LONDON -- Marconi Corporation plc (London: MONI and NASDAQ: MRCIY) today announced that Magyar Telekom, formerly known as Matáv, the incumbent telecommunications and Internet Service Provider in Hungary, will upgrade its existing Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH) transport network and ServiceOn management system. This allows Magyar Telekom to introduce Marconi’s next-generation multiservice optical platforms, including the OMS1664, OMS840 and SMA1/4UC, making it possible for the operator to deliver new services over its existing infrastructure.

The contract will enable Magyar Telekom to add high-value data services, such as Ethernet, to its service portfolio, whilst protecting revenue streams from traditional Time Division Multiplexing (TDM) leased-line packages. By utilising Marconi’s multiservice, next-generation SDH portfolio, Magyar Telekom will achieve significant operational cost savings through network simplification. The contract also includes a three year maintenance agreement for their existing optical network.

The dual SDH and data bus architecture of the OMS1664 allows for a quick and cost-effective evolution from TDM-based traffic to Ethernet and Internet Protocol dominated traffic. Although it will originally be deployed as a cross-connect, the OMS1664 can eventually provide Magyar Telekom with a single platform that combines data communications with next-generation SDH and Wavelength Division Multiplexing technologies. Its flexibility provides simplified and cost-efficient network structures that can be adapted easily to satisfy future demands.

Magyar Telekom’s network edge can be equipped with Marconi's highly versatile SMA1/4UC, which is capable of supporting both Ethernet and Plesiochronous Digital Hierarchy services. The OMS840 is an economical multiservice customer-located device used to support mixed E1 (2Mbit/s) and Ethernet (10/100Mbit/s) interfaces.

“The contract will allow us to build on our reputation as Hungary’s number one public network operator and enable us to continue to provide our customers with the very latest in new services,” said Peter Janeck, chief technology officer, Magyar Telekom. “Leveraging our nationwide network with Marconi’s next-generation optical platforms, the existing data and voice products will be able to run alongside new Ethernet services. This will allow us to expand our customer base and continue to deliver high levels of service to our existing customers at the same time.”

Through local partners Montel and CTDI Hungary, Marconi will also provide Magyar Telekom with a comprehensive, ongoing network management service that includes installation and commissioning and repairs. Marconi will undertake maintenance support, NMS upgrades and consultancy. The new multiservice delivery network and existing SMA equipment will be managed by Marconi’s ServiceOn network management system.

“Our optical equipment and network management expertise provides service providers like Magyar Telekom with a low-risk, low-cost solution for the provisioning of next-generation, revenue-enhancing services,” said Stefan Kindt, managing director and CEO of Marconi Communications GmbH. “We believe in setting up long-term partnerships with all our customers, providing them with customised solutions that answer their business requirements and give them a competitive advantage in their markets.”

Marconi Corp. plc