CPS Frequently Asked Questions

 
   

Please click on a question below to view a detailed answer.

What is CPS?

Why do I need CPS when I can already choose to route my call via a routing box on the wall?

How does CPS differ from existing methods?

Are there any call types that CPS doesn't apply to?

If the switch uses the originator's CLI to identify the incoming call, does this mean that I can no longer withold my number when making outbound calls?

What are the benifits of introducing CPS?

If I use CPS, will I be able to use BT Select Services?

What is CPS?
A: Carrier pre-selection (CPS) is a mechanism that allows you to select an alternative operator to route your voice calls, other than BT, in advance without dialling additional codes on the telephone or programming your on-site equipment to do this.

Why do I need CPS when I can already choose to route my calls via a routing box on the wall ?
A: At present, although you can use an alternative carrier to BT, it involves the dialling of a 3 or 4 digit access code before each phone call. This is called indirect access and either involves the manual dialling of the code, the programming of your on-site PBX or the provisioning of routing equipment by your chosen carrier.
With the introduction of CPS as a way of increasing competitiveness in the European telecommunications market, by making indirect access simpler and more reliable. Oftel, the UK regulator, is overseeing and enforcing the introduction of CPS in the UK.

How does CPS differ from existing methods?
A: previously, when you ordered indirect services from Global Telecom or another supplier you will have smart equipment fitted to your BT Network Termination Equipment (NTE) on-site by an engineer. CPS is a better alternative to current indirect access methods, because it routes calls at your local switch (BT does the work on behalf of Global Telecom). The switch is programmed to acknowledge that relevant calls from your CLI should be routed over the chosen carriers network when they arrive at the local exchange. The re-routing of calls from the BT network to our network is seamless, there is no downtime and you do not need an engineers visit. On-site visits are only necessary when de-programming of least-cost routing on Customer Premise Equipment (CPE) is required.

Are there any call types that CPS doesn't apply to?
A: Yes, CPS will not apply to calls using Type A short codes (e.g. 100, 999, 112, 192) or Type C (operator specific) short codes or the 0844 04yyxxx and 0808 99yyxxx number ranges used for unmetered interconnect Internet access. Therefore, at the moment CPS will not automatically route directory enquiry calls.

If the switch uses the originator's CLI to identify the incoming call, does this mean that I can no longer withhold my number when making outbound calls?
A: No. You can continue to use the 141 service to withhold your number. This is because 141 is always implemented at the destination local exchange. Your CLI always travels with the call as far as the destination local exchange, before being removed to cross the local loop to the end receiver.

What are the benefits of introducing CPS?
Improved Service Levels - CPS is a more robust method of providing indirect services, than smart equipment and LCR. The result is improved delivery of CPS.

Reduced Call Costs - CPS guarantees 100% call routing of the appropriate calls providing all CLI lines have been accurately recorded. You will benefit from competitive call charges and know that all calls will be automatically routed rather then having some call still routed via BT and charges at their rates.

Convenience - No longer will you have to suffer downtime during installation, engineer visits or be concerned about incompatibility problems between CPE equipment and smart equipment.

If I use CPS, will I be able to use BT Select Services?
A: CPS will affect different BT Select Services in different ways:

Call Diversion - BT's Call Diversion, Call Minder and Enhanced Call Return are supported

Call Barring - Call barring will be available with CPS. Cable & Wireless can offer call barring on particular numbers chosen by you on our network. You can contact BT directly to have certain numbers barred on the BT network. This will not affect calls routed over the Cable & Wireless network.

141/1471 - CPS will not affect the 141/1471 service.

1571 - CPS
will enhance this service as when you dial '3' to return a call, this call is routed via your chosen carrier.

Three Way Call - This will continue to be available with all outbound calls routed via your chosen carrier.

Call Forwarding - Call forwarding is available with the additional benefit that the forwarded element of the call is also routed via your chosen operator.

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