TIA Tests Interoperability

MILTON KEYNES, U.K. -- To respond to end-user concern about product compatibility issues when delivering voice services over data networks, the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) is working with BTexact Technologies, BT¹s advanced research and technology business, to launch an Interoperability Test Centre where independent engineers will assess the ability of new-wave convergence equipment to interwork correctly.Fully supported by the Communications Managers Association (CMA), this unique initiative is a result of the efforts of the TIA Convergence Sector Interest Group (SIG/1/1), who cite compatibility concerns by end-users as one of the main barriers to voice and data convergence.The laboratory, which will be operational by early autumn 2002, will be based at BTexact Technologies¹ Adastral Park headquarters in Ipswich and will house equipment of all participating TIA members.At launch, the laboratory will concentrate on assessing new-wave convergence IP-PBX solutions for conformance to international VoIP standards such as H.323 and SIP and their ability to interwork with other vendor¹s products in end-to-end networks. Later in 2002, it is anticipated that the scope of the laboratory will broaden to include interoperability with legacy equipment and to explore compatibility with other leading IP-PBX products in the market. This will identify the range of features and functionality that can be supported when inter-working between vendors.Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA)BTexact Technologies