SBC Communications Inc. has tapped Nortel Networks to provide it with Multimedia Communication Server (MCS) 5100 equipment to offer business customers advanced calling features similar to those VoIP can deliver, but without widespread deployment of equipment. The platform, which allows businesses to keep the functionality and numbering plan of their current voice networks, delivers new features such as call screening, call logging, picture caller ID, desktop video calling and integrated instant messaging. A fully managed solution for the Nortel Networks MCS 5100, which can work in conjunction with traditional business Centrex or PBX voice systems, is under development and will be introduced this year.
SBC Taps Siemens
In other SBC news, Siemens Information and Communication Networks Inc. is providing SBC Services Inc. with the Siemens SURPASS Business Connection solution as the nextgeneration delivery platform for the recently announced SBC PremierSERV Hosted IP Communication Service. Siemens is providing an integrated solution which includes its Surpass Softswitch, Sylantro’s feature server and elements provided by other major name providers in the industry. For example, it allows multimedia communications, multiparty collaboration, unified voice-to-text and text-to-voice messaging, as well as click-to-dial, call management and integration with Microsoft Outlook and other multimedia applications.
TWT Extends Native LAN
Time Warner Telecom’s Extended Native LAN now is available to businesses in 44 U.S. markets. Extended Native LAN is a managed end-to-end customer solution delivered over Time Warner Telecom’s IP fiber backbone network. Initial customers of Extended Native LAN service include First Magnus Financial Corp., a mortgage banker in Tucson, Ariz., and Quad/Graphics, the world’s largest privately held printer of magazines, catalogs and other commercial products.
ICG Expands Conferencing
ICG Communications Inc. now sells its Voice+Web Conferencing service throughout the United States providing both reservationless audio and Web functionality. The service delivers simple audio conferences to companywide online training programs involving geographically diverse presentations for local, regional and international offices. Operatorassisted services, playback recordings and event reporting also are available.
