BellSouth unveiled plans to evolve its SONET infrastructure to a next-generation Multiservice Provisioning Platform (MSPP) architecture using equipment from Cisco Systems and Lucent Technologies. Specifically, BellSouth is using the Lucent Metropolis DMX Access Multiplexer in interoffice networks and end customer high bandwidth ring applications. Later this year it will be deployed for high-bandwidth loop applications. BellSouth will also use Cisco Systems’ ONS 15454 MSPP to support new services, such as Gigabit Ethernet. As part of their expanded relationship, BellSouth and Cisco will provide local and long-distance network transport, equipment, professional services and on-site maintenance and monitoring support for both the SMB (small and medium businesses) and Enterprise markets. Financial terms were not disclosed. BellSouth said the new deployments mark significant milestones in its network evolution strategy. Also as part of this plan, BellSouth last month integrated MPLS into its network core and edge. The Cisco 10000 and 12000 Series routers are being used in BellSouth’s network edge for IP/MPLS service delivery.
http://www.bellsouth.com
- In May 2003, Lucent Technologies introduced its next-generation SONET access multiplexer for enterprise installations in North America. The new Metropolis DMXplore Access Multiplexer is a single shelf, multi-service access device that enables 16 protected or unprotected DS-1s over an OC-3 interface. The unit, which is designed for fiber to the business and fiber to the curb applications, provides a pre-provisioned set of cross-connections (fixed mapping), which aids in quick deployments. The Metropolis DMXplore is supported by Lucent’s Navis Optical Management solution.