BayPackets Raises $14 Million

BayPackets, a start-up based in Fremont, California with a subsidiary in India, raised $14 million in fourth round funding for its enhanced voice and data solutions for wireless, wireline and cable operators.


BayPackets' Agility Networks Services Platform (NSP) and SIP Application Server are IMS-compliant service delivery platforms that enable operators to deliver differentiated services and service bundles. With BayPackets, the creation, deployment, and management of applications and their service logic are decoupled from the underlying transport network. This allows the company's service delivery platforms to operate on circuit-switched, packet-based or converged networks. In addition to applications such as Prepaid, Unified Messaging, Voice VPN, Advanced Toll Free, BayPackets provides a Software Development Kit (SDK) with tools and resources to quickly build new services.


BayPackets said its customer lists includes the largest VoIP network provider in North America and the largest broadband provider in Japan, among others.


The latest funding round was co-led by Investcorp and Telesoft Partners. Telesoft Partners Managing Director George Schmitt also joins BayPackets' board of directors as chairman of the Board.
http://www.baypackets.com

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Atheros Debuts 802.11a/g + PCI Express Solution

Atheros Communications introduced a single-chip IEEE 802.11a/g (Atheros AR5006EX) and 802.11g (Atheros AR5006EG) WLAN solution with support for PCI Express. The chips integrate an entire WLAN solution-media access controller (MAC), baseband processor, and a high-performance 2.4/5-GHz radio or 2.4-GHz radio-in a low-cost digital CMOS design.


Atheros said the solution enables the entire WLAN solution to fit on a single-sided mini card or ExpressCard design. This represents Atheros' sixth-generation wireless LAN solution.


Additionally, both chips support robust security standard with IEEE 802.11i. An AES encryption engine is built into the hardware of all Atheros 802.11a/g and 802.11g chipsets, allowing real-time encryption with no performance degradation in computing, consumer electronics and wireless broadband applications. Atheros' chipsets also support wireless multimedia and draft 802.11e QoS specifications.


Atheros is currently sampling the AR5006EX and AR5006EG to lead customers. Volume production is expected in Q3 2005.


http://www.atheros.com

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Broadcom Integrates Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2 in GigE Controllers

Broadcom has integrated Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2 functionality into its latest NetXtreme Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) controllers. TPM, a security standard created by the Trusted Computing Group (TCG) for a hardware-based secure computing environment, provides a more secure environment based on a trusted root protected in hardware. Integrating TPM security into NetXtreme GbE controller chips enables PC OEMs to offer this security as a standard feature on all enterprise client personal computers. Two versions of the GbE controller are currently in production.


Broadcom said platforms with TPM 1.2 hardware will be ready for enhanced security functionality in Microsoft forthcoming "Longhorn" OS due in late 2006.
http://www.broadcom.com

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Sprint Supports Orb Networks' Home Media Streaming

Orb Networks and Sprint announced the immediate availability of a free, new service that enables Sprint local wireline telephone customers subscribing to Sprint's DSL to remotely access their digital home media through high-speed broadband. This new service, Sprint Personal Media Link, powered by Orb, gives these consumers the ability to access digital content on a home personal computer with Microsoft Windows XP or Microsoft Windows Media Center Edition XP from virtually anywhere in the world via a laptop computer or wireless device.

Sprint intends to initially roll out the Sprint Personal Media Link service through its consumer Web site and the service will also become part of the Sprint high-speed Internet customer enrollment.
http://www.orb.com/http://local.sprint.com/home/local/dsl/DSL_home.html

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2Wire Offers ADSL2/2+ Gateway with VoIP Ports

2Wire introduced a new residential gateway featuring an ADSL2/2+ modem, integrated VoIP ports, integrated router, 802.11g with high power 400mW transmitter, firewall and a USB 2.0 port for network-attached storage, print-servers, etc. The new HomePortal 2000 series also supports the DSL Forum's TR-069 industry standard, ensuring compatibility with any standardized back-end component management system, and introduces TR-059 and pre WT-098 support for carrier-grade Quality of Service and policy provisioning.


http://www.2wire.com/

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Audiocodes Reports Rise in Revenues

Audiocodes reported quarterly revenue $26.9 million compared to $25.2 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2004 and $15.3 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2004. First quarter revenues grew 7% sequentially and increased 76% compared to the first quarter of 2004. Net income for the first quarter of 2005 was $3.0 million, or $0.07 per basic and diluted share, compared to a net loss of $43,000, or $(0.00) per basic and diluted share, for the corresponding period last year. The period marked Audiocodes' fourteenth consecutive quarter of revenue growth.
http://www.audiocodes.com

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Communications Workers of America Support SBC+AT&T Merger

