Topic: SAIL - Alias Feature Not Working Correctly

[sonoracomm]

Hi Folks,

I'm trying to configure a new install using selintra-sail-2.1.14-501 on a new server.   The server was updated to 7.2.

What I'm trying to do is route inbound calls.  I want inbound calls to ring the Operator extension for about 12 seconds, then go to the main IVR if the operator doesn't answer.

I created an Alias and I routed the trunks to this new alias.  I configured the alias named 'incoming' as group type 'ring', number to be directed as extension 5001 (the operator), ring delay 12 and outcome as the main IVR greeting.

The problem is that the operator extension rings and finally goes to the extension 5001 voicemail.  No matter what I set the ring delay to, it always goes to voicemail.  The IVR never starts.

1)  Is there a better way to do this?
2)  Am I just doing something wrong?
3)  Is this a bug?
4)  Should I use a custom app?  Suggestion for custom app?

TIA,

G

[SARK devs]

Hi G

Yes, it is a bug of sorts.   It's kind of lost in the history of the AGI and the fact that it is rare for someone to want to ring a number and then go to IVR (or maybe not - it's just as valid as anything else).  However, as an aside, you've taught us something.... we didn't know you could get away with using a character string for an aliasname.  We will either have to put an edit in to stop it happening or announce it as a feature... we aren't sure which at the moment

Anyhow, back to your problem.  When you only specify a single number in an Alias, the outcome is ignored and the number is called using the regular dialler.  The logic behind this is that it will outcome to the Call forward or Vmail settings on the phone.  However, when you specify more than one number it is not possible to take the individual phone outcomes (forwards etc) so the Alias uses the outcome value you set.  

As a workaround you can create an extension with no phone on it (say 8888).  Simply include the dummy extension (8888) in the ring group.  It won't ring, there isn't any phone there, but it will fool the AGI into using the outcome (your IVR).

This isn't very pretty but it will work and we'll look at aliases again to see if there is a smarter way of achieving your objective.

Kind Regards

S

[sonoracomm]

Hi Jeff,

Makes sense.  I tried it and it works.  I already had a dummy extension created for use as a General Mailbox, so I used that.

But you're right...it's not exactly pretty.

Thanks for the great support!

G