Global communication provider Zhone Technologies is partnering with fixed-line operator Telecom Egypt to deploy broadband loop carrier technology to provide triple play services to that country`s growing market, says Ramy Abdallah, regional manager for Zhone Technologies Africa.
The technology will allow Telecom Egypt users to access voice, video and data services such as ADSL2+, VDSL2, passive optical network (PON), Ethernet and IP video services over a pure packet access network, says Abdallah.
According to a company press release, the project will combine Zhone Malc technology with Nortel CS2K Softswitch and ATM network technology, allowing circuit switched voice to move onto the pure packet network to the end-user.
"Zhone Malc, combined with Nortel CS2K Softswitch, will create access concentrators for Telecom Egypt users, allowing triple play services based on a next generation network."
The technology also gives carriers the flexibility to cost-effectively migrate triple play services over existing facilities, says Abdallah. He adds the migration is accomplished without disrupting subscriber service or revenue streams, giving carriers the ultimate flexibility for optimising their networks and serving their subscribers.
Time division multiplexing (TDM) traffic can be converted into packets by the technology, which can then be transported across the network, he adds. Dual TDM and packet uplinks are also supported, providing similar flexibility for the migration of trunking facilities.
Telecom Egypt has a subscriber base that stands at more than 10.6 million people, making it the largest fixed-line provider in the Middle East and African market, says Abdallah. The North African market is promising in terms of growth, he adds, with Zhone also providing carrier technology in Algeria and Tunisia.
Some companies spend up to $10 million to implement the technology, he notes.
He says Zhone is looking to spread into the western and sub-Saharan African markets, with strong emphasis on Botswana, Cameroon, Kenya and Nigeria.
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