Tekelec Announces IP7 Sentinel to Maintain and Monitor Next-Generation Networks

Extending its recently announced IP7 product line, Tekelec (Calabasas, CA)announced the features and capabilities of IP7 Sentinel. IP7 Sentinel enables service providers to monitor, maintain, and ensure the reliability of telecommunication services implemented across traditional Signaling System 7 (SS7)-based Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTNs) and Internet Protocol (IP)-based converged voice and data networks.

IP7 Sentinel includes network surveillance capabilities and fault-management functions such as problem simulation, analysis, and resolution verification. Network surveillance features alert users of abnormal events occurring in all layers of SS7 and IP telephony protocols as well as in Personal Communications Services protocols.

The system automatically detects service-effecting events in real time and notifies users of those events. With the unique combination of passive network monitoring and proactive network testing capabilities, the IP7 Sentinel system enables both problem detection and problem resolution within next-generation converged networks -- from a single platform.

"IP7 Sentinel helps next-generation and converged network service providers comply with traditional telephony quality-of-service and reliability standards by giving them the kind of network-wide visibility traditional network operators have had --from the transport layer to the service layer,'' explained Danny Parker, vice president and general manager of Tekelec's Intelligent Network Diagnostics division. "It supplies carriers with critical information about their network services performance -- regardless of the type of network over which the services are deployed.''

IP7 Sentinel simultaneously monitors SS7 signaling traffic on traditional PSTNs and monitors signaling and IP telephony traffic on packet-oriented, converged networks. The system also serves as a network application platform, enabling the deployment of applications such as those that deliver quality of service and usage measurements, fraud management, and billing verification.

Tekelec 26580 West Agoura Road, Calabasas, CA 91302. Phone: 818-880-5656; Fax: 818-880-6993