New AT&T Video Gateway Enables Videoconferences Across Platforms
Basking Ridge, NJ – AT&T today announced availability of an AT&T
Video Gateway (AVG) service that enables companies using Integrated Services Digital
Network (ISDN) and Internet Protocol (IP) network technology for videoconferences
to easily – and without a major capital investment – interconnect participants
on both platforms.
AT&T Video Gateway service is a cost-effective solution that helps a business
manage a diverse videoconferencing network without having to upgrade its existing
videoconferencing system. Today, most businesses cannot complete videoconference
calls between ISDN and IP platforms, or between different IP platforms, without
investing in capital equipment that they must install and manage. AT&T’s
gateway node, resident in the AT&T Network, seamlessly provides the protocol
conversion between the H.320 ISDN-based video standard and the H.323 IP standard,
plus the call setup and routing necessary for proper call billing.
“The gateway helps businesses extend videoconferencing within and outside
their companies to enhance productivity and improve collaboration between employees,
customers and suppliers,” says Rene Marinich, AT&T director of videoconference
services. “With this service, businesses can future-proof their current
videoconferencing networks regardless of whether they’re using ISDN or
IP. AT&T Video Gateway service delivers an attractive package of capabilities,
including global connectivity, security features, ease of use and network management,
all with the reliability of the AT&T Network.”
The gateway service currently enables video endpoints to connect between circuit-switched
ISDN, the Internet and both Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) and AT&T Managed
Internet Services. Other IP services are being tested for connectivity certification.
The AVG works with all leading brands of ISDN- and IP-enabled video equipment
and PC-based software and cameras.
It enables three types of calls: (1) ISDN-to-IP point-to-point calls; (2) IP-to-IP
or IP-to-ISDN multipoint calls, such as calls between companies; (3) IP-to-IP
point-to-point calls within a company. For both point-to-point and multipoint
IP and ISDN calls with the AVG, no port charges apply; only per-minute charges.
Other features and benefits include simple 10-digit dialing – no additional
access codes – from ISDN or IP endpoints. A portable “700” conference
number allows callers to initiate a videoconference from almost anywhere in
the world. A videoconference host can initiate a reserved or on-demand call
from an easy-to use Web site featuring simple online symbols to set up the call.
Directory features, such as a “favorites” list and a “recently
called” list, are easily accessed on the Web. And a Multipoint Call Unit
adds a level of security in ensuring that only authorized individuals can access
a videoconference.
The AT&T Video Gateway service adds to AT&T’s portfolio of videoconference
services that includes an Executive Video Conferencing Service for customers
who want call set-up, monitoring and slide presentation support throughout their
call sessions; a “reservationless” AT&T Video On-Demand Service
that lets registered users launch video calls whenever they need to without
a reservation; and a set of online tools to help companies schedule video rooms
and manage their video resources.
More information about the AT&T Video Gateway service and promotional offers
for the service are available at www.att.com/isdn or by calling 866 634-ISDN
(866 634-4736). All of AT&T’s audio and videoconferencing services
are described at www.att.com/virtualmeetings
About AT&T
AT&T www.att.com is among the world’s premier voice, video and data
communications companies, serving consumers, businesses and government. Backed
by the research and development capabilities of AT&T Labs, the company runs
the world’s largest, most sophisticated communications network and is the
largest cable operator in the U.S. The company is a leading supplier of data
and Internet services for businesses and offers outsourcing, consulting and
networking-integration to large businesses.
For more information, reporters may contact:
Jean Hurt – AT&T
908-658-7928 (office)
908-672-6855 (cell)
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