[Asterisk-Users] total newbie sanity check

[Mike Stupak]

I’m a total newbie at this telephony stuff but I'm putting together a low cost PBX for my small company and wanted a check on the h/w I’m planning on ordering and my system configuration.  Any input is appreciated.  Take it offline and email me directly if appropriate ([EMAIL PROTECTED]).  Here’s what I’m planning:     === Parts List ===   1 Digium Wildcard TDM400P w/ 4-port FXO bundle             I’m planning on using this to connect to a few CO POTS lines.   A mid-range computer (600MHz or so w/ 512 MB RAM)   Some form of Linux (fedora?)   Asterisk   10/100 Ethernet card (in the computer)   10/100 Ethernet Switch (8 port or so)   A few SIP capable phones   === End Parts List ===     And now a few questions:   1)       Is this a feasible system?  Am I missing any important hardware?   2)       What is a good Linux to use?  I’m reasonably proficient w/ Linux.   3)       Do I need to tell the phone company anything special or do I just have them connect up standard phone lines?   4)       Can the phone company usually roll the calls onto a spare incoming CO line?  (e.g. if the first line is busy - route it to the second line, if the 2nd is busy – route to the 3rd, etc.)  Is there a special name for feature this that the phone company will recognize?   5)       I’d like to support a special feature – I’d like to have 2 different incoming phone numbers (on all lines) and have asterisk multiplex to the right voice menu system based on the incoming phone number.  Is this possible?  Does it require special features from the phone company?   That’s all for now (though I’m sure this won’t be my last post.  Thanks again for any help.     - Mike Stupak