It�s Show Time! Communications Solutions�
EXPO Hits D.C.
This month�s Communications
Solutions� EXPO (formerly CTI EXPO) promises to be quite an event.
On Wednesday April 26th, thousands upon thousands of decision makers
(service providers, resellers, developers, as well as enterprise users)
will gather at the Washington, D.C. Convention Center to witness the
latest in Internet telephony and next-generation communications and call
center/CRM solutions.
Produced by Technology Marketing Corporation (publisher of this
magazine), Communications
Solutions EXPO has earned its fine reputation as a truly remarkable
venue to compare and purchase the latest products and services as well as
its reputation as one of the best educational conferences in the industry.
As always, Communications Solutions EXPO will feature a wealth of free
attractions on the show floor as well as the only conference program
designed by the editors of Internet Telephony�, Communications
Solutions�, and C@LL Center CRM Solutions� magazines and
the engineers of TMC Labs�.
Yet again, the show promises to feature the best of the technologies
and services revolutionizing the voice and data worlds. To that end, here�s
a partial list of the attractions and conferences, as well as the Internet
telephony-specific vendors you�ll want to see in Washington. Remember,
the show opens with a pre-conference day of education on April 26th, and
the Exhibit Hall and main conference will take place on April 27th and
28th. Don�t miss out! Get the answers you need at Communications
Solutions EXPO.
FREE LIVE ATTRACTIONS
ConvergeNET
A live, on-site network serving as the multivendor interoperability
proving ground, showcasing IP telephony standards compliance. This will be
the industry leading third time that a TMC-produced EXPO is hosting this
Internet telephony interoperability event.
This year�s ConvergeNET looks to feature interoperable products and
services from the following companies: Active Voice, Aspect
Communications, Cisco Systems, elemedia, e-Voice, GTE Internetworking,
iFace.com, Motorola, Net2Phone, Nortel Networks, Nx Networks, PakNetX,
Picazo Communications, Praxon, Quicknet Technologies, Quintum, ShelCad
Communications, Star-
Vox, Tundo, and Vsys.
Next-Gen Telco In A Booth
Explore the nuts and bolts of an actual ITSP (Internet Telephony Service
Provider) complete with profit-generating enhanced services.
Internet Phone Center
Through a special sponsorship arrangement between TMC and Quicknet
Technologies, all attendees at Communications Solutions EXPO Spring
2000 will be able to make FREE International phone calls at the show�s
Internet Phone Center.
The Internet Phone Center is a special area of the show floor equipped
with multimedia PCs and the latest Internet telephony gear from Quicknet.
Visitors to the Center will be able to make Internet phone calls anywhere
in the world, utilizing the networks of a variety of ITSPs (Internet
Telephony Service Providers). The Center will provide attendees with the
unparalleled ability to compare the quality and service of each ITSP �
while enjoying FREE global calling.
Your Remote Office
Take advantage of next-generation communications server technology
to redirect your phone and fax calls to this special area of the show
floor, which has been set aside as your personal workspace. You will also
be able to conduct conference calls, receive voice mail, send faxes, and
check e-mail. This unique Communications Solutions EXPO attraction is
sponsored by Interactive
Intelligence.
Live, Web-Enabled Multimedia Call Center
A live, on-site working call center employing the latest Web-enabling
technologies and applications. At its previous outing this call center
made over 10,000 customer contacts in two days. (Sponsored by CellIT)
Nortel Networks� Succession Trailer
See the latest next-generation network technology from Nortel
Networks on display in a unique 40' tractor-trailer, right on the show
floor!
First Time Event! Solutions Quest 2000
Find the solutions to your communications needs and win a great
prize at the same time! When you pick up your attendee information packet
in the registration area at the show, you will be given a Solutions Quest
2000 entry card. Visit each attraction listed on the card, and collect
your stamp from each one. After your card is full, fill out the form and
drop it off in the entry bin, located in the lower Exhibit Hall. Prizes
include digital cameras, Handspring PDAs, and more! The drawings will take
place at about 4:15 p.m. local time in the registration area on Friday,
April 28, 2000. Please note: You must be present to win! Of course, this
is in addition to the other terrific prizes that will be available to
Communications Solutions EXPO most notably a new Jeep Cherokee, sponsored
by Cincom.
Other free, live attractions at the show will include the following: a
Live CRM Showcase; Communications Solutions� Live Office of the Future;
Consultants� Corner; A TelePost-sponsored Messaging Center; and a Job
Fair and Career Resource Center.
