Enterprise Telephony News
Digium Unveils AsteriskNOW Software Appliance
Digium, Inc. announces AsteriskNOW, the company’s first software appliance. AsteriskNOW is the open source distribution of Asterisk with a Digium-designed graphical user interface (GUI) and new setup wizard for easy installation and configuration in less than 30 minutes - previous Linux or Asterisk experience is not necessary, according to the company. “It is Digium's objective to continue to roll out appliances which reduce the complexity of installing and using Asterisk and expand the market for Digium into more mainstream use. Digium intends to be the leader in delivering software appliances and hardware appliances,” states Bill Miller, VP Product Management and Marketing at Digium.
Simple installation and configuration are of high importance to customers. Past implementations of the Asterisk solution require the customer to have some knowledge of Linux and of telephone system configuration. Now, the newly-announced AsteriskNOW software appliance includes the Asterisk software, all the Linux components necessary to run, debug and build Asterisk and the Asterisk GUI, making Asterisk easier to install and maintain in the office or home. Customers can use the flexible GUI to navigate through a simple setup wizard and perform moves, adds and changes, and customers will benefit from default dial plans and easy configurations.
Digium took a first step in easing Asterisk implementation by introducing an all-in-one Asterisk Appliance Developer Kit in September 2006, a preamble to the Digium Asterisk Appliance which will be launched in early 2007 as Digium’s “official entry” into the Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) market. The new Developer Kit provides ITSPs, OEMs, resellers and integrators with a complete set of components needed to build a turn-key telephony platform for a smaller business or remote office (2-50 users). The Asterisk Appliance Developer Kit ($3,995) includes a pilot version of the Asterisk Appliance (a hardware appliance officially planned for release in early 2007), the Asterisk GUI framework, two FXS and two FXO cards (4 ports each), multi-media memory card, 8MB Flash, cables, an IP phone, software on CD, documentation and manuals, 2-day training and Digium direct engineering support.
SpectraLink Announces New NetLink 8000 Series
SpectraLink Corp. announces the new NetLink 8000 Series Wireless Telephones, the company’s next-generation Wi-Fi telephony handsets. The new handsets support the IEEE 802.11a, b and g radio standards, giving businesses a choice in Wi-Fi implementation. Two models are offered: the basic NetLink 8020 Wireless Telephone and the NetLink 8030 Wireless Telephone with SpectraLink’s push-to-talk (PTT) technology for 24 PTT channels and a unique “priority” channel for emergency broadcasts.
 Notable features include four-way navigation for selecting menu options, four softkeys for feature access, an integrated speakerphone, interchangeable battery packs (for 4-, 6- or 8-hour talk time) and SpectraLink’s Open Application Interface (OAI) for integration of two-way text messaging, alarm systems, nurse call systems and other applications. The new handsets join an existing family of NetLink handsets (e340, h340 and i640) that support the widely deployed 802.11b radio mode.
The NetLink 8000 Series Wireless Telephones will ship in first quarter 2007. List prices are $595 (NetLink 8020) and $675 (NetLink 8030 with PTT).
SpectraLink handsets feature SpectraLink’s Voice Priority (SVP) technology that reduces packet queuing delays for voice traffic; the handsets also support industry standard security protocols (WEP, WPA and WPA2). The NetLink 2.4 GHz voice-over-wireless LAN solution works with WLAN vendors that provide the design and layout of Access Points on the customer premises. NetLink is proven interoperable with third-party "VIEW Certified" Access Points from 3Com, Aruba, BelAir Networks, Cisco, Colubris Networks, Extreme, Meru, Nortel, Siemens, Symbol and Trapeze. VIEW Certified Access Points have undergone rigorous testing to ensure interoperability and high performance. SpectraLink has also successfully deployed NetLink WTS at customer sites with Wireless LAN products from Avaya, Cisco, Enterasys, HP, Intermec, LXE, Meru, Proxim and Symbol. Moving forward, all Access Points will need to re-certify the NetLink 8000 Series handsets through the VIEW program in the IEEE 802.11a and g bands (11b remains certified).
