TeliaSonera IC Deploys 100G+ with NSN

TeliaSonera International Carrier has deployed a new 100G overlay network across Europe.

Specifically, the carrier has deployed a new 100G DWDM network based on Nokia Siemens Networks' hiT7300 platform that is operating with coherent CP-QPSK technology. The CP-QPSK modulation format is also used for TeliaSonera’s existing network to improve performance. Nokia Siemens Networks also provides a full set of care services including software maintenance, help desk as well as spare part management services. Financial terms were not disclosed.

“The new overlay network with our latest technology is fully integrated with Juniper routers to offer a seamless service portfolio to TeliaSonera’s subscribers. It will initially have 40 and 100GE (gigabit Ethernet) capacity with the potential to be upgraded to 400G and beyond,” stated Mikko Lavanti, head of optical networks customer sales and support at Nokia Siemens Networks.

“The increased adoption of bandwidth-hungry applications requires capacity upgrades,” said Mattias Fridström, vice president, head of technology, TeliaSonera International Carrier. “We share a long-standing relationship with Nokia Siemens Networks and are very satisfied with its installed base in 10G and 40G wavelengths across the European segment of our global network. Its leading technology for high capacity networks is exactly what we required for this major transition in our network." http://www.nsn.com http://www.teliasoneraic.com 

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PureWave Selects Tail-f for Small Cell LTE

PureWave Networks has selected Tail-f Systems' ConfD software to build the on-device management system for its Constellation family of LTE small cell base stations.

ConfD auto-renders all critical northbound interfaces (CLI, Web UI, NETCONF, SNMP and a RESTFul API) from a single data model. It includes an embedded database, transaction management, and support for high-availability deployments.

PureWave’s Constellation small cell LTE base stations promise peak data rates of up to 1Gbps of LTE capacity and offer an array of advanced options, including multi-channel and multi-frequency support, advanced SON and traffic shaping. http://www.pwnets.com http://www.tail-f.com 31-Jul-12

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Procera Tracks Streaming from London 2012

After a slow start, streaming of Olympic events picked up on Sunday, according to Procera Networks. 


The company cited significant spikes in streaming traffic in the U.S. and the UK that is tied to Olympic events. The company notes that the iPhone 4 reigns as the king of usage, significantly ahead of Android competitors in amount of streaming traffic consumed. http://blog.proceranetworks.com/ 
31-Jul-12

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National LambdaRail & CENIC on Healthcare

National LambdaRail (NLR) and the Corporation for Education Network Initiatives in California (CENIC) announced that they will partner in the delivery of ultra-high bandwidth services to healthcare organizations in California and Arizona.

Last week, NLR announced a partnership with AT&T on communication services for healthcare organizations, first in California and ultimately across the United States. The addition of CENIC to the partnership creates very comprehensive connectivity within the California and Arizona healthcare community.

"This is another vital step towards an integrated health information infrastructure for the United States,” said NLR Chairman and CEO Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong. “These key partnerships for high volume, high speed data services to all medical institutions, put us well on the way towards making genomically-informed, evidence-based medical care a reality. Whole genome sequencing data can be deployed quickly to the service of clinical decision making at the point of care." http://www.nlr.net 31-Jul-12

• Earlier this year, National LambdaRail transferred its Network Operations Center (NOC) to the Corporation for Education Network Initiatives in California (CENIC). In addition to optical layer services, CENIC will now be responsible for switch, router and engineering support desk NOC services and, in a recently expanded agreement, CENIC will deliver network design engineering capabilities for NLR.

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IEEE 802.11 Adds QoS for Audio/Video Streaming, Prioritized Mgt Frames

The IEEE announced two significant improvements to 802.11 standards.

IEEE 802.11aa-20121 supports more robust audio and video streaming for IEEE 802.11 applications. The new spec adds several QoS features, including group-addressed transmission service, stream classification service, management of overlapping networks and support for the IEEE 802.1Q Stream Reservation Protocol. The IEEE said these enhancements for the 802.11 MAC (Medium Access Control) layer are intended to deliver a host of benefits, including improved management of audio/video stream quality, link reliability and application performance in instances such as when channel capacity is insufficient or when WLANs overlap on the same radio channel. IEEE 802.11aa is available for purchase at the IEEE Standards Store.