The Communications Workers of America filed comments with the FCC supporting SBC's proposed acquisition of AT&T. "The merger is clearly in the public interest," CWA said, noting that it will create a "premier U.S. communications company, one with the ability to expand the delivery of advanced technologies, services and features to all classes of customers."http://www.cwa-union.org

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VeriSign to Acquire Lightbridge for IN

VeriSign agreed to acquire to Lightbridge's Intelligent Network Solutions (INS) technology platform and customer base for $17.45 million in cash plus the assumption of certain contractual liabilities. The Lightbridge PrepayIN platform is an Intelligent Network solution that provides real-time rating for voice, data, and IN-based services, empowering mobile operators to deliver prepaid, hybrid, and postpaid charging capabilities to their subscribers.


VeriSign said the acquired PrepayIN platform will augment its Service Portfolio for North American-based Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) who are expected to target largely untapped prepaid segments to drive subscriber volume.


http://www.verisign.com

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SBC Adds 504,000 DSL Subscribers in Q1

SBC Communications announced its best quarter for DSL to date, adding 504,000 net DSL lines in Q1 and giving it a total base of 5.6 million lines in service. Over the past four quarters, SBC has added more than 1.6 million DSL lines. The company also added 1.1 million long distance lines to reach 22 million. Some highlights for Q1:


Revenues - SBC's first-quarter 2005 revenues increased 2.4% to $10.2 billion, with wireline revenues up 2.8% and consumer wireline revenues up 3.9% , marking SBC's fourth consecutive quarter of positive revenue growth. Earnings were $885 million, or $0.27 per diluted share on a reported basis, and $1.1 billion, or $0.34 per diluted share before merger-related expenses at Cingular Wireless, which is 60% owned by SBC.


Bundles - SBC's penetration of retail consumer lines with at least one key service - long distance, DSL, joint-billed Cingular Wireless or SBC | DISH Network video - increased to 64 percent at the end of the first quarter, up from 50 percent a year earlier. Driven by success with bundled services, SBC's average revenue per retail consumer access line increased 8.4 percent versus the year-ago first quarter.


Data Revenues - Wireline data revenues grew 6.7 percent to $2.8 billion, driven by robust DSL/Internet growth, along with solid results in transport and integration services. SBC ranks No. 1 among its immediate peers in total data revenues.


Access Lines - SBC posted significant improvement in retail access line trends in the first quarter. Total retail consumer primary lines increased by 16,000, SBC's first quarterly gain in this category in five years and a substantial upturn from declines of 73,000 in the preceding quarter and 156,000 in the first quarter a year ago. Consumer additional lines declined by 104,000 in the first quarter, versus declines of 119,000 in the preceding quarter and 149,000 in the first quarter of 2004. This was SBC's smallest decline in additional lines in four years. SBC's retail business line base declined by 45,000, compared with declines of 74,000 in the preceding quarter and 242,000 in the first quarter a year ago. SBC's switched wholesale lines declined by 343,000 due to a 364,000 decline in UNE-P lines. In the preceding quarter, switched wholesale lines declined by 302,000, and in the first quarter of 2004 they increased by 135,000. SBC ended the first quarter of 2005 with 51.9 million total switched access lines.

http://www.sbc.com

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Data Connection Announces Session Border Controller Software

Data Connection Limited (DCL) began offering Session Border Controller (DC-SBC) software solution for developers of softswitches, routers, gateways, firewalls, and IP PBXs, as well as standalone session border controllers. SBCs are a set of functions that control session-based traffic at the signaling and packet layers, allowing increased security and enhanced features to be deployed in a VoIP network.


The new DC-SBC source code enables OEMs to offer service providers Session Border Controller (SBC) functionality as a software upgrade to platforms already installed in their networks. System vendors benefit by providing platforms with increased service and security capabilities but at reduced development costs and time-to-market.


"SBC features and services are absolutely essential in VoIP networking but are not addressed by the incumbent platforms that provide the foundation of these networks. This fact, combined with the explosion of VoIP services, has created huge demand for SBC functionality which is best served by legacy softswitches and routers," said Phil McConnell, CEO of Data Connection.
http://www.dataconnection.com/sbc

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Intoto Offers SSL-VPN Source Code for CPE

Intoto introduced new multi-service security software for manufacturers of Small-to-Medium Enterprise (SME) gateway applications. Intoto has expanded its iGateway RGS and iGateway EX software platforms and iGateway software modules with SSL-VPN, anti-virus (AV) and anti-spam (AS) functionality, to enhance its existing firewall, intrusion prevention and Web filtering solutions.


