Distributel Switches to Tekelec

PLANO, Texas -- Tekelec (Nasdaq: TKLC), a leading developer of telecommunication products for next-generation fixed, mobile, and packet networks, announced today that Distributel, a Canadian provider of competitive long-distance services, has selected SanteraOne for a now- and next-generation multi-switch deployment. Distributel’s purchase of four SanteraOne switches enables the company to eliminate its dependence on telco-based switching. As a result, Distributel anticipates significant network cost reductions and the ability to offer new services.

“With the business challenge of becoming a switch-based long-distance carrier, Distributel requires technology that can seamlessly migrate traffic onto new equipment transparently to our subscribers. In addition, we need the ability to offer legacy and next-generation feature-rich services in both the long-distance and local telecommunications markets,” said Don Cavanagh, vice president of telecommunications for Distributel. “Distributel selected the SanteraOne product after an extensive review of competing platforms. Key criteria for choosing SanteraOne were the switches’ high density and associated economies, the facility for program control of the switches to accommodate customer applications, and Santera’s responsiveness and commitment to making its platform work for Distributel. SanteraOne was a clear leader in all of these criteria.”

Distributel, a 15-year veteran and pioneer in the Canadian competitive long-distance market, is using SanteraOne to consolidate voice traffic from existing switches in two provinces, as well as to migrate voice traffic from leased facilities to its new next-generation Tekelec equipment. A key benefit of SanteraOne is its ability to make these network changes without service interruption or noticeable changes in service for end users.

“We're hearing from the marketplace that one of the most critical requirements in the latest network infrastructure is the technology's ability to work with networks right now, as well as those in the future,” said Kevin Mitchell, Directing Analyst, Service Provider Networks and Next Gen Voice with Infonetics Research. “As more and more Canadian carriers look to next-gen voice solutions, they're going to need switches that are flexible and scalable supplied by vendors who are willing to work with the carriers to meet their specific needs.”

Fred Lax, chief executive officer of Tekelec, added, “The amount of subscriber churn in today’s Canadian service provider market calls for carriers to be innovative yet loyal to subscribers by making smart technology decisions. By installing SanteraOne switches, Distributel is doing just that. Forward-thinking carriers such as this have helped to make Tekelec a player in the Canadian switching marketplace. Additionally, Distributel now also has the capability to bring this same level of quality and innovation to its new local customers. Distributel’s deployment of SanteraOne is representative of Tekelec’s commitment to a growing customer base in Canada.”

Tekelec Inc.