For the demonstration at PCS '97 in Dallas (September 10-12, Booth #13209), EXNET Connect integrates Excel's 1.2 Gbps fiber-based Expandable Switching System (EXS) -- supporting up to 30,000 non-blocking ports -- with SCSA-based voice processing resources. The Distributed Software Architecture, residing on EXNET Connect and on the EXNET Controller card in each switching node, enables every node on the EXS ring to have direct access to these voice resources. See the diagram (left, low and high resolution images, loading in succession) for an illustration. EXNET Connect will also support MVIP and H.100 voice processing resources.

EXNET Connect capitalizes on Excel's Distributed Software Architecture to gain access to its open Application Programming Interface (API) and unique Programmable Protocol Language (PPL) that are the hallmarks of Excel programmable switches. "We believe that EXNET Connect establishes another milestone in open switching architectures," said Bob Madonna, President of Excel. "By tightly integrating voice and multi-media resources with programmable switching, the system becomes a distributed, scalable, integrated call management switching platform that is CO-ready. It results in lower costs and reduced time to market for developers and service providers, since the integration of switching and voice resources is already accomplished through Excel's Distributed Software Architecture. And it provides greater flexibility for developers to offer integrated services using the programmability of the Excel switch. EXNET Connect combines the best of programmable switching -- scalability, programmability, high performance and high reliability -- with industry-standard voice and other service resources. We think that these capabilities create a strong business case for EXNET Connect as a new standard in open connectivity for call management in the public network."

Distributed Software Architecture

The most important feature of EXNET Connect is its use of Excel's software design. By participating in a distributed software environment designed for high reliability, service resources can support call processing over the EXNET ring, with direct access to and from the switching nodes... delivering systems that address the rigorous reliability requirements of carriers and service providers worldwide. The integrated resources take advantage of Excel's open software environment. Excel's Application Programming Interface (API) supports a rich message set that offers the highest levels of programmability in the industry. Excel's Programmable Protocol Language (PPL) enables developers to implement call processing functions between the switching and voice resources. This capability can be used to bridge industry software standards used in computer telephony and multi-media applications such as ECTF and IMTC. PPL also enables Excel's partners to adapt intelligent switching applications to worldwide standards and protocols both quickly and easily.

Integrated High Performance Switching

Call processing systems integrating Excel's products possess the critical attributes that are in demand from network providers worldwide. Open programmable switching platforms from Excel provide high reliability, scalability and cost-efficiency required by service providers. The use of advanced technology and open design techniques enable Excel to work with multiple vendors to extend existing industry standards and set new standards for open call management in the public network.

About Excel. Excel Switching Corporation designs and manufactures a family of open architecture, programmable switches used in a wide variety of telecommunications applications in over 50 countries. The company markets its products through systems integrators, application developers, OEM's and service providers for deployment worldwide. Founded in 1988, Excel is based in Hyannis, MA.

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