Teltronics Introduces New 20-20 Software and SIP-based Unified Messaging
Teltronics announces the latest release of 20-20 software and a SIP-based unified messaging solution for its 20-20 IXP telephony system for larger businesses (to 9,000+ stations). The 20-20 IXP can function as a traditional Key, PBX or Hybrid system, but can also be IP-enabled for more advanced functionality and offers a wide complement of features and extensive data capabilities, including a specialized package for high security and high risk applications needed by correctional institutions and jails. Version 3.6 features include improvements to the SS7 network capabilities, 64 system announcements and 64 music-on-hold sources, Caller ID over analog trunks and Caller ID display on CIP2 Button Expansion Keys, Special Security Application (SSA) enhancements and new IPEC alarms to report failures and status of Music or Announcement sources.
The company also announces SIP integration to Esnatech’s Telephony Office-LinX unified messaging platform (analog and digital integration is still offered). SIP reduces hardware costs, while adding high availability and resiliency and flexible remote site deployments. Expensive voice cards and PBX interface cards are not needed, and with SIP, the Telephony Office-LinX solution can be deployed anywhere on the local or wide area network and communicate with both the voice and data network, saving costs in multiple servers and interface hardware. Two current Esnatech platforms are available to access and manage voice mail, e-mail and fax messages from any SMTP, POP3, or MAPI compliant mail package, or via the Web: (1) Telephony Office-LinX Small Business Edition, a full-featured unified communications solution for smaller businesses (100 voice users and 25 UM licenses) or (2) Telephony Office-LinX (TOL) Enterprise Edition (20,000 voice users and 50 UM licenses), an advanced unified messaging platform with presence management and mobility. Both options support a 2-port, 250-name Speech Recognition technology for speech-enabled dialing and directory access (standard on the Enterprise Edition and optional on the Small Business Edition); customers can upgrade to 500 or 500+ name directories.
Toshiba Rolls Out New IP Telephone with Analog CO Line Interface
 Toshiba America Information Systems Inc. Telecommunication Systems Division (TAIS TSD) announces the new Toshiba IPT2010-SDC IP Desk Telephone with an analog CO line interface. Compatible with Toshiba’s Strata CIX family of IP communication systems, the new IP phone includes an analog CO line interface for direct access to a local CO line (loop-start) for local calls or emergency dialing - important to enterprises that want telephone access if the IP network goes down, according to Toshiba. The CO line access is supported on a feature button which is programmed as an Analog Central Office (ACO) button (one per station). IP telephone users simply select the ACO button to send the call to the local central office.
The IPT2010-SDC is similar in appearance and functionality to Toshiba’s IPT2010-SD IP telephone, but adds the CO line interface. The phone has 10 programmable buttons, a 2-line x 24-character LCD, full duplex speakerphone and is powered via Power over Ethernet (PoE) or a local AC Adapter. Customers will purchase the new “SDC” model if local CO access is required. When using the ACO service (which provides basic analog functionality), some Strata CIX features will be unavailable such as Caller ID, speed dial, redial, call forward, toll restriction, account codes and least cost routing.
Available now, the estimated retail end user price from an authorized Toshiba dealer is $370. The phone is compatible with current Strata CIX models (CIX670, CIX200, CIX100, CIX40), as well as older Toshiba Strata “CTX” systems via an IP interface unit. Toshiba also offers several other IP telephones, including the IPT2020-SD with 20 programmable keys, the 8-button IPT2008-SDL with large LCD and the SoftIPT SoftPhone that extends the functionality of a desktop telephone to a wired or wireless laptop or PC or PDA.
