WilTel Launches Managed CPE Service for Enterprise Customers

WilTel Communications has launched a Managed CPE option as part of its suite of enterprise IP services. WilTel is now providing enterprise customers with a choice between full management or monitoring-only service options. The monitoring service provides customers with fast identification and validation of network events, while the management service provides problem resolution and additional value-added capabilities. Both services feature real-time, web-based reports; inventory and change management capabilities; and best-in-class incident notification times. http://www.wiltel.com

• In May 2004, WilTel Communications, which provides extensive wholesale carrier services, unveiled a strategy for enterprise networking services. New services include Managed Security, which consists of managed firewalls and intrusion detection and Managed Router, which provides pre-configured hardware and software that reduce deployment timeframes on routers. The company also announced the re-launch of several existing products that have been upgraded to serve the Enterprise market, including MPLS IP VPN and Ethernet WAN.

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Intelsat to be Acquired by Private Investors for $5 Billion

A consortium of investment funds will acquire Intelsat in a transaction valued at approximately $5 billion, including approximately $2 billion of existing net debt. Intelsat's current shareholders generally will be entitled to receive $18.75 for each Intelsat share issued and outstanding immediately prior to closing. http://www.intelsat.com

• Intelsat operates a fleet of 28 geostationary satellites serving over 200 countries and territories. The company was established in 1964 as the first commercial satellite provider.

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Intransa Secures $25 Million for IP SANs

Intransa, a start-up based in San Jose, California, secured $25 million in Series D funding for its intelligent IP storage solutions. The company is introducing a new IP SAN appliance, designed specifically for the mid-tier and small business markets. Intransa said its IP SAN products to deliver the scalability of an enterprise-class SAN solution at a dramatically reduced price.



The new funding round was led by Menlo Ventures, and included the participation from current investors Advanced Technology Ventures, Sofinnova Partners, Sofinnova Ventures, U.S. Ventures, as well as investments from several strategic partners. Total funding is now $74 million. http://www.intransa.comIntransa is headed by Dr. Avi Katz, who previously served as President and CEO of Equator Technologies Inc., a privately held video and media system-on-chip fab-less semiconductor manufacturer.

Intransa was founded by Peter Wang, who previously was the Senior Director of the Technology Development Center (TDC) at 3Com Corp.

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Global Crossing Sells its Global Marine Systems

Global Crossing will sell its Global Marine Systems subsidiary and transfer of 49% shareholding in S. B. Submarine Systems Company to Global Marine for $132 million. As a result of these transactions Global Crossing will receive consideration of up to $14.8 million, and Bridgehouse will assume $117 million of Global Marine capital lease debt, which had been carried on Global Crossing's consolidated balance sheet.



Global Crossing said the sales enables it to sharpen its focus on IP services. http://www.globalcrossing.com

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Primus Lingo VoIP Service Adds International Numbers

Primus Telecommunications will begin offering customers of its "Lingo" VoIP service the opportunity to select international telephone numbers from cities in 12 international countries for their broadband phone service. When a U.S. Lingo customer selects a number from an available country for their service, their family, friends, and business associates in that country can call the Lingo customer on that number at the price of an in-country local call.



Initially, the service lets customers choose a local number in any of the following areas,

• Australia -- Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney



• Brazil -- Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro



• France -- Paris



• Guatemala -- Guatemala City



• Hong Kong



• Italy -- Milan, Rome



• Japan -- Tokyo



• Netherlands -- Amsterdam



• Puerto Rico -- Caparra (San Juan)



• South Korea - National, Seoul



• Taiwan -- Taipei



• U.K. - London

http://www.Lingo.com

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Pingtel Sells Desktop Phone Line, Focuses on Open Source Model

As part of its strategic transition to an open source subscription business model, Pingtel Corp. completed the sale of its xpressa desktop phone product line. The buyer was not named and financial details were not disclosed. Pingtel is now a software-only business. The company said this approach enables enterprise customers to select best-of-breed, off-the-shelf phones and components for use with its SIPxchange family of PBX and application routing engines.



Pingtel's enterprise communications suite includes the SIPxchange PBX, including unified messaging, SIPxchange CallManager, providing enterprise level application routing, and SIP softphones. SIPxchange software runs on standard PC server hardware and uses the Linux operating system. http://www.pingtel.com

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TI Unveils DSP for Telecom, Software Radio and Broadcast

Texas Instruments introduced a high-performance DSP tailored for telecom, software radio and terrestrial and satellite broadcasting system applications. The new device features 512 Kbytes of L2 memory, a Viterbi coprocessor (VCP) and an impressive capacity for 2400 16-bit million multiply accumulate cycles (MMACs) per second or 4800 8-bit MMACs per second peak performance. Thehttp://www.ti.com/c6418pr

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Alcatel Adds Security Enhancement to Enterprise Switches

Alcatel enhanced its OmniSwitch line with an extended CrystalSec security framework that enables the platforms to take an active role in preventing and containing security issues facing the enterprise. The company also announced two new relationships with endpoint security leader Sygate and network security leader Fortinet.



