Comparex Africa`s networking division, Comparex Africa Networks, has signed a contract with Universal Exchange Corporation (UNEXcor), whereby it architected its networking platform and allowed for Internet Protocol (IP)-based connectivity.
UNEXcor is the official clearing house of the Bond Exchange and is the mechanism used by Settlement Agents for the secure settlement of all market transactions. UNEXcor interfaces with the Central Depository and the South African Reserve Bank`s National Payments System for the DvP settlement of securities and funds. It is owned by the four major South African banks namely Absa, FirstRand, Nedcor and Standard.
"We needed a network to support the growing demand for an integrated and scalable communications infrastructure between the various stakeholders in UNEXcor. The legacy SNA NCP-based network was required to integrate many legacy protocols, which was difficult to service and maintain. We had to move towards IP integration, which now allows for better network communication and integration with new technology," says Rita Roper, general manager of UNEXcor.
The move away from COMTEN Front End Processors to Cisco`s Channel Interface Processors (CIP) allowed for high-performance SNA and TCP/IP networking, eliminated the need for and cost of multiple dedicated mainframe Front End Processors and also supports both IBM parallel channel (bus and tag) and ESCON technologies. The Cisco router based CIP presents multiple network connectivity options for UNEXcor and its clients.
UNEXcor and Comparex Africa Networks performed a business needs analysis of the existing IT infrastructure and environment, mapping the CIP technology to meet UNEXcor`s business needs. Comparex Africa Networks presented UNEXcor with four options, which were designed to provide the mechanisms for SNA and TCP/IP integration of which UNEXcor chose the Cisco CIP route. Additionally the X.25 NPSI (NCP Packet Switching Interface) and PCNE (Protocol Converter for Non-SNA Equipment) features, which were used on the FEPs, have been migrated to the new Cisco network with additional components installed under OS/390 to provide the X25 to SNA protocol conversion. The solution included APPN Extended Border Node (PU5 to PU5 connections), a first for South Africa, One-Sided SNI, PU2 and X.25 over TCP/IP (XOT) connections. The migration from Subarea SNI to APPN Extended Border Node proved to be a non-trivial task, as was expected, and posed many complex technical challenges as most of the complexities lie within the Cisco CIP and VTAM/APPN. Through intensive detailed planning and research coupled with the expertise within UNEXcor and Comparex Africa Networks, and with the co-operation of the UNEXcor clients, the migration was completed with no disruption to the day-to-day operations.
Says Tim Knowles, Comparex Africa Networks managing executive: "In this solution, Comparex Africa have supplied all the integration of the hardware, operational software and the ongoing support. UNEXcor and Comparex Africa have jointly managed the project with key technical staff from both companies involved in the implementation of the solution. This implementation will allow UNEXcor and its stakeholders to keep up with the latest connectivity technology, while cost-effectively managing the current multi-protocol environment."
Concludes Roper: "Comparex Africa Networks provided us with the best technical options, backed by reliable support and technical skills. Added to this, their professional approach were the main reasons UNEXcor contracted Comparex Africa Networks` services. The move towards IP integration positions UNEXcor to better service the bond market, and to offer services to other financial markets, using technology that supports multiple protocol connectivity."
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Comparex Africa Networks is the networking division of Comparex Africa, SA`s leading provider of competitive, innovative and flexible business solutions based on information and communication technology. Comparex Africa Networks has become the foremost network systems integrator and solutions provider in South Africa. It has established an enviable track record in providing world-leading infrastructure solutions encompassing both the wide and local area environs.
Comparex Africa Networks` direct representation of the world`s top network product manufacturers enables it to provide the most appropriate technology and design to meet the customer`s business requirements. Comparex Africa Networks actively supplies competitive and innovative solutions to diverse industries such as finance, retail, insurance, telecommunications, manufacture, travel, utilities and government services.
With a support organisation spanning some 23 locations throughout Southern Africa, Comparex Africa Networks has the capability to service and maintain the computer networks of companies in all market segments supporting differing geographical and service level requirements. This extensive support organisation and the sophisticated Customer Care Centre enable the outsourcing of network services, such as network management, network operations and maintenance, and bandwidth management.
UNEXcor settles transactions valued in excess of R10 trillion per annum, and has settled timeously on a daily basis since electronic settlement was introduced in 1995.
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