A switch connects loops to other loops, and connects loops to trunks for transporting a call to another central office or to a long-distance carrier. Switches can also provide end users with vertical features such as call waiting, call forwarding, and caller ID, and can direct a call to a specific trunk, such as the competing carrier s operator services. Nondiscriminatory access to unbundled local switching is necessary so that competitors can offer, and bill for, exchange access and the termination of local traffic. Southwestern Bell demonstrated that it provides nondiscriminatory access to unbundled switching. 911 and E911, Directory Assistance, and Operator Services 911 and E911 services transmit calls from end users to emergency personnel.
Directory assistance provides customers with telephone numbers.
Operators perform various call completion services. The BOC must provide competing carriers with accurate and nondiscriminatory access to these services so that these competitors customers are able to reach emergency assistance, directory assistance and operator services. Nondiscriminatory access to 911 and E911, directory assistance, and operator services ensures that consumers have access to these services from a competing carrier. Directory Listings White pages are the directory listings of telephone numbers of residences and businesses in a particular area. This checklist item ensures that white pages listings for customers of different carriers are comparable, in terms of accuracy and reliability, notwithstanding the identity of the customer s telephone service provider.