Question 26/XI - Definitions for switching and signalling
(Continuation of Question 18/XI, studied in 1985-1988)

Considering

(a) that the need for uniformity of terminology in all Study Groups
studying digital systems;

(b) that the need to base this terminology on a set of fundamental
telecommunication definitions;

(c) that the need to harmonize the definition of terms, for example,
terms such as "call", "connection", "function" and "transit", where
there are differences in definition and application by other Study
Groups,

What definitions should be given to terms used for switching and
signalling in the evolving telecommunications networks?

ANNEX 1

Terms of reference for Study Group XI on aspects of mobile systems

For the forthcoming study period, Study Group XI will direct its efforts
to the study of Questions relating to mobile satellite systems of all
three mobile services: land, maritime and aeronautical, as well as to
the study of Questions concerning only the land mobile service.
(Questions 17XI and 18XI.)

It is most desirable in the forthcoming period not to lose sight of the
problems concerning the maritime mobile service operating not only in
the INMARSAT satellite system but also in traditional VHF and HF bands.

In these bands, increasing use is being made of the automatic telephone
service between ships and land subscribers as well as of the systems of
the automatic printing service with their switching to the telex
network.

The types of services mentioned above will play a decisive role in a new
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), the main provisions
of which were adopted by the WARC on Mobile Services in 1987.

Some parts of the new GMDSS are already in operation, e.g., the COSPAS-
SARSAT system, which has already saved more than 1,500 human lives.

Regarding the problem of GMDSS, CCIR Study Group 8, which met in April
1988, requested that the CCITT's attention be drawn to the importance
and urgency of studies of Questions connected with the introduction of
the GMDSS.

The IX CCITT Plenary Assembly agreed that Study Group XI in its future
work should take into account this concern expressed by CCIR Study Group
8 for an urgent decision on important problems related to a noble task,
namely the saving of human lives.