terminal input being used to update information. Formerly known as MML.
When using the Windows-based GUI on a PC, the output information is parsed into an ASCII formatted message that is consistent with the Caller Name USL command format for updating the Caller Name database on the SCP.
The Graphical User Interface (GUI) for the CALLER NAME system is designed to operate under Microsoft® Windows™ on an MS-DOS®-based PC. The keys used to navigate the various screens are consistent with those used in the normal Windows application to maintain consistency across applications. It contains popup windows to indicate when errors have occurred and locationsensitive help facilities such as those used in Windows. See Figure 5.
Figure 5 Caller Name Database Administration Screen
The following procedure describes the steps required to operate the GUI interface.
Initial access to the system is from an Icon presented on the Windows desktop. Double click or select and press <enter> on the Icon. The program displays the CNAM Database Administration screen. After the operator selects an action, the cursor then goes to the input area designated for the directory number. After the operator enters the directory number, the system issues a Read to the SCP to retrieve any information concerning the directory number entered. The operator is then able to complete functions as required Add, Modify, or Delete.
The interface between the GUI and the Stratus system
allows direct RS-232 connection from COM port 1 or 2 on the workstation.
An indirect RS-232 connection across a modem may also be used.
Connection over TCP/IP requires a LAN card be installed in the
workstation and an Ethernet LAN in operation. The command set
used for communications with the Stratus system is in User System
Language (USL) format to allow for the replacement of the Windows-based
GUI with a dumb terminal such as a VT-100.