Mitel Networks delivers the power of IP to the desktop

Mitel Networks has announced its new innovative IP devices and peripherals including March Networks 5140 IP Appliance, March Networks 5055 SIP Phone, and March Networks 5305 IP Office Conference Unit.

Mitel also announced an all-in-one voice and data solution for small enterprises, and IP-based productivity solutions.

On 4 May 2001, Mitel Networks and March Networks entered into a trademark licensing agreement permitting Mitel Networks to use the March Networks brand in the new VOIP naming strategy. The name change is the next step in a process of better aligning the two companies` product portfolios.

According to Netcom CRM chief operating officer Gary Shepherd, March Networks 5140 IP Appliance is the first in a series of next-generation network appliances from Mitel for use with March Networks Integrated Communications Platforms.

"Through the use of a 320X240 high-resolution display, the 5140 IP Appliance transforms the traditional desktop telephone into a gateway to the network, providing enterprise users with such advanced features as integrated Web browsing, enhanced directory management and visual voice mail." The value proposition of the 5140 IP Appliance is further enhanced through the addition of a hi-fi audio, built-in PDA integration and value-added applications such as March Networks 6500 Speech-Enabled Applications. March Networks IP Appliances provide instant access to real-time information across the network.

March Networks 5055 SIP Phone is Mitel`s first IP telephony device to implement Session Initiation Protocol (SIP). With all of the business telephone features and functionality of a March Networks 5020 IP Phone, the 5055 SIP Phone delivers all of the benefits of SIP-based IP telephony without compromising usability, quality or reliability.

The introduction of the 5055 SIP Phone validates Mitel Networks` commitment to the future development of open standards-based IP solutions.

"The future adoption of open IP standards presents a huge opportunity for Mitel Networks and enterprise IP telephony as a whole. With the introduction of March Networks 5055 SIP Phone, Mitel is taking the first steps towards further development and eventual adoption of open IP standards in our desktop devices," adds Shepherd.

Using acoustic beamforming technology, the March Networks 5305 IP Office Conference Unit is a powerful new IP peripheral for March Networks 5010 and 5020 IP Phones. Through focusing an audio cone on the speaker, the 5305 IP Office Conference Unit virtually eliminates ambient room noise and side bar conversations, creating a dramatically improved conference phone experience, while offering crystal clear audio quality.

"Conferencing users have been increasingly concerned about the converged future of IP," says Shepherd. "Mitel`s conferencing solutions will embrace converged IP networks and bring enhanced features and usability to conferencing peripherals and applications."

IP peripherals are further enhanced through March Networks 5423 IrDA Module. The 5423 IrDA Module allows PDAs running the PALM Operating System to interface with an IP set via an infrared link. The IrDA interface provides increased efficiency and ease of in-building mobility for the enterprise user.

"One of the key components in the success of enterprise IP telephony is in the deployment of intelligent devices and peripherals that enhance end-user productivity, and deliver on the promise of advanced features and services," said Larry Hettick, Vice-President Consulting, TeleChoice.