IEEE 802.11ae-20122 improves network performance by prioritizing management frames sent on an IEEE 802.11 wireless link. This new spec defines a mechanism for prioritizing management frames and a protocol for communicating prioritization policy. IEEE 802.11ae enables a more sophisticated prioritization capability that balances the need to move both network management information and data traffic and yields improved performance of IEEE 802.11 networks and the applications that use them. IEEE 802.11ae is available for purchase at the IEEE Standards Store. http://standards.ieee.org 31-Jul-12

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Australia's Optus Picks NSN for 4G Modernization

Optus, one of the leading mobile operators in Australia, has selected Nokia Siemens Networks as a partner for its key network modernization, including refarming the 900 MHz GSM frequency band, and providing infrastructure and services for LTE in Sydney and Perth. In addition, as part of this agreement, Nokia Siemens Networks is the sole LTE core provider for Optus. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Nokia Siemens Networks is providing its Single RAN platform, based on its compact, energy-efficient Flexi Multiradio Base Station. The company is also providing its Evolved Packet Core platform including Flexi NS (Network Server) and Flexi NG (Network Gateway). Optus’ LTE, GSM and 3G networks will be monitored, managed and optimized by Nokia Siemens Networks’ unified network management system, NetAct.

In addition to Optus’ in-house services capability, Nokia Siemens Networks will provide Optus with a range of services, including network implementation, spectrum refarming, radio planning, optimization, project management, and care including spare part management, software maintenance, third-party software support and training.

"Spectrum is a scarce resource, so operators are seeking ways to make the best use of it. With this deal, Optus will re-use its existing spectrum to modernize its radio network and also offer 4G services cost-efficiently in one of the largest spectrum migration programs globally,” said Stephen McFeeley, head of Australia and New Zealand at Nokia Siemens Networks. “Our mobile broadband offering, based on the Liquid Core and Liquid Radio architectures, will assist Optus in managing the dynamic capacity and technology demands in one of the most advanced mobile broadband markets."

"Our major mobile network initiatives, including network enhancements, U900 MHz spectrum migration program and 4G services rollout aim to provide the best possible experience for our customers,” added Günther Ottendorfer, Managing Director, Networks at Optus. "Nokia Siemens Networks is a key network partner in supporting these initiatives." http://www.nokiasiemensnetworks.com 31-Jul-12

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IBM Introduces Next Gen Intrusion Protection Appliance

IBM introduced a network security appliance that delivers a more granular view of a company's security posture and a simplified security management interface.

The IBM Security Network Protection XGS 5000 is described as a next-generation intrusion protection system designed to defend against evolving security threats, including those posed by social media sites and malicious websites. It builds on the core security features found in IBM Security Network Intrusion Prevention System, including helping protect against "zero-day" exploits, by adding new levels of visibility and control over the network, applications, data and users to help improve security by helping prevent misuse and identify previously undetectable threats.

IBM is also incorporating global threat intelligence from X-Force, including a Web filter database of over 15 billion URLs – capable of monitoring and categorizing millions of Web servers and applications each day to provide protection against the changing threat landscape.

The appliance allows customers to:

• Discover which applications and Web sites are being accessed
• Identify misuse by application, Website, and user
• Enforce security policies with granular, intelligent application-level controls.

This visibility is increased via integration with IBM's Advanced Threat Protection Platform, which utilizes anomaly detection and event correlation capabilities to better address more complex attacks such as Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs). 

"The escalation of targeted attacks and rapid adoption of mobility, cloud and social media requires companies to take a new approach to securing the enterprise," said Brendan Hannigan, General Manager, IBM Security Systems Division. 
http://www.ibm.com/security 

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Telecom Argentina Posts Steady Growth

As of the end of June 2012, Telecom Argentina had 20,965,000 mobile customers, up 8% YoY, including roughly 18.7 million in Argentina and 2.2 million in Paraguay (including WiMAX). The overall subscriber base mix continued to improve with 32% being postpaid (+14% vs. 1H11). The company had 1,594,000 broadband access lines, up 9% over a year earlier.

Telecom Argentina reported a Net Income of P$1,294 million for the six months period ended June 30, 2012, or +1% when compared to the same period last year. Net income attributable to Telecom Argentina amounted to P$1,275 million (+1% vs. 1H11).

During 1H12, consolidated Revenues increased by 21% to P$10,380 million (+P$1,796 million vs. 1H11), mainly fueled by the Mobile Services, Broadband business and Fixed Data. Moreover, Operating Profit amounted P$1,882 million (-P$47 million vs. 1H11).

