TMCnet recently had the opportunity to speak with Carlos Sanchez (News - Alert), vice president of sales for the Americas at REDCOM. Our discussion highlighted on the success of the implementation of softswitch as an IP communications solution for customers.
REDCOM (News - Alert) has provided high quality equipment to their customers for over 30 years. REDCOM products include public and private network systems, ISDN systems, legacy systems, and IP and VoIP based systems.
REDCOM’s SLICE 2100, is more than just a softswitch. It is a converged VoIP solution delivering interoperable communications to public and private networks. The SLICE 2100 functions as both a softswitch and gateway, delivering up to 2,000 IP registered subscribers per unit.
Below is the interview TMC (News - Alert) conducted with Carlos Sanchez of REDCOM.
TMC: Carlos, we hear that SLICE 2100 is a converged IP communications solution that is much more than just a softswitch. What is the number one reason it is so unique?
CS: The SLICE 2100 is so unique because it delivers a comprehensive IP migration solution through its integrated With SLICE 2100 there are no expensive server boxes, no separate gateway boxes, and no separate VoIP software to load and configure. SIP Call Controller, Media Gateway (News - Alert), Media Gateway Controller, and provides seamless VoIP and TDM interoperability.
TMC: Can you tell me how it is an improvement on earlier products?
CS: The previous SLICE 2100 version was powerful, but the new Version 4 enhances the SLICE 2100 capabilities by:
• Increasing SIP based VoIP registrations from 1,000 to 2,000 SIP subscribers (per unit)
• SNMP monitoring
· SIP trunks – to optimize your operating cost
· Built-In Compression – to manage bandwidth usage
• Centrex business line groups have been added (SIP and TDM) -for additional revenue stream
• Radio Line Interface Module – supports up to 2 radios per module
• Media Services Circuit Module – for additional media gateway capabilities
• Secure Device Module – supports secure communications
TMC: The SLICE 2100 Version 4 offers a number of enhanced SIP-based features -- which of these was in greatest demand?
CS: It is hard to say that one feature has more demand over the other. The enhanced capabilities provide flexibility for a wide array of applications. For example:
· Carrier-Grade Class 4/5 softswitch
· SIP to TDM Gateway
· Multi-protocol corporate networks
· Wireless/wireline network integration
· Emergency response
· Application Development
Each of these applications use a different set of features based on a specific network requirements. For instance, an ISP can start providing Voice over IP services and may require a few TDM trunks. The SLICE 2100 is perfectly fitted for this application because it allows you to start with 100 IP subscribers increasing these up to 2000 IP subscribers, use SIP trunks, a few T1 trunks and you are in business.
TMC: Can you tell me more about the new radio module?
CS: Radio users gain all the same benefits of a REDCOM system normally available to station users. This new module allows any
phone in the SLICE 2100 to dial out to a remote radio,or allows a radio to dial directly into the system and ring a phone, make an outside call, or call another remote radio system. This is a excellent application first responders. Local telephone companies can provide connectivity to local Emergency Services allowing full interoperability between radios, VoIP and analog lines.
TMC: Can you give me one or two examples of how this softswitch would solve real-world issues?
CS: The SLICE 2100 is so feature rich that provides the perfect solution for a ILEC or even a new ISP. For instance, an ISP can start providing Voice over IP services and may require a few TDM trunks. The SLICE 2100 is perfectly fitted for this application because it allows you to start with 100 IP subscribers increasing these up to 2000 IP subscribers, use SIP trunks, a few T1 trunks and you are in business
TMC: Finally Carlos, can you offer any closing comments on your experience with the Slice 2100?
CS: The SLICE 2100 is a converged TDM & IP communication platform that provides an easy migration path to IP. With its extensive SIP trunking capabilities, Service Providers are able to add other devices like wireless local loop systems. Migrating to IP is easy with the SLICE 2100, which works seamlessly converting existing customers to IP customers.
Stayed tuned for the podcast version of my interview with Carlos Sanchez exclusively on REDCOM’s Softswitch channel on TMCnet.
Stefanie Mosca is a Web editor for TMCnet. Previously she worked as a freelance copy editor for Digital Surgeons LLC. She holds a master's degree in journalism from Quinnipiac University and a bachelor's degree in communication from the University of New Haven. To read more of her articles, please visit her columnist page.
Edited by Stefanie Mosca