10 Digit Dialing

NEW 10-digit Local Dialing

You may start using 10-digit local dialing now if your telephone system allows for it. As of September 12, 2008, 10-digit local dialing will become mandatory for local calls within the 250 region.

Your telephone system may require programming (see below for system types) to allow for this change

As of June 23rd, 2008, if you only dial 7 digits, you will hear a recorded message reminding you to dial all 10 digits next time. Note: this announcement may affect data transmission.

You will require programming if you use the following:

  • cell phone or pager notification
  • call forwarding
  • after-hours notification
  • speed dial

Speed dial programming can be done by the user. Programming documents are available on our website at www.topstelecom.com or you may refer to your user guides/documentation.

The following systems will require programming by a technician to accommodate 10-digit local dialing:

  • Toshiba CTX/CIX
  • Mitel
  • any systems with PRI

The following systems should not require technician programming for basic operation:

  • Toshiba DK
  • Nortel Norstar
  • Panasonic
  • Trillium Panther
  • Talk-to
  • Delphi

Voicemail systems will require programming only if notification is in place.

If you are unsure whether or not your system requires programming, try dialing a 10-digit local number to see if your call goes through.

If you have a Tops Telecom Partner Agreement, these programming changes will be made for you no charge. Otherwise, this programming is billable.

If you do not have a Tops Telecom Partner Agreement and are interested in obtaining one, please contact Kathryn Smithson-Gervais at 250-979-6714.

As a reminder, you should also update the following:

  • fax machines
  • alarm systems
  • cellular phones and other wireless devices
  • modems/internet connections
  • databases
  • business cards, stationery, invoices/cheques, websites, etc.

Note: all 3-digit numbers, such as 911 emergency will remain 3-digit numbers

Here are some helpful documents to repgrogram some systems yourself: