Telefonica Selects Cantata Converged Services Platforms to Enhance Network

NEEDHAM, Mass. -- With the implementation of new platforms, Spain-based telecommunications company Telefonica is taking steps closer to improving its VoIP capabilities and network structure, and increasing its revenue. Telefonica purchased 25 Excel CSP 2090 converged services platforms from Cantata Technologies, a provider of enabling technologies for IP-based communications applications. Use of the new platforms will allow Telefonica to make a more smooth transition from its current TDM networks to IP, by integrating protocols for IP, TDM, mobility, and IN.

The new platform will act as the primary voice resource for Telefonica’s already-established additional services, such as ring back tones, prepaid IVR, conferencing, customer care, and calling cards. The telecommunications company hopes the addition of the CSP 2090 will not only enhance revenue, but also expedite time-to-market and reduce costs, all while preserving investment in Telefonica’s existing network infrastructure.

"Excel’s CSP 2090 perfectly meets the demanding enabling infrastructure needs Telefónica required to fulfill its value-added service strategy," said Timothy L. Murray, chief executive officer, Cantata Technology, in a company-issued press release on July 18. "Today’s announcement is testimony to the value that Cantata and its partners offer service providers by bridging now generation networks with next generation networks to significantly enhance bottom-line revenue."

The announcement was made in conjunction with Cantata’s European distribution partner, Datatronics, a supplier of end-to-end solutions for the fixed and wireless markets.

"Cantata and Datatronics continue to benefit from a long-standing, productive partnership," said Oscar Gonzalez, director, sales and business development, Datatronics, in the same press release. "Cantata’s superior enabling communications product portfolio, combined with Datatronics’ local support, systems integration, and maintenance operations, represents an ideal solution for European service providers transitioning to all-VoIP environments."

Though the technology was implemented recently, Telefonica follows in the footsteps of other European-based telephony companies wishing to expand their VoIP networks within the continent. Other European providers with VoIP capabilities include the T-Online and United Internet.

According to In-Stat, a market research group, the number of VoIP subscribers is expected to exceed 256 million worldwide by 2009.