Trunk failure on Line 061

[telecom116]

We are experiencing problems on a new BCM 50 with Line 061 where incoming calls can't be answered and don't show up on a line appearance. You can't make outgoing calls on this line either. System has all current patches, and the problem just started after working for a couple of weeks. I've heard of the problem with Line 064 but wondering if anyone's heard of problems with 061?

 

[telecom116]

We have a solution directly from Nortel for this issue.

According to Nortel (not our supplier, but GNTS directly) that the port was blown due to high current from the CO, and that they have this problem in the state of Texas specifically. We are having to replace the BCM 50 main cabinet, along with them sending out a 50-pin AMP connector to insert between the cabinet and the terminal block. I assume that it has resistors to reduce the loop current.

Has anyone else had this response from Nortel?

 

[JasonPM]

That is more extreme than my experiences. Normally it’s just low volume. Luckily, every one of my sites that has received the Nortel cable has not had a repeat problem.

 

[dibthree]

Do you have a part number for that Nortel Cable? Is it just surge protection?

 

[telecom116]

Have not received the items yet, (not handled by me, but another of my techs) - the site is 600 miles away. I'll have him get the info and post it when it comes in.

Our installer (and myself) believe that this will fix the echo issues we're having on local trunks on another new BCM 50 system just across the Red River in Oklahoma.

Considering the GNTS folks we've been working with are in Richardson, and I think they are a Verizon area, and this site is just up 75 from them in a Verizon CO, makes me think they've experienced this in the lab.

 

[JasonPM]

dbullion,

I think they only release the Nortel cable on confirmation of the high current problem. Otherwise you have to create your own cable using resistors. This is not applicable to echo issues.

This is from Nortel Technical Warning: 2006006589.2

If the loop length of the service to the customer location is less than 2 km, the installer can install 200 ohm, 2W current limiting resistors to tip and ring of each analog trunk as a preventative measure before the system is installed. The BCM50 must then be configured for medium or long loop length after the resistors are installed to compensate for the reduction in voice signal. Installation of resistors is NOT recommended for all loop lengths. Use of current limiting devices in loops that are longer than 2 km can cause other issues, such as echo. Nortel has not seen any instance of damage when the loop is longer than 2 km.

 

[DueE]

We've replaced 4 BCM50 main units so far with this issue. In each case GNTS provided the Amp cable containing resistors.
Central Illinois

DueE