iGateway SSL-VPN complements Intoto's current VPN solutions by enabling access to applications to remote users such as telecommuters, mobile employees, customers, and partners. http://www.intoto.com

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BelAir Supplies Wi-Fi Mesh in Bristol, UK

BelAir Networks is supplying its wide-area wireless networking equipment for what is described as the U.K.'s largest wireless hot zone, which is being built in Bristol. The Bristol network, which covers approximately 3 square kilometers, uses four-radio wireless switch routers. Each unite includes a 2.4 GHz access radio module to support Wi-Fi client access and up to three separate 5 GHz backhaul radio modules. The network is used to provide Internet access and to enable city workers to access private networks (VPNs) while working on city streets. The network also provides wireless connectivity for CCTV, allowing cameras to be deployed around street events and for general security surveillance. The Bristol network was conceived by Bristol City Council in partnership with Cityspace, the UK's leading provider of outdoor urban digital networks.


http://www.belairnetworks.com
http://www.cityspace.com

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Qwest Opposes SBC+AT&T Merger

Qwest Communications is urging the FCC to block SBC's proposed acquisition of AT&T on the grounds that it would be bad for the industry. If the FCC does not block the merger outright, Qwest is urging regulators to impose significant conditions on the deal, such as divestitures of facilities and other related overlapping operations in SBC's 13-state operating territory. In addition, Qwest argues that because the proposed merged company will benefit from the elimination of AT&T as a competitor -- and benefit from the elimination of other competitors' access to AT&T's wholesale services and access facilities -- other significant conditions must be imposed in order to attempt to level the playing field.


"The combination of SBC and AT&T as proposed would set our industry back years," said Steve Davis, Qwest senior vice president of public policy. "SBC proposes to acquire its largest competitor and greatest strategic threat. It is inconceivable that this transaction could be in the public interest without the imposition of significant conditions and required divestitures."


Qwest has also filed a protest with the Public Utilities Commission of California opposing SBC's merger with AT&T.


Qwest did not mention its own bid to acquire MCI.
http://www.qwest.com

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net.com Unveils VoIP Migration Platform

net.com introduced a VoIP migration appliance designed to preserve the life of existing PBX's and all associated feature sets while providing any-to-any connectivity between TDM and IP protocols and media.


The new SHOUT2500 Voice Migration Appliance combines a voice router with built in call control, a session border controller for firewall and NAT traversal, a media gateway for connectivity to legacy PBX's and the PSTN, a protocol translator and converter for multi- vendor PBX interconnectivity, SIP and H.323 interworking, and an open programming interface. It routes calls to IP VPNs, the Internet, ITSPs, partners and the PSTN. For the enterprise, this means reduced costs from toll calls, international bandwidth, PBX tie lines, PBX blades, tandem PBX's, and remote worker call charges. The SHOUT2500 enables heterogeneous PBX's to inter work over the IP WAN with full feature transparency. A flexible scripting language also enables complex routing tables to be built that leverage multiple transport networks.


net.com also leverages its own BESTflow (BSP) protocol, which designed to improve the efficiency of transporting multiple calls across an IP link, while ensuring firewall and NAT traversal.


Significantly, net.com is providing tie-ins to Microsoft Live Communications Server and the Genesys call center with SIP to PBX CTI gateway functionality. For instance, a global enterprise would be able to integrate a legacy PBX network with a new SIP-based PBX network using Microsoft's Live Communication Server 2005 and Office Communicator. The company is demonstrating the new product at the Microsoft Partner Solutions Center.
http://www.net.com

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Force10 Packs 1,260 GigE Ports into a Chassis

Force10 Networks introduced the industry's first 90-port Gigabit Ethernet line card, increasing the density of its 14-slot TeraScale E-Series family of switch/routers to more than 1,260 Gigabit Ethernet ports per chassis. This sets a new industry benchmark for Gigabit Ethernet density and represents nearly three times the density of competitive solutions, according to the company.


Force10 Networks said this high-level of GigE port density could lead to more efficient designs of corporate data centers. Rather than deploying several tiers of Ethernet switches, large numbers of enterprise servers could be more easily managed if connected to single, central switch router. The company cited the market momentum for high-density blade servers with multi-core CPUs, as well as the larger trend toward grid computing, leading to denser, more-powerful and more efficient data centers.
http://www.force10networks.com

• In March 2005, Force10 Networks introduce fixed configuration its S50 Gigabit and 10 Gigabit Ethernet data center switch. The one rack unit S50 supports 48 line-rate 10/100/1000 ports and two optional 10 Gigabit Ethernet uplinks. The S50 features 192 Gbps of switching capacity. Network operators can stack up to eight Force10 S50s to create a single virtual switch, simplifying network management.

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Alcatel Tunes its Core and Edge Routers for Triple Play

Alcatel announced new features on its 7450 Ethernet Service Switch and 7750 Service Router aimed at triple play and business VPN services.


Enhancements to the Alcatel 7450 include scalable, highly efficient multicasting for IPTV distribution and automated per-subscriber security policies. In a telco triple play architecture, the Alcatel 7450 would sit at the edge of a metro network accepting a large number of video feeds from a core IP/MPLS network and then multicasting the most watched channels via Gigabit Ethernet links to DSLAMs or ONTs further out in the field. The Alcatel 7450 has also gained the ability to provide DHCP for triple play services. This DHCP capability automatically allocates IP addresses to multimedia appliances or hosts in network (set-top boxes / VOIP Phones). With this process, Alcatel is also providing automatically configured security filters to protect the network against Denial of Service (DoS) attacks and prevent unauthorized user access in the network.


With triple play services, customers will soon demand high-levels of network availability for their premium TV choices. To meet this challenge, Alcatel offers its non-stop routing technology. Non-stop routing provides a statefull hot-back-up. Should routing problems arise, the system recovers the control plane without routing neighbors ever knowing there was a problem. Using this approach, Alcatel said it is able to ensure that entertainment and VoIP services are for "Always On" and that E911 services are unaffected by network outages.


BT Exact, the research, technology and IT operations business of BT, has tested the high availability features of the 7750 SR. Details of this report are now available from Alcatel.


Other new features on the Alcatel 7750 Service Router enable it to deliver scalable Layer 2 and Layer 3 services, including Virtual Private LAN Service (VPLS), IP VPNs, high-speed Internet, ATM, and Frame Relay. The latest release also delivers new Ethernet, TDM and ATM interfaces.
http://www.alcatel.com

• In October 2004, SBC announced the selection of Alcatel for the delivery of triple play services to 18 million homes in the U.S., as part of its Project Lightspeed.

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Strix Offers Multi-Radio, Multi-Channel, Multi-RF Outdoor Mesh

Strix Systems, a start-up based in Calabasas, California released an outdoor version of its high-capacity multi-radio, multi-channel, and multi-RF mesh networking solution.


Strix's Access/One Network OWS supports up to six radios per node, enabling some dedicated radios to be used backhaul ingress, backhaul egress, and client connectivity. The design can use any combination of 802.11a, b, or g radios. This multi-radio mesh architecture segments the network, ensuring high throughput and low latency over multiple hops. The company said its multi-radio, multi-channel approach enables it to maintain support for real-time applications with only one termination point per 50 nodes on the mesh, whereas other mesh architectures require a termination point for every 5 to 10 nodes. Also, by separating client access from the mesh backbone using different spectrum, the Strix system can dynamically optimize data paths, circumnavigate network congestion and interference, and adjust in real-time to avoid network failure.


The city of Tempe, Arizona is among the municipalities deployed an outdoor mesh network based on Strix Systems. The wireless network will cover the entire city limits of Tempe and will offer services to residents and visitors on an annual, monthly, daily and hourly basis. The network will allow access to multiple Internet service providers (ISP), and is robust enough to provide telephone service via VoIP.


The new Access/One Network OWS 2400 and 3600 model products are available in two NEMA 4X-rated environmentally-hardened enclosures. Strix has previously offered only indoor versions of the system, selling through partners to vertical segments. The company uses Atheros silicon in its systems.
http://www.strixsystems.com

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Huawei-3Com selects Greenfield for High-End Switches

Huawei-3Com selected Greenfield Networks' switching chipset for a new line of high-feature Ethernet switch products. Greenfield's Packetry silicon delivers Layer 2/3/4 packet processing capabilities, including IPv6 routing in hardware and extensive QoS. The Packetry classification and traffic management functions enable VoIP and other converged applications that require flow-based priority and bandwidth distribution across the network. The chipset also supports MPLS switching, stacked VLANs, Layer 2 VPN (martini and VPLS), Layer 3 VPN (RFC 2547bis) and IP tunneling.

http://www.greenfieldnetworks.com

• In September 2004, Greenfield Networks, a start-up based in Sunnyvale, California, raised $21.5 million in third round venture funding for its next gen Ethernet switching silicon. The latest funding round was led by new investor JPMorgan Partners and included existing venture partners Sequoia Capital, Global Catalyst Partners and Walden International. The $21.5 million investment brought total funding in Greenfield to $48 million.



• Greenfield Networks is headed by Gary Smerdon, who previously served as VP of Marketing at Marvell. He joined Marvell through its acquisition of Galileo Technology, another supplier of Ethernet silicon solutions.

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