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Delivering next generation audiovisual services for triple-play networks

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26.04.2004

A universal three-in-one set-top network interface for domestic and small office markets that promises access to voice, video and data streams delivering a rich repertoire of services over triple-play broadband networks has been developed by IST project AVPACK.

"The unit is aimed at network operators and service providers that deploy such networks, and will enable them to offer value-added services and develop new markets," says Christos Georgopoulos of inAccess Networks, the company marketing the unit. "Service providers can configure units remotely, and customise them according to the services rented by subscribers."

The units have wired and wireless interfaces for Internet and power line communications. They offer an impressive array of functions such as voice-over IP (VoIP) that enables subscribers’ existing telephones to make calls over the Internet; a built-in private telephone switchboard with features such as call queuing, call forwarding, voice mail, least-cost routing, etc.; a data router and firewall, with full support for virtual private networks and encryption; backup circuits; and support for multimedia content handling and delivery.

Georgopoulos comments that, "the AVPACK unit has the potential to open up a number of new markets and services. Broadband service providers could offer packages, in much the same way as cable operators do, that combine telephone, data and video services. A key advantage of the AVPACK unit is that it offers full support for MHP [Multimedia Home Platform, a digital video broadcasting standard], which underpins video-on-demand, EPG [electronic programme guides], interactive TV, digital video recording and more."

"AVPACK is based on the multi-service gateway platform of inAccess Networks of Greece," adds Georgopoulos. "The MHP and video processing know-how comes from Technotrend of Germany, and the VoIP telephony protocol support has been contributed by National Technical University of Athens. The system has been validated by the Greek PTT, OTE, in collaboration with its consulting arm, Temagon."

Full trials of the system will take place in Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain and The Netherlands during 2004. The system will be available under licence from inAccess Networks, and the MHP framework from Technotrend.



Contact:
Christos Georgopoulos
InAccess Networks SA
230, Sigrou Avenue
GR-17672, Athens
Greece
Tel: +30-210-9537110
Fax: +30-210-9537129
Email: cgeorg@inaccessnetworks.com

Source: Based on information from AVPACK

Tara Morris | Source: IST Results
Further information: istresults.cordis.lu/index.cfm?section=news&tpl=article&ID=64814

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