Marconi adds Sydney testing centre for carriers

29.11.2004
Von Michael Crawford

Marconi Corp. PLC has added a testing center for voice, video and data applications to its North Sydney-based Broadband Center of Excellence to assist carriers preparing for next generation network services.

The company has also upgraded its access node, called Access Hub to allow carriers to alter access strategies without physically redesigning the access network.

Marconi managing director Paul Butcher said reports that voice is dead are overstated, because it is what generates most revenue for carriers. Marconi will provide opportunities and trials to help local customers explore the potential for multi-service access networks.

"These new technologies enable [carriers] to deploy a compelling offering of triple-play services (voice, video and data) to their customer base, while actively contributing to the reduction of both churn and operating costs," Butcher said.

"The telecommunications market in the Asia-Pacific region is undergoing a major shift towards next-generation networks that will let carriers deploy new IP-based, revenue-generating products and services at low cost.

What matters to users now is the additional level of service they get through combined video, voice and data, Butcher said, adding that Australians will not be put off by paying extra money for additional services like video and data, though voice will still be a major part of carrier services.

Citing Sensis as an example, Butcher said: "Telstra is repositioning itself as a content provider - it has integrated a database with GPS positioning and users are now paying extra for that information," Butcher said.

"The service is not about supplying video, voice and data but selling information and what matters to the user, now, is the level of service they get."