LEARNING CENTERS
Communications Solutions EXPO Learning Centers are technology-specific �no
sales, no hype� areas where you can compare and evaluate cutting-edge
communications solutions from the industry leaders. In Washington,
attendees will have six Learning Centers to choose from, including:
IP Telephony Testing Tools: With the perpetual explosion
of the Internet and the continuing standardization of the IP protocol, new
breeds of testing tools have arrived. Now, you can test how well a VoIP
call performs, whether you�re evaluating latency, PSQM scores, or other
important voice tests. There are even Fax over IP testing tools available.
Leading companies, such as Hammer Technologies, Ameritec, Zarak, and
Hewlett Packard/Agilent, will test many aspects of IP telephony
functionality. In this Learning Center, there will be enough diversity for
users of any level to get a feel for this latest testing technology.
Next-Gen Wireless: IP is already becoming the universal
wireless networking standard, and it also won�t be long until Palm-based
products merge with cell phones. In addition to telephony, IP wireless
devices are becoming more and more sophisticated. Soon, they will allow
you access to e-mail, the Net, GPS, a database of contacts, and myriad
other features. Come see how far wireless technology will take us in its
next generation of products.
In addition, you can visit four other unique Learning Centers,
covering: Application Service Providers (ASPs); e-Sales/e-Service; Speech
Recognition; and TAPI 3.0.
UNBEATABLE CONFERENCE TRACKS
Internet Telephony Solutions: This pre- and main-conference track examines
the latest IP telephony technology and applications as well as all the
essential selection and implementation considerations you need to make
before deploying this revolutionary technology. Sessions cover IP faxing;
achieving high quality of service; standards and interoperability;
gatekeepers and H.323; broadband options; video over IP; current and
future trends and innovations; and more!
Next-Gen Service Provider Solutions: This main conference
track is designed for existing service providers � telco, IXC, CLEC,
RBOC, ISP, PTT, etc. � who are looking to offer the latest enhanced
services to their existing subscribers, as well as for prospective startup
ITSPs (Internet telephony service providers), ASPs (Application Service
Providers) and ICPs (Integrated Communications Providers). A wealth of
information and topics will be covered, including billing and provisioning
strategies and solutions; VPNs; delivering enhanced services; next-gen
network devices from the edge to the core; last-mile solutions and
opportunities; and deploying a state-of-the-art NOC (network operations
center).
E-Sales/E-Service Solutions: This special pre-conference
track explores issues vital to the care and servicing of customers in the
exploding e-commerce sector. Sessions focus on Web-enabling the call
center; employing self-help and interactive software solutions;
implementing e-commerce security; designing Web sites with the customer
experience in mind; and using customer feedback to improve sales.
Wireless Solutions: This special pre-conference track
explores the hot new world of wireless data, including mobile IP-based
applications and services, 3G (third-generation) wireless technology,
wireless local loops, and Bluetooth and the wireless Personal Area Network
(PAN).
Communications Developer Solutions: This special
pre-conference track covers key areas that pertain to communications
system and application development. Sessions will cover selecting
application generators; choosing the right DSP-based resource boards;
testing issues and methodologies; CT Media development; and industrial
computers.
Microsoft Communications Development: This special
conference track focuses on how developers familiar with Microsoft�s
array of software solutions can become full partners in the communications
revolution, designing applications that will provide added value,
regardless of the underlying infrastructure. Learn how to develop an array
of solutions, including unified messaging, collaborative computing, video
conferencing, e-commerce, VoIP, PBX/ACD, wireless data, cable telephony,
and Windows CE-based PDA solutions. Topics to be discussed include issues
surrounding the impact of Windows 2000, TAPI 3.0, Windows NT-based
communications features, new development tools, and the evolution of
Windows CE.
There will be four other conference tracks focusing on CTI Development,
Call Center/Human Resources, CRM Solutions, and Call Center Solutions.
CHECK OUT THESE VENDORS
Following is a brief description of just a small sample of the hundreds of
vendors that will be exhibiting at Communications Solutions EXPO Spring
2000.
3Com
3Com will be showcasing the award-winning NBX 100 Communications System, a
business telephone system that delivers quality and productivity: Unified
Messaging/IMAP4, CTI/TAPI, AA, easy-to-use Web browser-based remote
administration, call center solutions, H.323, T1, IP, multi-line or
analog. The converged infrastructure reduces the cost, and increases the
power of your scalable, multi-site voice/data network.
