Local ICT specialist Grintek Telcom and Verso Technologies have won a multimillion-rand contract to replace upgrade Telkom's existing voice over IP (VOIP) platform. The new solution will allow Telkom to offer a more competitive wholesale international VOIP service to international carriers with charges based on unit time usage.
Installation commenced toward the end of February 2004 and is scheduled to be completed by mid-2004.
"VOIP is a technology that offers flexibility through the ability to compress voice traffic using Internet Protocol, thus allowing for saving on trunking charges," says Srini Moodley, account director at Grintek Telecom. "The service is faster with VOIP technology and reduces the costs associated with interconnectivity, maintenance and operations.
"Carriers are looking for cost-effective alternatives to traditional telecommunications systems, especially for international traffic, and VOIP provides an inexpensive, high-speed solution with lower deployment and operational costs. Based on the common IP standard, it also makes for easier interconnections with other carriers, thus promoting wholesale services to international carriers."
The new solution will provide more flexibility with better security. It also provides scalability to cater for future upgrading requirements without the necessity of a "forklift" upgrade.
The deployment includes the upgrade of 744 E1 lines and implementation of a wide-area digital transmission scheme that carries data at a rate of 2Mbps. Additional 96 E1 lines are scheduled to be installed, enhancing Telkom's speed and service, with systems management provided by Verso's Clarent Command Centre component.
Specially designed Verso BHG 2500 media gateways have been commissioned to meet Telkom's requirements along with servers that handle the E1 lines. MPSS 3000 gateways are also part of the solution and will handle SS7 signals. The solution will ensure that Telkom is able to substantially increase its VOIP traffic and cope with future growth.
"Grintek Telecom supplied the Verso Technologies solution along with design and implementation," says Moodley. "Grintek Telecom enjoys a long-standing relationship with Verso Technologies and has technically certified staff to handle support and maintenance issues. This provides Telkom with access to internationally recognised solutions with the advantage of local support and maintenance."
"Grintek Telecom is an excellent partner for Verso, and we are pleased to jointly announce this sale. This shows that after years of joint efforts in the southern African market, we truly can be seen as market leaders," says Yves Desmet, VP sales EMEA for Verso Technologies.
Share
Grintek Telecom, a division of JSE-listed Grintek Ltd, is one of SA's leading empowerment ICT solutions and integration companies. Grintek Telecom provides tailored and innovative ICT solutions, from initial project and business requirement consulting, through to implementation, integration and ongoing support.
The company's ICT solutions have been implemented in more than 500 top South African companies and it provides solutions, services and maintenance in 23 African countries. Over 25 international vendors have selected Grintek Telecom as their local service provider and partner.
Editorial contacts