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Networkers explore options at ComNet
By Ben Heskett
Staff Writer, CNET News.com
January 26, 1999, 12:40 p.m. PT
update The cutting-edge combination of voice and data networking has reached a fevered
pitch as players rush into the market, scrambling for the same niche.
Various firms in the networking industry will gather this week in Washington to debut the
latest technologies in their war chests. The companies aim to bridge the divide between voice
technology networks and data communications technology offerings.
The convergence of traditional voice-based networks with more cost-effective layouts based
on equipment provided by firms such as Cisco Systems, Nortel Networks, and 3Com is the new
industry buzz, underscoring one of the largest shifts in networking in some time.
Analysts predict data equipment that embraces voice features and integrates current voice
networks will be one of the largest market opportunities in the coming years--with some
pegging the market in the tens of billions of dollars.
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Embracing the trend as part of its core strategy, data networking leader Cisco launched a new
line of high-speed equipment based on various versions of Ethernet, the dominant means used
to connect PCs and servers. The equipment, combined with new technology for an existing
line of fast-selling devices called the Catalyst 5000, feeds into the company's strategy of
adding voice capabilities to existing and new hardware.
The new lines, to be called the Catalyst 6000 and 6500, leaves Cisco with what could be
perceived as a confusing array of switching equipment for a
sector that remains one of the fastest growing niches in the
business. But executives claim the new additions only add
more flexibility for its customers, and indicate a trend toward
specialization in the market.
"There are multiple options," said Marthin De Beer, director of
product marketing for Cisco's switching business.
The new 6000 and 6500 lines shipping now include
high-density options for gigabit-speed Ethernet, the latest
version of the technology. Cisco has been taking hits from
competitors on the state of their product line in this area for
some time, but with recent developments, the company seems
to have made some ground.
"What you see now is that we have a complete set," said De
Beer. "In terms of actual delivery, we're right in line with these
other vendors."
Cisco also rolled out a new option for its Catalyst 5000 line
that can separate voice traffic from data transmissions, and
adds reliability features within the latest version of its Internet
working operating system (IOS) software so voice
communications can be completed.
Cisco also claims to have a pricing edge versus competitors
such as Nortel Networks and Cabletron Systems, though any
pricing differentiation in the cut-throat Ethernet-based
switching market is usually short-lived.
And Cisco is only one of slew of networking players targeting the bridge between the voice
and data networking worlds.
Nortel plans to add new software features within its Passport 4400 line of devices that support
a variety of networking technologies. The new code supports a series of voice protocols that
allow customers with existing digital voice networks to add the same advanced services, such
as caller identification, currently offered for segments built using the Passport switches.
3Com said it is now shipping a new system for IP-based voice traffic, based on its Total
Control remote access concentrator hardware. The new technology can be integrated with
existing voice-based switches or rolled out as part of a new service, according to company
executives.
The roll out includes a three-tiered technology approach, consisting of gateways, so-called
gatekeepers, and back-end server technology, according to the company.
3Com also said it will soon ship a new PBX system that combines voice and data for small and
medium-sized businesses.
The so-called SuperStack II PBX 1000 is the first product from the 3Com and Siemens joint
venture announced last December.
The new SuperStack II hardware and software, based on technologies from both firms, costs
$157 per subscriber based on a total of 28 users. The product, which will include three 3Com
digital telephones, will ship Feb. 1.
Furthering its aims in the market for digital subscriber line (DSL) hardware, 3Com also rolled
out two new DSL-based modems based on symmetric and ISDN-based technology. The new
additions to 3Com's DSL strategy are intended for small and medium businesses as well as
competitive local exchange carriers, or CLECs.
Also, data player Newbridge Networks will debut another piece in its so-called versatile IP
strategy. The company plans to announce a new service that runs on top of its 36100
access concentrator hardware that makes it easy for service providers to provision
Internet access and virtual connections to users, such as telecommuters or remote
offices.
Later this year, the strategy will be buttressed by the addition of voice-over-IP
features, according to company executives.
Separately, systems giant IBM is hoping to re-invigorate its networking business with
new additions to its own line of Ethernet-based switching devices. The new
gigabit-speed Ethernet switches represents IBM's bid for a portion of the lucrative
switching market, and is comprised of a combination of internally developed
technology and hardware developed by Xylan, a company that licenses its products to
IBM.
Also, Cabletron Systems is expected to announce new additions to its product line
based on asynchronous transfer mode, or ATM, technology.
The activity is part of this week's ComNet industry trade show.
CNET News.com's Wylie Wong contributed to this report.
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• Home networking: Here but yet so far January 21, 1999
• Cisco bridging data, voice divide January 20, 1999
• Ascend meets the Street on higher sales January 19, 1999
• Microsoft, 3Com team on net gear January 19, 1999
• Lucent deal combines Net, phone power January 13, 1999
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