During 1H12, the overall traffic of voice minutes increased by 8% vs. 1H11. SMS traffic (incoming and outgoing charged messages) continued to increase, although at a slower pace of growth, due to other Internet alternatives provided by Personal. The traffic climbed to a monthly average of 5,401 million in 1H12 from 5,291 million messages in 1H11 (+2% vs. 1H11). Due to this increase in traffic and VAS usage, Average Monthly Revenue per User ("ARPU") increased to P$54,6 during 1H12 (+13% vs. 1H11).

In 1H12 Telecom Argentina launched cloud computing services for corporate ICT allowing virtual access to data center resources. http://www.telecom.com.ar/ 

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isco, EMC and VMware Deliver Virtualized Data Center for Brisbane Airport

Brisbane Airport, which handles more than 21 million passengers each year, has implemented a virtualized data center using technology from Cisco, EMC and VMware.

The private cloud is built on the Cisco Unified Computing System (Cisco UCS), Cisco Nexus® switches, EMC VNX storage system and VMware vSphere server virtualization software.

By centralizing and virtualizing different projects and applications to create virtual network resources, the airport expects to reduce its energy consumption and cooling costs by approximately 20 percent. So far, approximately 80 percent of its environment has been reduced which is estimated to reflect the removal of 70 physical servers from operation. http://www.cisco.com http://www.vmware.com 31-Jul-12

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HomeGrid Forum Describes G.hn Interference Mitigation Techniques

The HomeGrid Forum published a whitepaper describing G.hn Interference Mitigation Techniques from neighboring PLC (Power Line Communications) networks in high-density environments such as Multiple Dwelling Unit (MDU) buildings. Such interference causes significant quality issues including IPTV freezing or failure, VOIP call interruptions, loss of data or even complete loss of network connectivity.

G.hn’s Neighboring Domain Interference Mitigation (NDIM) technology automatically mitigates interference between G.hn PLC networks using a range of measures, enabling near 100% network capacity for each network regardless of the number of nearby G.hn networks.

The White Paper, entitled: “PLC Neighboring Networks – How G.hn solves PLC’s Neighboring Networks Problem,” - explains the problems of both low and high level interference in neighboring networks, particularly in MDU environments where many PLC networks are installed nearby.

The whitepaper is posted online. http://www.homegridforum.org 

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Level 3 Extends Voice Services to Alaska and Hawaii

Level 3 Communications has expanded its voice service portfolio to Alaska and Hawaii. This brings Level 3's U.S. coverage to all 50 states. Level 3 currently offers local telephone number coverage to 87 percent of the U.S. population, more than any other domestic carrier. http://www.level3.com 31-Jul-12

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NTT DOCOMO's Smartphone for Beginners - Raku-Raku

NTT DOCOMO introduced the Raku-Raku SMART PHONE, the first smartphone designed for users who are new to touchscreen operations.

The Raku-Raku offers a 4-inch display with a simplified menu and large fonts for increased clarity and ease of use. The touch screen mimics the impression of a conventional phone key, allowing users to first confirm where their finger is touching by highlighting the contact point and then requiring them to press more strongly to actually select the menu button or icon. The device confirms the selection with a slight vibration and click. The menu has three large, easy-to-understand buttons for phone, email and phonebook-and also includes three programmable one-touch speed dial buttons.
http://www.nttdocomo.com/pr/2012/001604.html

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Corning's Telecom Sales Rose 10% Sequentially in Q2

Last week, Corning reported its telecommunications segment sales were $559 million, a 10% sequential and 2% year-over-year increase. The sequential gain was driven by stronger optical fiber and cable products and enterprise network solutions sales. North America and China were the most robust geographies for Corning’s Telecommunications segment.

Looking forward, Corning said that it expects telecommunications segment sales to be consistent with the previous quarter and consistent with normal seasonal trends. Corning expects sales of optical fiber and cable in China to remain strong.
http://www.corning.com

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Analog Devices Intros Programmable Dual Clock for OTN

Analog Devices introduced a fully-programmable, jitter-attenuating, dual-clock translator IC for optical transport network (OTN) applications and high-density line cards. The AD9559 quad-input multiservice line card adaptive clock translator simultaneously supports different standard frequencies for wired communications applications, including synchronous Ethernet, SONET/SDH, 1/10/100G Ethernet, Fiber Channel, and other applications that require low jitter, flexibility and fast time-to-market.

