BICC Bearer Independent Call Control
BICC is protocol used in IP based transport networks in order to set up voice calls, typically between MGCFs (Media Gateway Control Functions). BICC is based on ISUP and as such uses a very similar message set. The difference between the two is that ISUP is based on a narrowband signalling bearer, whereas BICC is designed to run over a broadband network (typically IP but other protocols are possible).Therefore, when BICC is establishing a call, it is not establishing a TDM through connection (which is what ISUP usually does). Instead, BICC sets up a media bearer, which may be based on IP or ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode).