Esnatech to Support Skype Desktop VoIP Software
Esna Technologies Inc. (Esnatech) announces Skype support for its Telephony Office-LinX (TOL) unified communication platform version 7.5 (due out first quarter 2007), integrating Microsoft’s Outlook Calendar with the Skype desktop VoIP application. Skype software lets people talk through the Internet using any Windows, Mac, Pocket PC or Linux computer with an Internet connection. Now, Skype users with an installed TOL unified messaging system can view the presence status of other Skype users, as well as display their own status, according to information in their Microsoft Outlook Calendar schedule. Skype users can view the calendar status in real-time and see whether other users are available, on the telephone or not on the network at all.
The new Skype support furthers Esnatech’s mission to unify communications by integrating with leading solutions on the market. Recently, Esnatech announced the integration of its UC Mobile Link software on a Research in Motion BlackBerry device, delivering presence, messaging and computer telephony to mobile users. The company also announced SIP integration between the Telephony Office-LinX unified communications platform and IP communications systems from Iwatsu, Teltronics, 3Com, Asterisk, Nortel and Avaya.
Polycom Launches RealPresence Experience in High Definition
 Polycom, Inc. announces the Polycom RealPresence Experience High Definition (RPX HD), a series of telepresence solutions for an interactive “face-to-face” meeting experience. First introduced in May 2006, RPX eliminates geographical barriers by combining video, audio and remote communication technologies over an IP network. Meeting participants can be located anywhere in the world, but see and hear others at the meeting as if they are actually present. The solution enhances teamwork and business productivity among employees, partners and customers located worldwide (in up to 36 separate locations with 4-28 people per room).
The Polycom RPX package includes “a free-standing luxury environment” (a patented room design from recently-acquired Destiny Conferencing Corporation) coupled with electronics from Polycom that provide high definition video and CD audio quality to make participants feel that they are sitting at the same table in the same room. The rooms (with prefabricated walls, tables/desks and chairs, lighting and carpet) contain ceiling-mounted microphones, high definition 3-CCD cameras, large rear-projection displays and a high-fidelity speaker system. The modular solution can be easily moved to another location.
New RPX High Definition (HD) solutions hit the market on January 15, 2007 and are available outside North America for the first time in Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America (CALA) and Asia Pacific (APAC). The new HD solutions add high definition video with a “cinematic view,” new 360-degree ceiling microphone arrays for StereoSurround audio in 22kHz super wideband and direct VGA laptop connectivity for high-resolution content sharing - a truly life-like meeting experience in size, audio and clarity. In addition, Polycom solutions are standards-based to interoperate with any other standards-based video conferencing systems on the market.
“Communication is natural with all cameras and microphones hidden and breakthrough EyeConnect technology and techniques enables people to look directly into the eyes of others when speaking for more natural conversations. Each chair in the room is positioned for optimal visual and audio experience and has seamless multimedia functionality for sharing content from a laptop, ” according to Polycom.
Polycom RPX solutions are available in six modular configurations (200 and 400 Series); complete room solution pricing starts at US$299,000 for a Polycom RPX HD 204. RPX HD is available in North America, Europe, CALA and APAC regions beginning January 15, 2007 (standard definition configurations are also available in North America). Following the acquisition of Destiny Conferencing, the complete solution is now manufactured by Polycom and marketed and sold through certified Polycom channel partners.
ShoreTel Announces Contact Center 4.6 and ShoreWare System Monitor
ShoreTel announces new software for ShoreTel Contact Center, the company’s suite of contact center applications for the ShoreTel IP communications platform. New 4.6 software improves reliability and introduces new features focused on improving productivity and customer satisfaction and lowering costs. A Universal Queue routes all contacts (voice, Web chat, e-mail or fax) to the most skilled agent according to defined business rules. Auto Answer for agents automatically connects an inbound call to an available agent (saves time and improves service), and the Release with Reason Code feature lets agents choose from custom status codes such as “on break” or “out to lunch,” making it easier for managers to keep track of available agents. ShoreTel also introduces an optional backup server that can take over control of the primary server, keeping calls connected and automatically logging on all agents.
