BURLINGTON, Mass., July 6 /PRNewswire/ -- VideoServer, Inc.
(Nasdaq: VSVR), the global leader in networked conferencing, today announced
that its Encounter NetGate was selected by GTE Government Systems as the IP-
based multimedia communications gateway that will enable the U.S. Army to take
full advantage of a completely integrated communications architecture.
Solutions integrator GTE has worked with both VideoServer and reseller partner
2C Communications Group to present the best-of-breed technology for the U.S.
Army's First Digitized Division (FDD) project. The FDD will be the first
technically advanced, combat-ready division to rely on multimedia
communications over IP.
"VideoServer's Encounter NetGate offers an easy-to-use, interoperable,
high-quality solution for the Army," said Kevin Braz, senior systems engineer,
network systems, GTE Government Systems. "The Encounter NetGate performs a
vital role in the tactical environment, allowing data and video calls to be
placed from any network with legacy or new, state-of-the-art video equipment
and be assured of reaching the right person either over a mobile, satellite or
land-line communications system."
With an immediate purchase of 35 VideoServer Encounter NetGates, GTE will
incorporate the gateway's H.320/H.323 bridging capabilities into a mobile
network built into the bed of the Army's Hummvee vehicles. Through IP-based
multimedia communications, field staff as well as those based at the node
center in the Pentagon can effectively disseminate orders, clearly convey
content and work collaboratively on action plans. The Army is currently using
H.320-based video solutions for its conferencing capabilities and is working
with GTE to upgrade its communications system with an IP-over-satellite
network, which will increase performance and accessibility. The Encounter
NetGate will play a vital role in facilitating this transition.
"One of the world's most respected organizations is investing in the easy-
to-use, reliable and robust capabilities that VideoServer's Encounter NetGate
delivers. This illustrates that IP-conferencing is truly ready for prime
time," said Khoa Nguyen, president and CEO, VideoServer, Inc. "We deliver
unmatched interoperability and scalability, both vital characteristics to
drive this market from pilot studies into deployment."
Efficiencies of Deploying the Encounter NetGate in the Field
The VideoServer Encounter NetGate bridges calls between the H.320
(circuit-switched) and H.323 (IP) networks. It enables users to have easy
access to accurate, timely situational information, ultimately resulting in
improved decision making in the battlefield or training scenario, regardless
of their network connections or the videoconferencing terminal's capabilities.
In addition to its interoperability and ease of use, the Encounter NetGate
is the only gateway in the market to offer sophisticated functionality, such
as:
-- Connectivity using the widest range of connection speeds -- The
Encounter NetGate provides guaranteed connectivity at the optimal
performance for every type of call through its dynamic conferencing
capabilities.
-- High-quality multimedia communications experience -- The Army will
use multimedia communications to share detailed graphical information
such as maps and aerial photos, which is crucial during combat or
surveillance activities. Accuracy is key in any high-risk situation,
and the undeniable value of picture clarity enables commanders to make
well-informed decisions.
-- Unmatched interoperability and manageability -- Through the Encounter
NetGate's superior interoperability, the Army will be able to connect
its mobile points of presence with land-based users (e.g., the
Pentagon) to communicate in real time. Because the Encounter NetGate
is integrated into the mobile network, it is easy for a central
location to manage the flow of calls made to field units.
About 2C Communications Group
2C Communications Group, Inc. was founded in 1997 to provide customers
with a single source for videoconferencing products, technical support,
training and consulting services. 2C enables customers to leverage video
communications technology to meet their present and future communications
requirements. In addition to providing a complete line of desktop
videoconferencing and group systems from Intel, Tandberg, and PictureTel, the
world's leading providers of videoconferencing solutions, 2C provides state-
of-the-art networking solutions through its strategic partnerships.
About VideoServer
VideoServer, Inc. (Nasdaq: VSVR) is the leading global provider of
networked conferencing, which enables people in multiple locations to
communicate together using any combination of audio, video and data.
VideoServer connects employees, customers, and partners, reliably to each
other by providing seamless integration of networked conferencing over LANs,
WANs, and any IP-based network. The Company's Multimedia Conference Servers
(MCS) and other products provide multipoint conferencing, gateway services,
conference control, network management and bandwidth management.
VideoServer sells its products worldwide through leading resellers and
integrators, as well as remarketers of videoconferencing and networking
solutions. VideoServer also sells directly to providers of conferencing
services, including Internet Service Providers, telecommunication carriers,
Regional Bell Operating Companies and global PTTs.
Editor's Note: The VideoServer logo is a registered trademark of
VideoServer, Inc. Encounter and Velocity are trademarks of VideoServer Inc.
Additional information on VideoServer and its products is available at http://
www.videoserver.com. All other trademarks are property of their respective
companies.
SOURCE VideoServer, Inc.
-0- 07/06/99
/CONTACT: Carrie A. Marino of Lois Paul & Partners, 781-238-5734,
carriemarino@lpp.com/
/Web site: videoserver.com |
