News Briefs

Riverstone Networks has introduced a new hardware module, upgraded MPLS routers and a software release all aimed at helping service providers deploy multiple services over a common Ethernet infrastructure. The new products include the RS 1100, 3100 and 3200 routers; the Advanced Services Module (ASM); and RapidOS software release 9.4. The new platforms deliver “granular” quality of service with rate limiting and shaping. Supporting a wide variety of interfaces including ATM, packet over SONET/SDH and TDM, the RS 1100, 3100 and 3200 allow for a migration from existing networks to advanced Ethernet services based on MPLS/VPLS. The RS 1100 and 3100 are targeted at Ethernet-over-copper deployments with standard 10/100BaseT interfaces, while the RS 3200 is targeted at Ethernet-over-fiber deployments with SFP interfaces for 100BaseFX or 100BaseBX. The ASM for the RS line of routers provides precise bandwidth control, allowing Ethernet to emulate the service capabilities of frame relay and ATM. RapidOS 9.4 draws on Riverstone’s experience with Ethernet and MPLS deployments around the world to deliver more revenue-generating services for service providers, greater security and operational advantages for those running the network, the vendor says.

PRIMUS Taps VocalData

PRIMUS Telecommunications Canada Inc. is using the VocalData application server — a set of hosted PBX and IP Centrex applications — to power its TalkBroadband service throughout Canada. The hosted IP telephony service was officially launched in early January 2004. With the launch of its TalkBroadband service, a bundled offering that combines voice, data, Internet and Web hosting, PRIMUS is the first company to provide residential VoIP services throughout Canada, according to the service provider, which says users of the service will realize a 15 percent to 30 percent reduction in the cost of their communications services.

Zhone Flies New Raptor

Zhone Technologies Inc. has introduced a new line-powered DSLAM called the Raptor 100 LP. The compact Raptor 100 LP provides next-generation DSLAM features, with support for central office, remote terminal and non-powered wiring cabinet deployments. It can allow service delivery as far as 38,000 feet from a central office using power supplied over the uplink’s twisted pair.

MCI Delivers Broadband Satellite

MCI is providing CSX Technology Inc., the technology subsidiary of CSX Corp., owner of the largest rail network in the eastern United States, satellite services at railroad remote operating locations across the eastern United States. In addition, MCI says it is expanding its broadband access services to include new broadband satellite service options with higher bandwidth capabilities and international coverage. Tachyon Networks Inc. is providing the satellite technology.

eXpeTel Chooses Taqua

eXpeTel Communications has chosen Taqua’s iX7000 next-generation Class 5 packet switch as its facilities-based switching system to be used for converged voice and data services with its growing customer base in Mississippi as well as expansion into new markets.

VoP Numbers

Ericsson is the leader in voice-over-packet (VoP) port shipments, with more than 21 percent of cumulative VoP shipped as of the fourth quarter of 2003, according to Dittberner Associates Inc. Nortel Networks is in second place with 17.1 percent of cumulative VoP ports shipped, followed by Sonus Networks in third place, with 10.6 percent of the total. “The majority of Ericsson’s 21.3 percent market share derives from the shipment of its AXD 301 media gateway to British Telecom, who has installed more than 9 million ports as Class 4 replacement gear,” explains Grace Terada de Tomé, senior analyst and editor at DAI. She further states “three major customers make up almost 50 percent of Nortel’s market share: U.S. long-distance providers Sprint, MCI and Verizon. Cisco and Italtel are the main suppliers to Telecom Italia’s Class 4 replacement project.”

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