Gateway FAQ:
Q: What is the DBMS SMS gateway?
A: The gateway is a software product that runs in background on a Windows PC in your own office. It controls the cell modem, which sends out the text messages.
Q: What is a cell modem?
A: Its a cell phone designed to take commands from a PC rather than from its own screen and keypad.
Q: Does this interfere with sending alpha pages or text messages by other means?
A: No. Email and dialup alpha traffic are handled as they always were, through your existing alpha modem and email system.
Q: Do the operators need special software to send SMS?
A: The operators send "alpha pages" through the system you already have. The ones designated as SMS go through the gateway and out the cell modem.
Q: Do I need a software license per operator?
A: No. Its one per system.
Q: Do I need a separate PC for the gateway?
A: You need a PC, but it does not have to be decicated to this task. The gateway can run in the background on a PC that you use for other purposes. Just remember not to turn it off when you leave for the night.
Q: How does the TAS equipment know to send to the gateway instead of the alpha modem.
A: Its in the programing of the individual alpha, and transparent to the operator.
Q: Can I have multiple cell phones per account?
A: Yes. Since this is done at the individual alpha level rather than per-account, you can have as many as you need.
Q: Your drawing shows an internet connection. What is that for?
A: The gateway may optionally send messages by email, and can resend SMS replies to an email destination.
Q: If the cell modem is a cell phone, do I need to sign it up for cell service?
A: Yes. Get the least expensive plan with the fewest minutes you can find, and add unlimited text messaging.
Q: Why a cell modem rather than a cell phone with a USB connection?
A: There are thousands of different cell phones, each with a slightly different command set, and the models change daily. The cell modem provides a consistent interface, and is not locked to any one carrier.