 ShoreTel has three call/contact center offerings: ShoreWare Workgroup (optional ACD software for small, informal voice-only call centers), ShoreWare Contact Center (a larger inbound ACD voice-only call center) and ShoreWare Enterprise Contact Center for inbound/outbound multi-media contact centers. The new 4.6 software is available for ShoreWare Contact Center and Enterprise Contact Center platforms only, and the Universal Queue feature applies only to Enterprise Contact Center since it involves multi-media.
ShoreTel also announces the ShoreWare System Monitor (pictured), a new real-time network monitoring tool that gives a comprehensive view of network performance and alerts IT personnel about problems. The SMTP-based software solution can monitor any network device from any vendor and offers Web-based, remote monitoring, a benefit to channel partners who want to offer this as a service to their customers. A subscription starts at $1,750 per year for 250 network interfaces.
Esnatech Opens Regional Sales Office in Mexico
Esna Technologies Inc. (Esnatech) announces a new regional sales office in Mexico City, demonstrating the company’s commitment to the Mexican marketplace where it sees tremendous growth. The new office will work with regional distributors to sell, market and support unified communications solutions to mid- or large-size enterprises in the area. Esnatech plans to expand into other Latin American countries in the future.
Businesses can choose from the two current Esnatech unified messaging platforms to access and manage voice mail, e-mail and fax messages from any SMTP, POP3, or MAPI compliant mail package, or via the Web: (1) Telephony Office-LinX Small Business Edition, a full-featured unified communications solution for smaller businesses (100 voice users and 25 UM licenses) or (2) Telephony Office-LinX (TOL) Enterprise Edition (20,000 voice users and 50 UM licenses), an advanced unified messaging platform with presence management and mobility. Both options support a 2-port, 250-name Speech Recognition technology for speech-enabled dialing and directory access (standard on the Enterprise Edition and optional on the Small Business Edition); customers can upgrade to 500 or 500+ name directories.
In addition, Esnatech offers custom IVR development, installation and deployment services. UC Mobile Link software and the i-Link Mobility Server, a speech-enabled mobility server to be officially announced in January 2007.
NEC Philips Announces New SIP DECT Access Point for SMBs
NEC Philips Unified Solutions (NEC Philips) announces the new Business Mobility IP DECT AP200S Access Point for its SOPHO IPC 100 and IPC 500 IP PBX systems for small and mid-sized businesses. The new “SIP DECT” AP200S is a compact, plug and play device with direct connection to an Ethernet LAN, enabling wireless telephony over an IP network. Each AP200S supports 11 simultaneous duplex calls, and up to 32 DECT Access Points can be connected to one IPC 100 or IPC 500 system. The new SIP DECT package includes the equipment and channel partner support and training for implementation of SIP DECT right “out of the box,” according to the company. In addition to the AP200S, NEC Phillips offers the AP200, a traditional IP DECT Access Point.
The wireless handsets available are GAP-compliant and work with both the NEC Philips’ traditional DECT and SIP DECT solution. Several handsets are offered, including earlier models as follows: SOPHO iSMobile C244 DECT with 50-entry phone book, call logging, 12 languages, 200 hours standby time, 20 hours talk time, 3-line x 16-character display and a 50 meter range (indoor) or 300 meter (outdoor); the C944 DECT cordless handset has similar features, but with a 5-lines x 16 character display and 100-entry phone book, text messaging, vibrating silent ring and a headset; the I600 DECT Industrial cordless handset has a larger display (5-line x 16-character), 18 keys, 100 entry-phone book, 100 hours standby time, seven hours talk time, vibrating silent ring, headset and text messaging.
 A new set, the C124 (pictured) features an illuminated, graphic LCD, loudspeaker, 5-step volume, 10-entry call log, 40-name personal phone book, 13 selectable languages, menu-driven handset configuration, 20 hours talk time, 200 hours standby and eight hours charging time.
