jlangri@relay.nswc.navy.mil (04/11/91)
In an article from TELECOM DIGEST V11 #265 on April 3rd, 1991, Gilbert Amine made two products known: ANI-232 from Rochelle Communications and CLASSMATE 10, developed by MHE Systems and distributed by Bell Atlantic Business Supplies. Since I have had an interest in linking Caller ID to our databases here at work, I decided to try one. First, I called the Contel bussiness office to confirm Caller ID was available? "Yes Sir, That service is provided to your numbers." Second, I phoned Bell Atlantic. Yes I could return the item for any reason within 30 days for full refund or credit. So I had them send me a CLASSMATE 10. It arrived two days later. Except for the package, I was impressed. The device itself was just a hair larger than a pack Camel 100s. The associated software was supplied on a 5 1/4 floppy disk. The software included a neat little "database" utility that allowed me to enter names, addresses and associated info along with phone numbers of prospective callers. It worked like a champ! (at home). When it failed to perform at the office I again called Contel; "No Sir, Caller ID is not provided to your numbers." After several more attempts to get the answer I wanted to hear again, The regional manager explained that Caller ID was "Not in the two year plan" for my company's area. He apologized for the misinformation I was given at the begining. Oh well, "Nothing ventured, Nothing gained." Jim Langridge | jlangri@relay.nswc.navy.mil | 703 663 2137 Synetics Corp. | | 703 663 3050 (FAX) 24 Danube Dr. | | King George, VA. | 22553-5000 |