Hi Bill,
>... my supposition...was accurate: IDT is employing switches in it's network that are capable of data networking as well as traditional voice or PTSN. Correct?<
Even without specific knowledge of their stated plans (maybe you could elaborate on the source of this matter as it relates to this discussion), I would still have to answer: Yes, correct. There is no other logical way for them to proceed at this point. They need to both address both worlds, and create the bridge between them.
>>Therefore, ALA's slowdown in the traditional switching business...<M
All major switch manufacturers have scaled back on their production of intrinsically switched platforms, in response to the larger carriers stated intentions of taking the convergence road. Last year LU announced the discontinuance of their 4E Class 4 machines, in response to T's and others' apparent strategies that called for flattening out their networks. This means the removing of the five classes of switches in the hierarchy, and placing more edge-to-edge switching devices in the way of programmable switches.
MCIW and FON, ditto. Nortel is integrating IP capabilities on all of their central office platforms as we speak. Their new service names are Extreme Centrex and the Unified Networking architecture. Siemens, Nokia and Ericsson, likewise. They are are adding IP capabilities not only to their switches, but to their cellular and PCS platforms as well. The common theme throughout here is the ability to continue supporting traditional services, while inching into the IP realm. To a great extent, DSP technologies are at the core of these emerging capabilities.
HTH, Frank_C.
|
