Summary

Videophone, videoconferencing and other conversational multimedia services on fixed bit-rate networks (such as ISDN) depend on the multiplex structure described in Recommendation ITU‑T H.221. The control channel within this multiplex is the so‑called bit-rate allocation signal (BAS) position in each frame. This Recommendation describes all the point‑to‑point procedures involving the BAS codes: initial capability exchange and mode initialization, including restricted‑network operation; in‑session mode switching, including audiovisual mode changes and activation of data channels; other procedures, including single/multiple channel interconnection, encryption, mode‑preference indication, conveyance of network addresses and use of BAS extension codes.

This revised version of Recommendation ITU-T H.242 introduces a number of enhancements and clarifications to the previous version, primarily the description on the usage of G.719 and Annex C of Recommendation ITU-T G.722.1 (14 kHz audio) in H.320 systems.