o What is the "demarc"? Is it the jack/punch-block where the SmartJack is connected to? The demarc (short for demarcation point) is the last place on a circuit that

the carrier is responsible. With a T1 this is typically some sort of semi-intelligent device (NIU, smartjack) that responds to remote loop commands and has a RJ48 jack. Some LECs hand off on 66 blocks. YMMV.

o What is an "MPOE"? The MPOE is the Minimum Point of Entry of a building. (Sometime called the MPOP- Minimum Point of Presence) This is typically the room in which the LECs CO cables are terminated (but not always). This is where any non-extended demarcs will be.

o What is the "NIU"? The NIU (Network Interface Unit) is a multifunction device and does a bunch of stuff (surge protector, loop, etc) quite often the term NIU and smartjack can be used interchangeably.

o Where is the SmartJack normally located? In your offices or somewhere else in the building (maybe some room where the cable to the CO is terminated)? The smartjack will almost always be located at the MPOE. Even if you get an extended demarc they won't move the it.

One note of advise- whoever you use as the provider (AT&T, MCI, L3 etc) make an extended demarc part of the order from the very beginning. Essentially you want the provider to be responsible for the whole thing, up to the 6' cable to your equipment. This will alleviate any finger pointing if your able to say 'it doesn't work at my router- I don't care who does it, but get it fixed.' One call (well, at least one organization) is all you'll have to deal with. The carrier will try to test to the NIU, then the CSU. If they can run clean to the NIU but not the CSU they'll call you back to verify power- then dispatch someone to test from the extended demarc. HTH, Jeff ************************************************************** This message, including any attachments, contains confidential information intended for a specific individual and purpose, and is protected by law. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact sender immediately by reply e-mail and destroy all copies. You are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, or distribution of this message, or the taking of any action based on it, is strictly prohibited. TIAA-CREF **************************************************************