Version 8.1 Muppet SCN

[mpisano]

I've been currently managing two 500V2's since version 6.1 that I apparently got "upgraded" to Essential mode when upgrading to 7.1 and now to 8.1.

I've just purchased a third system and finally realize what people were complaining about with muppet mode.

Questions:

1) I don't need 8.x, can I downgrade this newer unit to 7.1 as I want all my systems to be on the same version because i've purchased 4 Network channels lic's for all to create an SCN?

2) If not, is there a way I can use the normal manager tool and not this stupid wizard\Muppet interface - Hate it?

3) If I am forced to use this, I don't see any options about 323 trunks or SCN in the muppet interface?
also - it defaults to Key mode, isn't PBX mode closer to the way older IPO functions?

4) If I configure as Standard mode, I get the full interface, can I run this way even though I get the missing essential license? (I don't care about mobile twinning)

I have 10 more locations to do this year as part of the SCN and hate to spend 4k more for licenses - 7.1 was perfect!

Thanks in advance,
Mike Pisano

 

[intrigrant]

Configure all systems with 7.0, in Manager select the menu "File > Advanced > Change Mode" and select "IP Office standard", then save config with a reboot.
But first default the security settings,
Then no additional lics are required and you have a option full environment.

A simple mind delivers great solutions

 

[mpisano]

Thanks intrigrant - I followed your suggestion and some other threads regarding loading 7.0 and then making one outbound call to get grandfathered into the virtual essential upgrade for 8.x
Everything is working - no Muppets!!! (No Disrespect Jim Henson)

Of coarse, with the newer of 8.1(57) and no more 90 day upgrade window i guess this loophole is closing fast.

Additional Question:
If I was to purchase 10 Ip500v2 and SD cards and left them unpowered over the next year. Could I in theory load 7.x on them and then 8.1(43) and still move forward to 9.x as I roll out. What is it's clock source?

Thanks Again - This Forum Rocks!!!
Mike

 

[IPGuru]

It is the IP500 that controls the upgrade-ability not the SD Card so stockpiling SD cards would be pointless

Clock source referees to where the IPO is obtaining its clock for the PCM bus and is used for frame synchronisation, initially this will be internal but usually will be changed to the ISDN connection when it powers up (Because it should be more accurate then the internal clock).

if the system & ISDN are not in sync then you can have problems with calls, most noticeably with faxes but also pops,clicks & possible call disconnection on speech calls.


A Maintenance contract is essential, not a Luxury.
Do things on the cheap & it will cost you dear

 

[mpisano]

Thanks IPGUru
I would not just buy 10 SD cards, I would buy 10 Chassis and cards. (for the systems I'll roll out in 2013)

Sorry for the confusion, When I asked about Clock source I didn't mean PCM bus or CPU \ (ie crystal)

I mean, IPO starts a 90 day upgrade-ability windows (some say 100+ days) in 8.1(43) and prior now removed in 8.1(57).
If left under .57 what triggers the beginning? First external call, System power up?
I certainly don't want 10 systems expiring in the box is it's based upon production date. Do I need to crack open the 10 systems immediately and downgrade them to 7 and then reload 8.1.43?
Could I perhaps leave them boxed until release 9 and then downgrade and then upgrade to 8.1.43 and then 9.0.xx?

Thanks again,
Mike

 

[tlpeter]

It will be on the first call.
But when you are afraid of this then let them sit in the box.
Open it up when you are going to install it.
Then insert the SD card in to a card reader and recreate it with the version you want to use.
Put it in the system and plug in the power.
Then it will boot up with the version you have used for recreating the card.
The only thing is that the 90 days grace period is gone with the latest releases.
So no more upgrading within 90 days to a 8.2 or a 9.0 release.


BAZINGA!

I'm not insane, my mother had me tested!

 

[amriddle01]

The 90 day window is closed in latest 8.1 but that is for upgrades after it's on that version of 8.1, you can still load R7 onto a new system make/attempt an external call and then upgrade to latest 8.1 and it works