IP: The Common Language of Convergence
"Convergence" has been one of the more abused buzzwords in
recent memory. For years, we've been hearing that technologies
are converging - televisions, video games, and computers are
supposed to be "converging" into the same device, for example.
One area where the hype is being displaced by reality is
the convergence of multiple systems on IP (internet protocol)
communications. Not long ago, many different types of cables
or other links might be required inside a building or between
remote locations to handle multiple communication needs. Now,
such diverse communications media as data, voice, security,
video monitoring, etc., are being combined into single medium:
IP. The same technology that has powered the Internet and
most internal data networks is now being pressed into service
as the single workhorse of business communications.
According to Ron Davis,
CompStar Technologies Account Executive, the long-term promise
of IP Convergence is finally being fulfilled. "Firms are implementing
IP cameras and IP phones. This eliminates long runs of dedicated
wiring for each device, and makes it far easier to access
the data in different locations." Security camera video, for
example, can be easily viewed not only on an in-house monitor,
but by a security company in another location or even from
a manager's home PC. And if a network connection is available
nearby, there's no reason to install costly cable runs to
add a telephone extension or video camera.
Similarly, IP-based VPN (virtual private network) connections
are being used to connect remote branches. "In the past, an
expensive dedicated line might have been used to connect a
remote store or sales office to a headquarters location,"
says Davis. "Now, an inexpensive DSL connection allows the
branch to establish a secure link for both data and voice
communications."
Videoconferencing is another application that is using IP
technology to cut the cost of permanent leased connections.
"Companies want to cut travel time and expense for meetings
and training, and they are finding video conferencing a low-cost
alternative," says Davis. He notes that IP-based setups allow
the video to use existing network and internet connections
instead of requiring dedicated cabling or leased lines.
A related convergence area is unified messaging, in which
a user can see all messages - e-mail, voice mail, and fax
- in one place for easy retrieval.
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CompStar Technologies is a leading Indiana-based provider of networking, technology, and communications services. With offices in Mishawaka (serving South Bend, Elkhart, Warsaw, Michigan City, Fort Wayne, Niles, St. Joseph, and Benton Harbor, Michigan) and Indianapolis, CompStar provides network design / support, network security, wireless networking, business telephone systems, VoIP (voice over IP), and cctv / video surveillance systems. CompStar is the Technology Division of Direct Line Communications, headquartered in Mishawaka, Indiana.
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