The AD9559 translator IC synchronously converts any standard input frequency to any standard output frequency at up to 1.25 GHz with sub-400-fs RMS (root mean square) total jitter over a 12-kHz to 20-MHz integration bandwidth. The AD9559 replaces two synchronous timing devices with a single IC, helping designers with board space constraints and cost optimization.
http://www.analog.com

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Rostelecom Acquires Sky Link to Expand its Spectrum

Rostelecom, Russia’s national telecommunications operator, has acquired Sky Link CJSC, which currently owns licences in 76 Russian regions. The licenses cover over 90% of the total Russian population, which includes Moscow, St. Petersburg and several other major Russian cities. Sky Link’s licences enable the Company to provide services using CDMA-450 and UMTS-1900/2100 technologies in 65 regions, CDMA-450/2000 in 3 regions, GSM-1800 in 45 regions and GSM-900 in one region.


Alexander Provotorov, President of Rostelecom, commented: "The strategic acquisition of Sky Link enables us to strengthen our competitive position and increase the value of our Company. This was the last asset available in the market that could offer such extensive network coverage and unique frequencies. Sky Link is also the fourth operator to have obtained the remaining 3G frequencies in Russia. In addition, the consolidation of Sky Link’s assets marks an important landmark in our complex reorganisation process, which merges Svyazinvest with Rostelecom. The aim of this process is to eliminate any cross-ownership between the two companies, to simplify our shareholder structure and help attract interest from a broader range of investors."
http://www.rostelecom.ru

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UTStarcom to Divest IPTV Business

UTStarcom will divest its IPTV business into a privately-held, standalone company. Jack Lu will leave UTStarcom to lead the IPTV equipment business. In addition, UTStarcom will seek to accelerate the growth of its media operational support services business. http://www.utstar.com

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AuthenTec for Fingerprint Sensors

Apple agreed to acquire AuthenTec, a specialist in mobile biometrics, for approximately $355 million.


AuthenTec provides smart fingerprint sensors and modules. The company also offers a comprehensive embedded security portfolio that includes IP security (IPsec) and SSL toolkits, DRM content protection, semiconductor IP and security processors.


AuthenTec claims nearly 200 foundational technology patents related to fingerprint biometrics covering fingerprint sensors and sensor packaging, software and end use. Top tier customers include Alcatel-Lucent, Cisco, Fujitsu, HBO, HP, Lenovo, LG, Motorola, Nokia, Orange, Samsung, Sky, and Texas Instruments. AuthenTec is based in Melbourne, Florida.
http://www.apple.com
http://www.authentec.com/

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Vodafone Egypt Picks Ericsson for Radio Upgrade

Vodafone Egypt has selected the Ericsson RBS 6000 base station for an upgrade of its radio access network. Financial terms were not disclosed.
http://www.ericsson.com

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Vodafone Spain Offers "joyn" Rich Communications to Competitors

Vodafone Spain has been offering a whole Rich Communication Suite to other operators in order to better compete with OTT providers. The umbrella name for the brand is joyn and the deployment in Spain is the world’s first joyn network. It offers users a combination of IM chat, video and file sharing services that are native on new smartphones or available as a downloadable client for those already in the market.


Vodafone Spain worked with Ericsson to develop the Rich Communication Suite evolved (RCSe) platform that joyn is based on. Ericsson supplied hardware, software and services, including Ericsson’s Messaging in One product which was adapted to meet the GSMA specification and then implemented as the joyn platform.


Vodafone said the ability to provide feature-rich services will bring users back to the network and in time will enable new revenue-generating services. The carrier noted interest in joyn from aroung the world, including New Zealand, India, China, the US, Canada, Turkey and Korea.
http://www.ericsson.com

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AT&T Looks to Repurchase More Shares

AT&T's Board of Directors has authorized the repurchase of up to 300 million additional shares, representing approximately 5 percent of AT&T shares outstanding, with no expiration date. This authorization is in addition to the 300 million share repurchase authorization approved by the Board of Directors in December 2010.


"This action allows us to continue returning cash to our shareholders through dividends and buybacks while maintaining a strong balance sheet and investing in the future of our business," said Randall Stephenson, AT&T chairman and chief executive officer.


Under the December 2010 authorization, AT&T had repurchased 143.5 million of its shares for about
$4.6 billion through June 30, 2012. Including dividends, the company returned nearly $10 billion to shareholders in the first half of 2012.
http://www.att.com

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