Lucent Technologies Announces Standards-Based Telephony Gateway for Converged Voice, Video, and Data Services

Strategic Insights -

Lucent Technologies has unveiled a standards-based telephony gateway called iMerge Network-based Call Signaling (NCS) Gateway, which enables cable operators to migrate from circuit-switched telephony equipment to offering converged voice, video, and data services over a single network using Internet protocol (IP). This solution connects directly to existing Class 5 switches and cable modem termination systems, reducing costs and creating a platform for new IP services. With iMerge, cable operators can continue to offer full-featured, reliable telephone service while beginning to create a truly converged multiservice network.

Key Takeaways:

  • The iMerge Network-based Call Signaling (NCS) Gateway is a standards-based solution that helps cable operators migrate from circuit-switched telephony equipment to a converged voice, video, and data network using IP.
  • iMerge connects directly to existing Class 5 switches and cable modem termination systems using industry-standard interfaces.
  • The solution reduces costs and creates a platform for new IP services, allowing cable operators to continue offering full-featured, reliable telephone service.
  • iMerge is part of Lucent's 7R/E Packet Solutions, which offers existing service providers a seamless migration to packet networks.
  • The solution complements and expands Lucent's CableConnect Solutions, which offers integrated products and services for reliable telephony and high-speed data services over existing cable networks.
  • iMerge has been developed in conjunction with the Cable Solutions Group in Lucent's InterNetworking Systems business unit and will be generally available later this year.
  • The solution has been designed to work with Lucent's existing switches, allowing cable operators to leverage their existing infrastructure.
  • iMerge will begin trials with cable operators next month and will be generally available later this year.

Statistics:

  • Cable operators currently have two separate networks and corresponding equipment, one for voice and one for data.
  • iMerge packetizes the incoming phone calls and sends them from the headend to the customer using IP.
  • Outgoing voice packets are translated for delivery to the switch and the public telephone network.
  • Lucent Technologies has designed and developed iMerge in conjunction with AG Communications Systems, a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced communication products and services.
  • Lucent Technologies is headquartered in Murray Hill, N.J., USA, and has a global presence with research and development facilities in various locations worldwide.
  • Lucent Technologies has a reputation for delivering innovative solutions for next-generation communications networks, including optical and wireless networks, Internet infrastructure, and communications software.

Sources:

  • Lucent Technologies. (1998). NCTA Cable 2000 Show, Booth # 1327 - Lucent Technologies Announces Standards-Based Telephony Gateway.
  • Lucent Technologies. (1998). Lucent Technologies.