Artisoft
Artisoft will be demonstrating its award-winning TeleVantage � a
PC-based phone system designed specifically for small to medium-sized
businesses. With TeleVantage, you have all the functionality of a
stand-alone PBX, plus unprecedented call management that lets you maximize
your productivity while controlling costs. TeleVantage provides
intelligent call management and messaging features for up to 96 trunk
lines and 264 extensions.
AudioCodes
AudioCodes Ltd. designs, develops, and markets enabling technologies and
products for voice over packet networks. AudioCodes� product line
includes signal processor chips, VoIP communication boards, communications
software, and VoIP media gateway modules for OEM customers. For more
information on AudioCodes, please visit the company�s Web site.
CellIT
CellIT, Inc., is a leading developer of software to automate multimedia
customer interactions. When installed on an industry standard server, the
CellIT flagship product, CCPRO, offers a comprehensive solution for
managing all forms of customer interactions, including inbound and
outbound phone calls, e-commerce, and other Web-based interactions, faxes,
messaging, and voice response. The company commenced operations in 1994
and is based in Miami, Florida.
Cirilium
Cirilium Corporation provides turnkey service creation solutions to
service providers offering Internet Protocol-based telephony.
Phoenix-based Cirilium is a privately held joint venture between Hypercom
Corp. and Inter-Tel, Inc. Fusing carrier-class gateway platforms, call
processing, IVR, and application-oriented technology, Cirilium is among
the largest IP telephony infrastructure providers with presence in over 80
countries.
Cisco Systems
Cisco Systems, Inc., is the worldwide leader in networking for the
Internet. Cisco hardware, software, and service offerings are used to
create Internet solutions so that individuals, companies, and countries
have seamless access to information regardless of differences in time and
place. For more information, visit their Web site.
e-Voice Communications
e-Voice Communications, a provider of innovative voice mail systems,
develops computer telephony applications that leverage the company�s
strong background in unified messaging technology. The company delivers
its products to the market through computer telephony resellers and NT
system integrators. The company was founded in 1991 as OAsys Technology
and is privately held. Further information is available at the company�s
Web site.
eOn Communications
eOn Communications Corporation designs, develops, and markets
next-generation, Linux-based communications servers and software that
integrate and manage voice, e-mail, and Internet communications for
customer contact centers and general business applications. eOn
Communications Corporation helps enterprises communicate more effectively
with customers, convert inquiries into sales, and increase customer
satisfaction and loyalty.
FastComm Communications
FastComm manufactures advanced WAN/-LAN/Global network routing and
switching equipment, controllers, and processors for IBM and Unisys
environments, Internet access products, and related networking devices.
FastComm is a total network solutions provider specializing in
Voice/Video/Data/Fax over IP and Frame Relay.
Hammer Technologies
Hammer Technologies is a leader in Computer Telephony Integration (CTI)
application testing. Hammer�s Windows NT-based family of products
includes the Integrated Tele-communications (Hammer IT), LoadBlaster, and
the Hammer IP. Hammers provide a complete solution for load, feature,
regression, and in-service testing of integrated telecommunications
systems and services. System test capabilities include voice, data, T1,
E1, ISDN, WWW, TCP/IP, LAN/WAN, SS7, facsimile, speech recognition, and
other related technologies.
Inter-Tel
A leader in the IP telephony industry, Inter-Tel � �The Voice of the
Internet� � offers complete IP telephony solutions for carriers and
corporations. NextGen service providers can benefit from Vocal�Net�s
scalable, carrier-grade solutions and software packages. Any size business
can save on voice and fax with InterPrise products. Plus, Inter-Tel.net
offers low-cost long-distance to everyone.
MCK Communications
MCK�s remote voice and data solutions provide off-premises workers with
seamless connectivity to corporate PBXs and data networks, including
four-digit dialing, intercom, conferencing, voice mail, and full ACD
features. MCK�s products include single- and multi-user remote and
gateway products for analog, ISDN, xDSL, cable, and T1.
Merlot Communications
Merlot Communication, Inc., is a new generation networking company with a
unique product, the Merlot MAGNUM Applications and Services Platform
(ASP), that � for the first time � enables service providers to
cost-effectively deliver advanced applications and lucrative value-added
services to small- and mid-sized business customers.
Millennium Teleservices
Millennium Teleservices provides world-class outbound, inbound, and Web
interactive services at over 30 call centers nationwide. The company�s
Web services are provided through Aspect Customer Relation-
ship Portals offering full e-commerce support and Web functionality,
including call-back button, live chat, and voice over IP telephony.
