Glossary Terms - "L"
LAN (Local Area Network)
A user-owned, user-operated, high-volume data transmission network connecting a number of
communicating devices (computers, terminals, printers, etc.) within a single room, building,
or campus.
LATA. Local Access Transport Area
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Defines that area, in a state served by a Bell telephone company, in which, under current
federal Telecommunications Act rules, the company can provide service. Each Service Area may
include one or more area codes or share a common area code.
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One of 161 geographic areas within which a local exchange company may provide service. InterLATA
service is provided by long distance (interexchange) carrier.
Leased Line
A dedicated circuit, typically supplied by the telephone company or transmission authority,
that permanently connects two or more user locations, and is for the sole use of the
subscriber. Such circuits are generally voice grade in capacity and in the range of
frequencies supported. Typically analog, and used for voice or data, can be point-to-point
or multipoint, and can be enhanced with line conditioning. Also called private line.
Least Cost Routing
A system that chooses the cheapest long distance method for an outgoing call.
LEC. Local Exchange Carrier
Provider of Local exchange services; includes the Bell Companies and all independent telcos.
LERG
The Local Exchange Routing Guide. A database managed by Telcordia and used for all routing
instructions. Assignments define which NXX is assigned to which switch and allows for rerouting
of calls to a different switch from which it was originally assigned.
LIDB
Line Information Database. Used to assign ownership of toll free numbers and now local numbers,
so that they become portable.
LOA
Letter of Authority. A formal document used to request customer information from one service
provider to another. It must be signed by the customer authorizing the research. This form may
or may not give the requesting company authority to make changes to the customers service
depending on how it is worded.
Loading Coil
An induction device employed in local loops exceeding 18,000 feet in length, that compensates
for wire capacitance and boosts voice grade frequencies. Often removed for higher speed data
services, as distortion will occur at frequencies higher than those used for voice.
Local Loop
The communications channel, usually a physical line, between the subscriber's location and his
local central office. Also known as the subscriber loop.
Local Calling Area
A prescribed geographic region in which calls can be made without incurring Long Distance Charges.
This information will include rate center identification.
Local Service
Charges for recurring flat-rate monthly service, measured local calls, local private lines, local
use of public telephones and local directory assistance.
Local Service Request
The document sent to the local exchange company describing services in technical detail. This form
is commonly faxed in early communications and later transmitted in NDM (network data mover) format.
Long Haul Communications
In the public telephone network, a term of indefinite meaning describing circuits spanning
considerable distances, generally applied to interLATA or interstate communications.
Loop Start
The most commonly used method of signaling an off-hook condition between an analog phone set and a
switch, where picking up the receiver closes a wire loop, allowing DC current to flow, which is
detected by a PBX or local exchange and interpreted as a request for service.
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