AT&T Co is opening up its Signalling System 7 network to local telephone companies, enabling faster call connections and access to databases for verification of calling cards, collect calls and third party calls. The signalling network sends call information on a different line from the ones that actually carry the voice or data call. Access to Signalling System 7 will be via AT&T’s Virtual Signalling Network software, enabling companies to use the signalling system as if it were their own. It will be available in 1991. Companies gain access to the Virtual Network through digital lines connecting the local telephone company offices and AT&T’s various signalling offices. It will also connect companies to all regional Bell operating companies, other major long distance companies and, in the future, to international telephone service providers. The cost varies acccording to the company’s requirements. The initial connection charge is $12,000 per access connection between a local switching signalling point and an AT&T office, or $16,000 per access connection to link a Signalling System 7 with a local signalling network. Monthly charges are $5,200 per connection for one to 15 access line pairs, and $5,000 per connection for more than 16 access line pairs. Each Signalling System 7 network connection is $7,000 monthly. Charges per database access are based on the fee charges by the database vendor.
