Johannesburg, 30 Jul 2003
The project was undertaken by Flextronics SA on behalf of a global provider of next-generation messaging solutions. The customer required the existing SGF (Signalling Gateway Function) - operating on a Solaris platform - to be converted to a Linux platform with the addition of new system interfaces. The main objective of this project was to provide a higher performance platform with a reduced operating cost.
The customer
The customer is a global provider of next-generation messaging solutions for the fixed and service provider market. The unified communications solution has a "one number" service for all media, covering voice and e-mail., which can be accessed and controlled using voice commands. Other functions provided are peer-to-peer messaging, mailbox out dialling and one-touch call return over IP and PSTN networks.
Each of the solutions can support up to five million users with up to 6 000 inbound and outbound connections. Solutions have been installed globally in 200 service providers supporting 50 million users in 60 countries.
The project
The existing Solaris version of the SGF was converted to a Linux platform with new interface cards, which have added additional features to the overall system.
The SGF was tested thoroughly by Flextronics and the customer and then supported by Flextronics through the in-service trials.
Technology
Telephone calls over the PSTN have their call control messages routed over the SS7 network. The SGF accepts call signalling information from the SS7 network to manage calls into the customer`s messaging platform. Implementation technologies were: C++, Corba, Java, Linux, scripting.
Specific challenges
The messaging solution handles very high call rates, and has to be stable and reliable. Flextronics developed test equipment to enable solutions testing. On site testing was carried out remotely with close customer cooperation.
Business values
The customer has realised substantial savings in deploying the Linux SGF, as well as being able to offer a technically superior solution.
The customer is being supported by the Flextronics SA Linux team, who are providing ongoing and future support on the solution.
Implementation
The project was implemented as a single cycle release, passing through the following phases: definition, implementation, testing and support.
Business model
A fixed price model was implemented, based on milestone payments.
Resources and duration
A team of up to 12 engineers worked on this project, using Linux machines as development servers and test machines, controlled from desktop workstations. The project was implemented over eight months, followed by a four-month support phase.
Summary
The conversion of the SGF solution to a Linux platform has given the customer a competitive advantage in being able to offer a technically superior solution at a reduced price.
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