In April 2006, NEC took a majority share (60%) in Philips' Business Communication (PBC) as set forth by a Memorandum of Understanding signed by Royal Philips Electronics of The Netherlands and NEC Corporation of Japan. The joint venture formed the new company called 'NEC Philips Unified Solutions' that combines NEC's market presence in North America and Japan with Philip's presence in the European enterprise market.
Nortel and BT Sign Agreement for New Solutions
Nortel and BT (formerly known as British Telecom) have signed a three-year agreement to develop new solutions that combine Nortel’s telephony portfolio and BT’s networked IT services. The partnership will offer BT customers “fresh solutions” that focus on leading-edge communications, including Internet-based video, instant messaging and mobility. Further, BT’s has an extensive base of customers with installed Nortel telephony equipment – this new relationship will drive these customers toward adopting new technologies.
The agreement extends a partnership between Nortel and BT that spans over 15 years. BT is a Nortel Gold Partner and Nortel’s largest partner in EMEA with over 1,000 “Nortel-trained” technicians. In addition, BT is a leading distributor of telephony systems in the UK market, while Nortel is among the top players in the UK market for telephony equipment sales.
Recently, Nortel announced a plan to accelerate the recruitment and development of qualified SMB resellers in the UK, Ireland, Germany, France and Spain initially with other countries across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) to follow in 2007. In addition, Nortel is promoting a marketing campaign that encompasses online and print advertising to end users, channels and trade shows. This Go-To-Market strategy is a focused approach that identifies small business vertical markets and ties these to Nortel partners located in the same region.
Polycom Opens Quality Lab in Tokyo
Polycom, Inc. has opened a new Quality Lab in Tokyo, Japan. Engineers at the new testing facility are conducting four types of testing, including release readiness reviews, interoperability testing, scalability testing and comparative testing to ensure that Polycom solutions operate easily and integrate seamlessly with third party solutions. Tokyo was chosen as the new site based on Japan’s reputation for the highest quality, according to Polycom, and joins two other Polycom Quality Labs in Andover, Massachusetts and Austin, Texas. The three locations will coordinate testing efforts.
The Labs recreate customer configurations which include interfaces with various enterprise communications architectures, verifying new products and releases with Polycom products (readiness and interoperability) and testing endpoints across local and wide area networks (scalability). Polycom will also perform certification testing of partner systems such as those from Microsoft and Alcatel. In addition, specific customer issues can be replicated and tested.
Polycom manufactures a wide array of standards-based voice and video communications endpoints, video management software, web conferencing software, multi-network gateways and multipoint conferencing solutions. Several top vendors are partnering to integrate Polycom IP video conferencing solutions within their enterprise portfolios, including Alcatel, Avaya, Cisco, IBM, Lucent, Microsoft and Nortel. And, standards-based Polycom SoundPoint telephones work with IP PBX and soft switch/application servers from numerous vendors, including BroadSoft, Interactive Intelligence, ShoreTel, Sphere Communications, Sylantro Systems and Digium.
For questions, feedback and product information,
contact sgustavsen@accessintel.com. |
Database publisher and analyst group TelecomTactics finds that nearly 50% of the new enterprise telephony systems introduced in 2006 in the North American market were designed for small- or mid-sized businesses (SMBs) or branch offices of larger businesses that require fewer than 250 stations (down from 60-70% in recent years). Further, over a third (35%) of the new enterprise telephony systems introduced in 2006 were designed for growing businesses in the mid-size range (250-750 employees) – an upward shift from previous years. And though newly introduced systems for larger businesses can expand to support over 750 stations, these systems can also be deployed in a mid-sized business. Thus, even the new larger systems can be categorized in the mid-market range (with room for growth), increasing the percentage of new telephony systems for the mid-market to over 50% (systems supporting 250-750+ stations).
