As you are aware, the CME requires that all member firms and facilities-managing service/software vendors maintain static back-up circuit connections to the Exchange. Firms that are still on 9.6 and 19.2 leased lines have a dial-up (POTS) line number that is dialed by the CME, in the event the primary line fails. Firms that are on the FIN have an ISDN line that automatically switches over when the primary 56kb or T-1 line fails. There is also a dial-up line that is connected to a modem which monitors the FIN router for troubleshooting connection issues. Each of these dial-up numbers are very critical for a smooth transition when primary circuit problems occur.

This past week we experienced a circuit problem here at the CME. In discovered in our efforts to recover that several firms had changed their POTS line numbers, disconnected the circuits or turned off the modem!!! This is clearly in violation of our long standing policy. Firms should never move or change any circuits that are utilized for trade submission or production TOPS without first notifying Systems Liaison in writing! If circuits, modems or routers are changed in any way without our knowledge, it can SIGNIFICANTLY DELAY our ability to assist you in re-establishing communications for your firm. As a result, your ability to send or receive any data with the CME is stopped.

Note: Clearing members already know that failure to submit trade data or meet other data processing deadlines, such as GUS acceptances, can result in a fine from the Clearing House. Furthermore, without a back-up, firms are unable to submit order to TOPS or download critical information from the CME such as GLOBEX and GUS confirmation records. Therefore, it is critically important that recovery from communication problems is expeditious.

We strongly encourage every member firm to verify that dial line(s) are connected to their related CME modem and that the modem is turned on! Please make certain that this line has not been swapped in your communications room/closet with another dial circuit. Furthermore, modems that monitor the FIN routers, should never be moved or duo-connected for some other purpose, like Internet access or a fax machine. In order to confirm/update our records, please enter your dial-up circuit information for each location in the form (text boxes) provided below and return it to Systems Liaison.

During the next several weeks, we will be verifying all FIN connections to ensure that we can access your CME router. If we cannot access your modem or router, the back-office manager will receive a warning notice from Systems Liaison.

If you have any questions, please contact Karen F. McCoy at (312) 930-4524 (kmccoy@cme.com) or Farris Oweimrin at (312) 648-4780 (foweimri@cme.com) Thank you. Your cooperation is most appreciated.