All CME member firms now communicate with us via TCP/IP through our FIN (frame relay) network. The CME has always REQUIRED that all member firms and facilities-managing service/software vendors maintain static back-up circuit connections to the Exchange.

What We are Testing

This weekend, we will be accessing every FIN connection to confirm that your back-up circuits are in place and functioning, as we would expect. The firm does not have to take any action, nor be present for the test. We will dial in remotely. We strongly encourage you to verify that NO ONE has moved or disconnected our circuits. Please make certain that these lines have not been swapped in your communications room/closet with another ISDN or dial circuit. Furthermore, modems that monitor the FIN routers should never be moved or duo-connected for some other purpose, like Internet or FAX access.

All FIN (frame relay) connections, have an ISDN line that automatically switches over when the primary 56kb or T-1 line at the firm site fails. The dial-up line (POTS) that is connected to a modem that monitors the FIN router, allows us to maintain and troubleshoot the connection. If your connection is in Chicago, the CME ordered the ISDN and POTS circuits. However, if the circuits have been moved without our knowledge, we will not be able to establish a connection. For non-Chicago connections, the ISDN and POTS lines were ordered locally by the firm and numbers provided to Client Management. Once again, if the circuits have been moved or changed and we were not given this information, we will not be able to establish a connection.

What Happens After the Test

If your firm fails this test, you will receive a warning letter from Client Management. A copy of this letter will also be sent to the President of the Clearing House. You will be required to re-test with us within 5 days of receiving your letter. If your firms fails 2 or more back-up connections tests, sanctions may be levied.

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 to or receive any data from the CME is terminated.

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 orders 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.

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.