Convergent Networks and TeraBridge Technologies Jointly Demonstrate ATM-Based Convergence

Strategic Insights -

At the COMNET tradeshow in Washington, D.C., Convergent Networks and TeraBridge Technologies have jointly demonstrated interoperability between their respective technologies, marking the first time that ATM-based convergence has been integrated and proven to be interoperable in an end-to-end ATM-based voice/data network. The demonstration showcases the potential of ATM-based technology to enable carriers to select "best-of-breed" technologies and decouple the switching and service intelligence, accelerating the movement to next-generation voice/data networks.

Key Takeaways:

  • The demonstration, which took place between Jan. 25-27, marked the first time that ATM-based convergence, or broadband central office, devices from two different vendors have been integrated and proven to be interoperable in an end-to-end ATM-based voice/data network.
  • Convergent Networks and TeraBridge Technologies, members of the ATM Local Telephony Alliance (ALTA), used the demonstration as a means to foster ALTA's core mission of promoting the interoperability of software and hardware solutions by using ATM as the next-generation telephony technology.
  • Other ALTA members participating in the joint demonstration include Advanced Switching Communications, Flexion, VINA Technologies, Woodwind Communications, and more.
  • The demonstration showed that all necessary elements of an ATM-based next-generation network can interoperate, including switches provided by multiple vendors.
  • The joint demonstration aimed to foster the ALTA's mission and promote the use of ATM as the next-generation telephony technology.

Statistics:

  • $57 million: the amount of venture funding secured by Convergent Networks from Battery Ventures, Matrix Partners, North Bridge Venture Partners, Vantage Point Venture Partners, and Worldview Technology Partners.
  • 36170 MainStreetXpress(TM) switch from Newbridge Networks: one of the switches used in the joint demonstration.
  • PathMinder(TM) software suite: the cost-effective intelligent networking solution developed by TeraBridge Technologies for the telecommunications carrier, switching, and private line service markets.

Sources:

  • Business Wire, "Convergent Networks and TeraBridge Technologies Announce Interoperability Demonstration of Next-Generation Network Technologies", January 18, 2000.
  • About Convergent Networks, "Service Enabling Architecture", no date.
  • About TeraBridge Technologies Corporation, "PathMinder Software Suite", no date.
  • ALTA, "About", www.altainfo.org, no date.
  • COMNET, "About the Demonstration", no date.