emv@math.lsa.umich.edu (Edward Vielmetti) (09/22/89)
What's the story on those (rare) numbers that I see listed in the phone book as something like this: Foonly Enterprises call Operator and ask for Enterprise 2368 If I had to guess it was a long-ago version of the 800 number scheme, but it would be nice to get some more info. Edward Vielmetti, U of Michigan Math dept. [Moderator's Note: 'Enterprise' a/k/a/ 'Zenith' numbers were an early version of automatic reverse charge calling, serving the same function as 800 numbers do today. When you dialed your operator and asked for Enterprise xxxx, the operator consulted first her own records, and if necessary, the Rate and Route people. Like many 800 numbers on non-dedicated lines, Enterprise numbers translated to some regular number where the subscriber had authorized automatic acceptance of collect calls. Like 800 numbers, not all Enterprise numbers were valid in all places. Some were local only, some were long distance only, or some other combination. All Enterprise calls had to be placed manually by dialing the operator and asking for the number. Some Enterprise numbers were non-pub, just like some 800 numbers, and were only used internally by the subscriber's employees. If it appeared in the phone book, a list of acceptable calling points was included. Enterprise service is no longer offered, but is grandfathered to subscribers who want to keep it for some reason instead of 800 service. PT]