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TDM over IP
To run T1 traffic over a new Gigabit Ethernet network
RAD's TDMoIP gateways extend T1 circuits transparently over the Gigabit Ethernet network, utilizing the existing PBX to deliver voice without compromising quality or features
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Maintains all T1 functionality
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Improves quality of video transmissions
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Simplicity of the solution boosts use of technology in the classroom
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Low cost
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Scalable
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The Elizabeth Forward school district is definitely moving forward when it comes to technology. Located in the scenic suburbs of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, this typical U.S. district comprised of seven schools recently set out in search of a simpler, higher bandwidth and more cost effective alternative to its existing ATM/OC-3 and Voice/T1 network.
TDMoIP – 1/12th the Cost of VoIP
The monthly savings on service provider fees are certainly significant and the additional bandwidth really improves video quality.
Mary Beth Wiseman
Director of Technology, Elizabeth Frow and School District
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Elizabeth Forward set their sights on a Gigabit Ethernet backbone since this would vastly simplify their network and deliver enough bandwidth for video streaming, videoconferencing and surveillance systems, and provide high speed data services and Internet access. Finding an alternative to their T1 lines proved more challenging. Initially, they investigated a VoIP solution with the help of Avaya. However, they quickly realized that such a solution would require complicated and expensive upgrades to the existing PBX system, including module replacement and new software purchases. In addition, VoIP would have compromised features such as caller ID and resulted in less reliable recovery from power outages. Therefore, Avaya recommended RAD Data Communications' IPmux gateways based on RAD's TDM over IP (TDMoIP) technology. TDMoIP differs from VoIP in that it is a pure transport solution that extends T1 circuits transparently over IP. With the help of RAD partner Connectivity Communications, Elizabeth Forward implemented the TDMoIP solution – at less than one-twelfth the cost of a VoIP solution and without any loss in functionality or quality.
The biggest value is in the simplicity and scalability
of the new solution.
Mary Beth Wiseman
Director of Technology, Elizabeth Frow and School District
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The school district now runs TDMoIP over Gigabit Ethernet and is reaping multiple benefits over its previous network. "Although the monthly savings on service provider fees are certainly significant and the additional bandwidth really improves video quality, the biggest value is in the simplicity and scalability of the new solution," says Mary Beth Wiseman, Elizabeth Forward's Director of Technology. For example, the elimination of ATM put an end to the constant, frustrating compatibility problems that teachers encountered with the district's standard Macintosh computers. For the administrative staff, there is no longer the need for complex, static subnetting and routing between multiple ATM PVCs to support the various services. Teachers and students have also noticed improvements in video quality and now enjoy faster Internet connections, thanks to the increased bandwidth of Gigabit Ethernet.
Wiseman anticipates future network expansion. Additionally, the school district hopes to implement a "virtual classroom" opportunity in which homebound students can remotely connect directly into their classrooms to keep up with lessons. "We are certain that RAD's TDMoIP solution will handle both of these transitions with ease," affirms Wiseman.
