ACP Series 2.0 is a Secure Firewall for Dial-up Modems

The continued use of dial-up modems is predicated by the need for for vendor support, configuration of remote devices, and for providing out-of-band connectivity to remote systems by phone line when the primary network connection is down. However, modems represent an often overlooked backdoor to control systems and networks that can be exploited by hackers via the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).

In a publication by Homeland Security’s National Cyber Security Division, “Recommended Practice for Securing Control System Modems”, methods for securing dial-up modems are addressed. It states that, “In general the dial-up PSTN is the least secure as it exposes a modem to the equivalent of world-level Internet access. As a result, this communication point can be accessed from anywhere in the world by anyone with a modem and may be vulnerable to attack.“

One security method presented in the paper is a telephony firewall. All of Multi-Link’s “active” line sharing devices, in addition to cutting costs, allow the end-user to protect access to connected modems with programmable security access codes (SAC) in the form of touch-tones. These SACs can be configured differently for each device port. Our most robust product from a security standpoint is the ACP Series 2.0 with 7-digit SACs per device port that would effectively provide a stand-alone firewall for dial-up modems.

For those modems utilizing Caller ID  and dial-back security measures, the ACP 2.0 will pass the incoming Caller ID to the designated modem. After the Caller ID has been authenticated and the inbound call is disconnected, the modem can then call back through the ACP 2.0 to the pre-programmed number to ensure the secure transmission of data. The ACP 2.0 Series includes models that can accommodate 3 devices (ACP-300), 5 devices (ACP-500), and 9 devices (ACP-900).

It is highly recommended to audit and document all known modems and faxes for the purpose of not only cost reduction, but for the sake of closing any back doors into a company’s telecom and IT networks.

ACP Series 2.0 Data Sheet

Wireless Last Mile Connectivity for Farm Operations

When farm operations expand, it is sometimes necessary to provide phone and internet connectivity from the main office to remote structures for a variety of purposes, such as security, communication, or monitoring. Two typical connectivity options are 1) Aerial cabling; and 2) Trenching. However, unsightly aerial cables can ruin the scenic value of real estate and trenching can be expensive, intrusive to livestock & daily operations, or just plain impossible.

Now there is another choice, The ZipLink wireless Phoneline AND Ethernet extender from Multi-Link.
The ZipLink is a fast, affordable alternative to trenching cables through impassable terrain or across parking lots, streets, or concrete aprons. A typical trenching job would cost $3,500 to get started and average $200/hr in operations costs thereafter. At a fraction of the cost, the ZipLink wireless Phoneline/Ethernet extender can be installed and running in a few hours.

ZipLink Benefits
• NO permits or licenses required
• NO need for surveys or right of way maps
• NO direct burial or aerial cable
• NO radio experience necessary
• NO trenching costs or delays
POTS line and Ethernet connections are extended up to a mile by an encrypted 5.8GHz direct sequence radio signal. The ZipLink is an all-in-one solution that houses all electronics in a rugged NEMA-4 rated outdoor antenna enclosure. Tough enough for permanent installations in demanding conditions (-40°F to130°F), ZipLink is ideal for temporary jobsites and can be reused over and over.

ZipLink  Series of Wireless Phoneline/Ethernet Extenders

ZipLink Wireless Phoneline/Ethernet Extender Data Sheet V.8

Contact us for more info!
800-535-4651
sales@multi-link.net

How to Wirelessly Extend Nortel PBX Extensions with the ZipLink

Application Brief:

Many customers have inquired about using the ZipLink with Nortel PBX systems.  The typical scenario involves an existing Nortel PBX system in one building and the need to install extension phones in another building without trenching through the terrain separating the two. An Ethernet and POTS line can be wirelessly extended to quickly and affordably provide this connection with Multi-Link’s  ZipLink 5.8GHz Wireless Phoneline/Ethernet Extender.

This application note provides multiple options in order to establish this wireless connection.

Download: How to Wirelessly Extend Nortel PBX extensions with the ZipLink

New! ZipLink – Xtreme Ruggedized HI-SPEED Ethernet Extender

The newest ZipLink wireless Ethernet extender has all the features and benefits of the ZipLink series but with more range, speed, and ruggedness. The ZipLink-Xtreme can extend 80Mbps of Ethernet bandwidth up to three miles line of sight in conditions ranging from -40°F to 145°F.

Specifications:
Radio Range: 3 Miles / 5 kilometers
Over the air data rate:  80Mbps
Operating Temperature: -40F to +145F (-40C to +60C)
Power Required: 19W maximum, 10W typical
Radio Type: 5.8 GHz DSSS, License Free
Encryption: 256 Bit WPA-PSK (AES)
Radio Power: +40 dBm (adjustable)
Radio Sensitivity: -80 dBm @ 10-5 BER
Outdoor Unit Size: 12” x 12” x 3.5”
System Shipping Weight: 23 lbs

 ZipLink System includes:
Base & Remote End Radios, 2 power adapters, (2)100 ft outdoor
CAT 3 cable, 2 Wall pole mount & brackets w/nuts, screws, washers

Required tools:
Drill/ Phillips head screwdriver, Fishline, RJ11 crimper,
10mm nut driver

ZipLink-Xtreme Data Sheet

Introducing the ACP Series 2.0!

Over the past few years, our valued customers have provided insightful suggestions regarding the current ACP series, submitting enhancements and features that would make the product better, easier to install, more user friendly, and broaden the application potential. We used this input and have what we now believe is the most secure and versatile call processor available on the market.

