Ed’s Telecom Alert

The FCC is asking for comments on several items regarding Speech-to-Speech.   Click this and consider commenting on this worthy notice.

FCC NPRM

The proposed items for comments are:

• Same Relay Operator handling of STS call to last 20 min or more
  • Purpose of that is RO to get used to voice of STS User
  • STS User developing more confidence in RO understanding him/her
• STS system to have voice of STS user muted, but allow the called party hear the voice of RO (not the voice of STS user)
• Adding option for 7-1-1 where Interactive Voice Response offers option to hit one button that automatically routes to STS station
  • Purpose of that is to minimize RO who is not a specialized trained aoperator understanding voice of STS user
  • The FCC declines to require that, but wants to hear from STS users whether calling 711 tends to disconnect or not.
• The FCC concludes that IP STS is a TRS feature and seeks comments for this tentative conclusion

There are more other items that the FCC is seeking comments on.  These above items are the primary area that I’ve identified.  

Strongly suggest that in order for the FCC to rule, that STS users make every effort to comment.

By the way, adding option to 711 was first introduced by no other than TEXAS!  

eyes open & thumbs up,

Ed B