Through a combination of Sygate Technologies' Host Integrity Solution and its own OmniSwitch dynamic virtual LAN (VLAN) capability, Alcatel now offers an endpoint security solution that delivers proactive virus and worm attack prevention. The new solution uses Sygate's host integrity, protection, enforcement, and remediation technology, along with 802.1x technology to ensure that devices accessing the network are secured by anti-virus software containing updated virus definitions, a personal firewall, operating system service packs, and patches. Alcatel's dynamic VLANs take this measure one step further by allowing the device to move from a quarantine VLAN to a working VLAN with no user intervention.



Alcatel also introduced a new Automated Quarantine Engine (AQE) that collects information from intrusion detection and prevention systems and dynamically re-configures the network to contain attacks. Upon detection of an attack, the AQE locates the offender and implements a network response. In the case of a virus or worm attack, the AQE will place the infected device into an Alcatel quarantine VLAN that is applied to the edge of the network. Using Alcatel's mobile VLAN technology, the infected device will be blacklisted--even if the infected intruder moves to another location.



In addition, Alcatel will offer a wide range of Fortinet's security products, including its flagship ASIC-powered FortiGate Antivirus Firewalls. http://www.alcatel.com

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Eight Illinois Telcos Tune in to Tut's Digital TV

Western Illinois Video (WIV) is in the process of deploying digital TV service over the broadband networks of its eight member companies using Tut System's Astria content processor (CP). Tut Systems provided the staging, system integration and on-site installation of its Astria digital headend solution, with ancillary satellite and off-air video receivers, to enable WIV to deliver digital TV over DSL and HFC networks. The first commercial rollouts are anticipated by the end of Q3. Financial terms were not disclosed.



The initial digital entertainment package being offered to WIV members consists of 125 channels of broadcast, premium and pay-per-view TV and 45 channels of commercial-free music. WIV anticipates adding additional on-demand and interactive services over time. The cooperative's eight members represent more than 10,000 residential subscribers in Western Illinois. http://www.tutsystems.com

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Global IP Sound Specified as Mandatory Codec for Voice-over-Cable

CableLabs has specified voice quality technology from Global IP Sound as a mandatory codec in its recently released PacketCable 1.1 Audio/Video Codec Specification for multimedia terminal adapters (MTAs) and media gateways.



Global IP Sound's iLBC (internet Low-Bitrate Codec) is a 13.3 kb/s and 15.2 kb/s codec that will enable equipment manufacturers to satisfy the PacketCable requirement for toll-grade or superior voice quality in Voice-over-Cable systems. Additional PacketCable 1.1 requirements include support for both 20ms and 30ms frame size modes and multi-vendor support.



In addition, GIPS iLBC is already in the final stages of a standardization process as part of the IETF Audio Visual Transport (avt) Working Group.



Texas Instruments has been collaborating with Global IP Sound for more than a year on the implementation of iLBC onto TI DSPs. The companies have recently completed successful interoperability testing in preparation for market launch. http://www.globalipsound.com

• Earlier this month, Broadcom announced that CableLabs had chosen its BroadVoice16 voice compression codec as one of two royalty-free voice codecs for all future PacketCable 1.1 and 1.0 certified and qualified embedded multimedia terminal adapters (EMTAs) and PSTN media gateways beginning in April of 2005, pending successful conclusion of certain conditions such as demonstration of multi-vendor interoperability.

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HP and Motorola Team on Standards-based Network Platforms

Motorola signed a multi-year agreement to integrate HP technologies into its CDMA and iDEN network infrastructure products. Specifically, HP will deliver and support a hardware and software platform that will help manage key functions in the central call path of the network. HP will be supplying three key elements:

• the HP cx2600 64-bit rack-mount server, a carrier-grade version NEBS Level 3 Certified) of HP's commercial rx2600 server, a part of the HP Integrity server family which utilizes Intel Itanium processors. The common platform for both telephony and IT networks will give Motorola added flexibility;



• the Linux operating system, with carrier-grade features in line with OSDL specifications and hardened to meet telecom standards; and



• the HP OpenCall Radio Signaling Controller solution, a version of HP's implementation of the Signaling System 7 industry standard that handles all call signaling and connection in the core network.