MIND
MIND supplies solutions for billing, accounting, and management for
Internet telephony, switches, Internet-based services, and data. With over
100 customers worldwide, MIND has the largest installed base in IP
telephony billing. MIND was the first to release a real-time VoIP billing
and customer care product integrated with major gateway and gatekeeper
vendors. For information visit the company�s Web site.
Natural MicroSystems
Natural MicroSystems provides IP-centric software development tools,
hardware, and engineering consulting services to suppliers of
communications equipment. The company designs, manufactures, and markets
integrated hardware and software products and services that enable its
customers to develop and implement high-value telecommunications solutions
that operate globally. Natural MicroSystems� state-of-the-art
technologies are based on open, standards-based, PC platforms,
collectively referred to as Open Telecommunications.
Nortel Networks
Nortel Networks is a global leader in telephony, data, wireless, and
wireline solutions for the Internet. Today, Nortel Networks is creating a
high-performance Internet that is more reliable and faster than ever
before. It is redefining the economics and quality of networking and the
Internet through unified networks that promise a new era of collaboration,
communications and commerce. Nortel Networks has offices and facilities in
Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Caribbean and Latin America, the Middle
East, Africa, and the United States.
Nx Networks
Nx Networks is a worldwide provider of secure Internet telephony and data
networking solutions. Dedicated to delivering a high-performance, scalable
product suite, the company serves today�s voice/data convergence needs,
while anticipating tomorrow�s demands. Nx Networks is pioneering
next-generation softswitch and intelligent secure technologies that will
simplify networking setups and expand service offerings at enormous cost
savings. More information can be found in the company�s Web site.
Quicknet Technologies
Quicknet Technologies has been a leading innovator in low-density Internet
telephony hardware and software since 1995. Quicknet Technologies is a
privately held company based in San Francisco specializing in the design
and manufacture of low-density Internet telephony products for small
businesses. Sold in over 170 countries around the world, Quicknet�s
products enable users to effectively boost their Internet telephone call
quality and ease-of-use and are available to resellers directly through
Quicknet. The products are available to end customers through dealers,
distributors, and catalog superstores.
ShelCad Communications
ShelCad develops innovative CTI, Internet telephony, and VoIP products.
ShelCad�s vanguard products link PCs to any analog phone to support IP
calls and value-added features. ShelCad�s plug-and-play CTI solutions
are unique in the market for integrating existing networks, computers, and
the PSTN with standard telephone sets. ShelCad�s technological
developments include VoIP, Network CTI, PCMCIA, Ethernet, and ASIC
products.
Sound Advantage
Sound Advantage is the producer of SANDi, the Sound Advantage Natural
Dialog Interface, a voice-controlled user interface to PBX, voice mail,
IVR, and e-mail. SANDi saves time and money by helping people reduce the
time it takes to get connected to the correct party or information �
without long menus, simply by using your voice. SANDi was awarded �Product
of The Year� from Communications Solutions Magazine in January 2000. For
more information visit the company�s Web site.
TEK DigiTel Corporation
TEK DigiTel provides integrated access devices (IADs)
combining voice over IP, routing, and PBX technology. The V-server, Egate
and dual Ethernet CPE gateway/routers can connect via analog dial, ISDN,
cable modem, and DSL services. Pronto service postage will be on display
at Communications Solutions EXPO.
Tundo
Headquartered in Cambridge, MA, with sales offices in the U.S. and U.K.
and research and development facilities in Israel, Tundo builds and
provides open network telephony systems designed to free organizations to
reduce costs and create new business models while extending their
investment in legacy telecommunications infrastructures.
VIVE Synergies, Inc./ECO Carrier
Networks
VIVE Synergies, Inc. designs, develops, produces, markets, and supports a
suite of voice and fax over IP systems for Internet fax and telephony in
worldwide markets; an extensive line of automated least cost routing
dialers and dialing systems; as well as supervised PayPhones and automated
systems for Public Telephone Center or Call Shop operations.
VoCal Technologies
VoCAL Technologies� mission is to be a full-service provider of
telecommunication and networking solutions to OEM customers and
integrators who require high-performance tele/computer and networking
solutions at a price that can be afforded with today�s tight budgets.
Fitting the customer�s needs, VoCAL effectively provides solutions
beginning with a concept definition through to prototyping, product
design, testing, manufacture, and warranty. All this notwithstanding, the
�quick-to-market� and �low cost� concepts are underpinned by the
guaranteed open-ended support afforded by VoCAL to the customer in order
to meet tailored specifications even on an accelerated schedule.
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