For years, I've played with my 4-port embedded-linux Asterisk PBX (the IP04 from rowetel.com). Now, I've finally decided to move it out of the toychest and into real use.
I haven't come to this decision lightly; it is going to take some work to get this device configured to properly serve my home as it's PBX. First off, I have to set the IP04 up at the telephone demarkation point, with the POTS inbound line connected to the IP04 FXO port and the various inside lines connected to the three FXS ports. Along with that, I have to ensure a regular power supply for the IP04 and an ethernet connection from my LAN to the device.
Next up, channel definitions and dialplans. I've played around with both, and have a good handle on what I want. But there is a large difference between the setup I used to play with, and the setup I need for my home PBX. My intention is to have the PBX provide a "buffer" between incoming calls and my household. It will attempt to deter unsolicited commercial calls, and direct calls (to voicemail if necessary) based on time of day. So, no more telemarketer calls, and (if I wish) no incoming calls during dinner time or after bedtime.
I will manage some of the complexity of this buffer through a web interface, and (possibly) suitably timed cron scripts. So, I'm looking at how I can use the IP04's Asterisk Management Interface to give me the flexibility of control and simplicity of use that I need. Some server-side scripting, some IP04 web scripting, and I'll have a neat, easy-to-use control for my robot receptionist.
Finally, I want to track phone usage for billing and planning purposes. This means using the IP04's Asterisk Call Detail Recording system, and a set of MySQL tables and server-side scripts to import and manipulate data. I expect to produce monthly reports that I can match back to my telephone bills; Bell Canada, you've been served notice.
I also have a couple of blue-sky ideas that I'm looking to persue:
- Use the IP04 to connect to a VoIP provider under a 2nd phone number, so that I can have a cheaper POTS bill, and
- Permit selected SIP connections inside my LAN, to give the residents here more flexibility in their telephone choices
I have partially implemented local SIP connections, and have started researching bulk VoIP providers. Who knows? Bell might not have me as a customer for much longer.
