Common channel signaling event detection and control

Abstract

A system and method for utilizing a common channel signaling network controlling a communications system to detect predetermined events and to execute a predetermined script upon detection of those events. This is accomplished using the common channel signaling network in conjunction with programmable and addressable monitors coupled to the common channel signaling links connected to the signaling transfer points (STPs) . These monitors are programmed to trap and temporarily record predetermined data associated with specific events which it is desired to memoralize. The monitors provide an output to a control processor having an SSP capability which is linked to the STPs. The monitors are programmed either through the common channel signaling network or through a monitor port connected to the control processor to collect data including the identities of called and calling stations and data from which the duration of connection of the call may be determined. This data is utilized to calculate a toll parameter and this toll parameter is added to pre-existing toll parameter for the calling station. When the new total toll parameter equals or exceeds a predetermined toll credit parameter for the calling station corrective action is taken to prevent said total from further exceeding said predetermined toll credit.