Motorola will integrate its own high-availability middleware and application software with elements of the HP platform to create the core infrastructure for its iDEN network, which will utilize the HP Integrity cx2600 server running Linux, and the Motorola CDMA radio access network, which will utilize all three elements of the HP platform. http://www.motorola.comhttp://www.hp.com

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CableLabs Announces Four PacketCable Certifications

CableLabs has awarded PacketCable certification status to Ambit, Cisco-Linksys, and Scientific-Atlanta for their respective multimedia terminal adapters (E-MTA).



The E-MTA is a consumer premises device in the PacketCable network architecture, and serves as a key element originating and terminating IP calls. Built on top of the DOCSIS 1.1 infrastructure, PacketCable networks use IP as the basis for its multimedia architecture.



In addition, CableLabs has awarded CableHome 1.1 certified status to two devices, one each from D-Link and Thomson Consumer Electronics. CableHome is a CableLabs-managed initiative that, coupled with cable broadband service, allows for the distribution of broadband service throughout a consumer's home. The initiative offers the consumer a secure and managed residential gateway that can be connected to the cable network in a plug-and-play fashion.http;//www.cablelabs.com

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Wyoming ILEC to Launch VoIP with MetaSwitch

Wyoming's TCT West, a division of Tri County Telephone, will introduce VoIP services using MetaSwitch's VP3500 Series Class 5 Softswitch platform. The move follows the company's decision to deploy MetaSwitch to serve its existing 8,000 subscribers. TCT West will initially be deploying services including IP Centrex, both to meet customer demand in-region and to expand into other markets. The carrier also plans to take advantage of the increasing availability of SIP interfaces from incumbent and alternative interexchange carriers (IXCs) to reduce long distance trunking costs, as well as leveraging the flexibility of SIP-based application servers. In addition to significant cost savings, TCT West expects the adoption of VoIP to double its subscriber base to 16,000 over the next few years. Financial terms were not disclosed. http://www.metaswitch.comhttp://www.tctwest.net

• Metaswitch's VP3500's provides built-in support for CALEA and delivers more than 100 features, including residential and business group services, over both circuit and packet-based networks. In addition, MetaSwitch's media gateway design combines TDM and packet processing onto a single card, scaling from a few hundred to hundreds of thousands of subscribers.

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Canada Commences Criminal Investigation into Nortel's Accounting

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police will commence a criminal investigation into Nortel Networks' financial accounting. These matters have been the subject of an ongoing review by the RCMP. Nortel Networks said it would continue to cooperate with investigators. http://www.nortelnetworks.com

• In May 2004, Nortel Networks received a Federal Grand Jury Subpoena for the production of certain documents, including financial statements and corporate, personnel and accounting records, that were produced from January 2000 to date.



• In April 2004, Nortel Networks named William Owens as its new president and CEO, replacing Frank Dunn, who was dismissed "for cause." Nortel Networks also fired its former chief financial officer, Douglas Beatty, and former controller, Michael Gollogly, both of whom had been placed on paid leave of absence by Nortel Networks on 15-March-2004. Four other individuals who were senior line of business finance executives were also placed on leave of absence.

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Germany Opens Consultation on Local Loop Access

Germany's Regulatory Authority for Telecommunications and Post (RegTP) has opened a national consultation and debate on draft proposals on the local loop access market.



Access to the local loop is one of eighteen relevant markets the national regulatory authorities (NRAs) have been recommended by the European Commission to look at. In its draft RegTP concludes that the German market, defined in line with national circumstances, requires regulation and that Deutsche Telekom AG (DTAG) has significant market power in this market. All interested parties are being given the opportunity to make their views known. Following this, RegTP will consider what obligations to impose, amend, maintain or withdraw in relation to DTAG (by a direction). http://www.regtp.de

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FCC Takes Measures to Reform E-Rate Program

Following an audit of the schools and libraries support mechanism (also known as the "E-rate" program), the FCC adopted a number of measures aimed at reducing waste, fraud and abuse of the program. The schools and libraries program enables qualified applicants to receive discounts on eligible telecommunications services, Internet access, and internal connections. Since the program's inception in 1997, schools and libraries across the United States have received over $11 billion in funding commitments and, as a result, 99% of public schools and 92% of public school classrooms are connected to the Internet.



