VocalTec Communications, which launched its first VoIP products in 1995, announced a major expansion of its Essentra product suite for next generation network (NGN) operators and service providers. The new products include:
- a broadband VoIP access platform — a SIP-based platform for providing subscriber features and Web-based management for broadband VoIP access networks for SOHO and residential markets. The new Essentra BAX is an out-of-the-box hosted platform that resides in the service provider’s network facility. End users connect to the service through a SIP-based integrated Access Device (IAD) or SIP Phone. It supports traditional subscriber calling features, such as call waiting, call forward, etc., as well as new features, including conferencing, do-not-disturb, etc. A web-based self-provisioning interface allows end-users to manage their subscription services.
- a multiprotocol, core control softswitch featuring intelligent routing, control of 3rd party gateways, and seamless migration of H.323 networks to NGN.
- a network peering manager — an edge network device enabling interconnection and peering of VoIP networks, featuring dynamic call routing, security, QoS, internetworking, and other border functions. The new Essentra EX Peering Manager is aimed at wholesale operators, clearinghouses and bilateral traffic exchange. VocalTec has integrated the Essentra EX product with Acme Packet’s Net-Net session border controller. Together these products meet the security, interworking, service assurance and regulatory requirements of service providers at the borders of IP networks. Firewall and Network Address Translation (NAT) support guarantee secure interconnection to both carrier and enterprise networks.
- a signaling and traffic gateway — a multi-purpose VoIP gateway, providing SS7 signaling and standards-based integration with any softswitch or H.323 gatekeeper. It enables connections between SS7 telephony and SIP VoIP networks. The platform is designed for small to medium-sized service providers, and scales with high granularity from 48 to 960 voice channels and supports up to four signaling links and TDM traffic.
Vocaltec said its new product set is designed for quickly rolling out Voice-over- Broadband and Long Distance VoIP services. In terms of architecture, the Essentra Product Suite is based on a clear division between the transport (media) and control (softswitch) layers. Multiple protocol support and interworking for SIP, SIP-T, Q.1912.5, MGCP, MEGACO, H.248, H.323, SS7-ISUP, PRI, and SIGTRAN enable new services and facilitate peering. In addition, VocalTec supports more than 60 SS7 country variants. http://www.vocaltec.com/