We are proud to introduce the new ACP Series 2.0  Out-of-Band Network Switch & Call Router  

(ACP-300, ACP-500, and ACP-900)*!

ACP-500 (5 device ports)

• HACKER SHIELD PROTECTION – Programmable Security Access Codes, up to 7 digits per port, protects connected devices from unauthorized access for a robust telephony firewall.
• LED Status Display – Shows the following: The model of ACP on power up; Device port number in use or being rung; Visual read-back of register value during and after programming (audible tones are still generated for remote administration)
• Simplified Installation- No longer requires a T4x8 or RJ-31 jack. The new unit uses a standard RJ-11 jack for the line input and for each device port. Also, no over-under splitters for the ACP-9.
• CID Store and Forward - This option is programmable (ON or OFF). When ON, CID is captured on the incoming ring. Anytime a device port is addressed, CID is sent after the first ring.
• Assignable EBI (Emergency Barge In) – This option is now programmable (ON or OFF) for ports 1 thru 4. Ideal for VoIP PBX’s, critical IT network equipment, remote site monitoring, & security applications.
• 12VDC Input – Expands compatibility for industrial communications
• Mounting brackets are included with all ACP-300, 500, and 900 units.

ACP Series 2.0 Data Sheet

ACP Series 2.0 Application Diagrams

 The ACP Series 2.0 is now shipping. Call 800-535-4651 for pricing.

Polnet ACP has been upgraded to ACP Series 2.0 Out-of-Band Network Switch & Call Router

Multi-Link Helps Kiosk Owners Save Money and Improve Customer Service

The Problem

Convenience provided by self-service kiosks brings greater user demand on each unit.  Additionally, self-service kiosks are becoming more and more sophisticated to provide advertising space and even more personalized services. When your kiosk experiences a system lockup, your profits do as well.  A power outage or simple software crash can leave a kiosk inoperative until a service technician can arrive to diagnose the problem, most requiring a simple cycling of power. The bottom line: a non-functioning kiosk cannot provide revenue or service and will add to your repair costs.

Costs of Service:

Dispatching a technician, especially at off hours can be very expensive. Gas, vehicle wear and tear, and labor can easily result in service cost of $150/hour or more.

The Solution

With an increasing number of kiosks deployed in-band and out-of-band within network platforms, companies need reboot solutions using one or both methods—and Multi-Link has them. Multi-Link’s remote power controllers help network support technicians improve device uptime, increase problem response time, extend equipment life, and save travel, labor, and energy costs.

The Power Stone and the IP4000 give network operations centers multiple control options by browser, phone, auto fault detection, scheduling, and even MSN chat.  Affordable yet invaluable, Multi-Link puts remote networks back in your control. To find out how much money you can save by reducing service dispatches, download the Multi-Link Cost Savings Calculator ~ Remote Power Controlv.3

Don’t pay a tech to reboot Digital Signage anymore…

With an increasing number of digital signage devices deployed in-band and  out-of-band within network platforms, companies must have reboot solutions using one or both methods—and  Multi-Link  has them. Multi-Link’s remote power controllers help IT personnel improve device uptime, increase problem response time, extend equipment life, and save travel, labor, and energy costs.

The Power Stone and the IP Power Stone 4000 give digital signage providers multiple control options by browser, phone, auto fault detection, scheduling, and even MSN chat. Affordable yet invaluable, Multi-Link puts remote networks back in your control.

Powerful Benefits 

Reduce Costly On-Site Service Visits
Reduce Downtime
Control Power Consumption
Instant ROI with One Saved Service Visit

The Power Stone (PST59112)

IP4000

View The Power Stone Data Sheet

View IP Power Stone 4000 Data Sheet

Multi-Link Cost Savings Calculator ~ Remote Power Controlv.3

Two effective ways of controlling power remotely

With an increasing number of remote devices deployed in-band and out-of-band within network platforms, companies need reboot solutions using one or both methods—and Multi-Link has them. Multi-Link’s remote power controllers help IT administrators improve device uptime, increase problem response time, extend equipment life, and save travel, labor, and energy costs. The Power Stone and the Internet Power Stone give IT departments multiple remote reboot options by browser, phone, auto fault detection, scheduling, and even MSN chat. Affordable yet invaluable, Multi-Link puts remote networks back in your control.

The Stick enables phone, fax, and modems to share ONE telephone line.

The Stick Phone/Data Line Sharing Switch

The Stick (STK29112) routes any incoming analog signal to the correct telephony device. With four available ports, a wide variety of devices can be attached to the Stick including  voice lines, fax machines, modems, or important business applications like credit card or PoS terminals. Devices will be detected and routed correctly and with barge in protection — uninterrupted.  This line sharing device can be programmed via an attached phone, or remotely. With the need for only one phone line, costs can be drastically reduced with a ROI within months, not years.

Customer Benefits

1. Plug and Play installation, no software installation or firmware upgrades
2. Eliminate unnecessary phone lines, save up to $600/year*
3. Pays for itself in 3 months with just 1 line reduction
4. Add new equipment without paying for additional telephone lines
5. Program the device via the keypad, add security access codes or even program remotely by phone
6. Non-volatile memory means no reprogramming after a power outage
7. Barge-in protection prevents active calls from being interrupted by another device

* Amount based off $50 per month average phone line charg

Applications

• Out-of-Band Network Access
• Energy Management Controls
• Point-of-Sale System Integration
• Modem Polling
• Fuel Tank Monitoring
• Automated Meter Reading
• Small/Home Office
• Service Port Access
• Remote Equipment Maintenance

Download The Stick Data Sheet