The reforms set forth a framework regarding what amounts should be recovered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) and the FCC when funds have been disbursed in violation of specific statutory provisions and Commission rules; sets forth plans for future audits; requires applicants to develop a technology plan consistent with the U.S. Department of Education; strengthens certification requirements; and establishes other administrative procedures. http://www/fcc.gov

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Russia's SMARTS Selects Alcatel for EDGE mobile network

SMARTS, a leading regional mobile operator in Russia, selected Alcatel for the deployment of an EDGE network throughout the city of Samara, a city with over one million inhabitants. Under the contract, Alcatel will EDGE-enable the Evolium 900 and 1800 MHz base stations already installed in the operator's network using the multi-standard GSM/EDGE/WCDMA capability of its industry leading Evolium solution. http://www.alcatel.com

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MCI Provides MPLS VPN service for CODA

MCI is providing a fully-managed international Private IP solution to CODA, the financial systems specialist. The network-based, MPLS VPN service provides any-to-any connectivity between CODA's international sites. Because CODA chose a fully-managed solution, MCI also handled the hardware implementation, integration and the ongoing maintenance of their network from the router and beyond. MCI Private IP is a certified Cisco Powered Network service. Financial terms were not disclosed. http://www.mci.com

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Swisscom Reaches 656,000 ADSL Subscribers

As of 30-June-2004, Swisscom was serving 656,000 ADSL access lines, more than double the 317,000 ADSL subscribers it was serving a year earlier. Of the total, 389,000 are for Bluewin retail customers and 267,000 for other providers' customers.



Overall, Swisscom posted a 0.4% increase in revenue (excluding debitel) to CHF 5 billion for the first half of 2004. Operating income before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) fell by 5.6% year-on-year to CHF 2.25 billion.



Swisscom's Mobile segment posted a year-on-year increase of 4.9% in revenue from external customers to CHF 1,805 million. The 3.7% growth in revenue from connectivity voice is mainly attributable to expansion of the customer base, which more than offset the loss in revenue from national roaming following termination of the agreement between Swisscom Mobile and another mobile provider in mid-2003. The number of Mobile customers rose year-on-year by 223,000 to 3.898 million, primarily due to the successful rollout of Vodafone live!. The average minutes per user per month (AMPU) dropped from 121 to 118 minutes compared with the previous year. By contrast, the average revenue per user (ARPU) was on a par with the previous year's level. Revenue from connectivity data and value added services rose by 12.9%, largely due to an increased customer base and the direct billing of SMS traffic with other network providers. Other revenue increased by 14.5%, mainly due to higher terminal equipment sales. http://www.swisscom.com

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Sprint PCS Launches Nationwide Streaming Video and Audio

Sprint announced the nationwide launch of a wireless service that offers streaming video and audio content. The Sprint PCS Vision Multimedia Phone MM-A700 by Samsung will be the first CDMA device in the United States to deliver streaming audio and video content from familiar sources such as CNN, NBC, FOX Sports, The Weather Channel, E! Entertainment, mFlix, Twentieth Century Fox, AccuWeather and 1KTV.



Sprint said users will be able to access more than 600 new streaming video and audio clips every day, covering the latest news, weather, sports and entertainment.



The Samsung MM-A700 phone by Samsung enables customers to listen and view audio/video clips on-demand in real time directly from the phone's 262K TFT full-color screen. The content, decompressed and played on the embedded media player, is directly streamed to the handset from the CDMA1X Sprint PCS Vision network at 15 frames per second (fps). The phone also features a megapixel camera and digital camcorder, and Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) quality.



Initially, Sprint will offer 10 channels to choose from for accessing audio and video content. Content can be accessed in two primary categories:

1) My Channels: a 'basic cable' type package consisting of:

• Ch. 1 = Sprint TV, which is a compilation of content from NBC, FOX Sports, The Weather Channel and more. The content and technology for Sprint TV are being delivered by MobiTV.
  
• Ch. 20 = Twentieth Century Fox, that offers free movie trailers;
  
• Ch. 49 = The Preview Channel, which offers free previews of all
  channels; and
  
• Ch. 24 = Athens on Location - free summer games highlights from NBC
  through Aug. 29.

2) Premium Channels: this is a more in-depth service that provides more content more frequently as determined by the channel content providers. The additional premium services channels available at launch are:

• Ch. 2 = CNNtoGO - $4.95/month


• Ch. 3 = FOX Sports - $4.95/month


• Ch. 4 = The Weather Channel - $4.95/month


• Ch. 5 = 1KTV - $4.95/month


• Ch. 7 = mFlix - $4.95/month


• Ch. 8 = E! Entertainment - $4.95/month


• Ch. 14 = AccuWeather - $3.95/month

http://www.sprint.com

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