On the foundation of Philips Business Communication`s (PBC) R5.7 million installation of Sasol Synthetic Fuels (SSF) telecommunication system, AST Networks has deployed voice-over-IP (VOIP) technology in selected offices at the site. The original installation consisted of two SOPHO iS3070 Voice Servers. AST Networks is a business unit of the AST Group.
According to Rudi Taljaard, AST Network`s Business Development Manager, the Philips` SOPHO @vance 6000 architecture enabled the use of the existing SSF data infrastructure to transport voice.
"The VOIP project consisted of the installation of an IP Call-Manager which, like the SOPHO iS3000, runs on the well-known SOPHO Call@Net call processing software. A SOPHO Link@Net IP media Gateway was used to link the circuit-switched and packet-switched environments. We also installed 10 ErgoLine@Net MK II IP terminals with a built in two port repeater obviating the need for extra LAN points and helping the customer to save substantially," said Taljaard.
He explained that iPVN, an intelligent signalling mechanism between the IP Call-Manager and the SOPHO iS3000 Voice Servers, was also used. "This facilitates a high level of telephony feature transparency between the circuit-switched and the packet-switched environments."
From the outset the installation has been true to the `evergreen` policy of PBC and the deployment of VOIP has been no different.
"The entire installation makes use, wherever possible, of existing technology thereby laying the foundation, for the roll-out of a full IP solution should SSF require it in the future."
According to SSF group leader Francois Coetzer, the VOIP deployment has been a great success.
"All our project targets were met and the possibility of a full VOIP solution in our business has become a reality. The AST Network`s team has been thoroughly professional and reliable and we look forward to working with them on future developments," said Coetzer.
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In just three years the AST Group has established itself as one of the leading information and communication technology companies on the JSE Securities Exchange. Its consistent creation of value for shareholders, clients and employees has resulted in a steady increase in monthly revenue to the R100 million plus mark.
AST is now the fourth largest South African IT company by market capitalisation, and is one of the top three in terms of physical infrastructure (mainframes, servers, desktops, and networks under management) and geographical footprint with over 62 physical locations. Counting almost 90% of the top 100 JSE-listed companies among its clients, the AST Group services mostly large corporate and government clients, but is increasingly offering services to rapidly evolving small and medium enterprises.
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