Toll Operating Methods

A-Board Toll (AB) Method.² This is the simplest and most direct method of handling toll calls. The calling party signals his local A-board operator by lifting the handset or receiver, or by dialing "0" in dial systems. This operator takes the call, records it, and trunks it, usually by the straightforward or the dial method, to the desired point. These additional duties decrease the number of local calls an operator can handle but give the customer substantially the same service as for local connections.

Combined Line and Recording (C.L.R.) Method.² This is an outgrowth of the single-ticket method² formerly used. The calling party asks the A-board operator for, or dials, "Long Distance." The outward toll operator takes the call, plugs in on a trunk to the desired city, and rings on the line if ringdown trunking is being used. While waiting for the called operator to answer, the calling operator records the call. When an inward toll operator in the desired city answers, the call is passed and completed over the trunk being used.

These paragraphs have described the simplest calls only; person-to-person calls, for example, often introduce delays and variations of the methods considered. Also, direct circuits are not provided for all possible originating toll calls. But, in most instances, the calling party remains at the telephone until the call is completed.