VoIP cut loose
Calgary network gear maker Wi-LAN Inc. in November announced a wireless VoIP system that integrates with its Ultima3 Fixed Wireless Access product series. The company said the wireless VoIP system can handle up to 4,800 business users or 7,200 residential users per base station. Wi-LAN said the product offers carrier-grade quality of service and easy installation, as well as smart routing features so data traffic doesn’t hinder voice traffic. Wi-LAN said the platform speaks to CLECs looking to provide alternative voice services, and carriers operating in under-served areas or developing nations.
Price chop in P.E.I.
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) recently approved Aliant Telecom Inc.’s request to reduce the price of Centrex telephone service for certain customers in Prince Edward Island. PEI companies using more than 2,500 lines should expect to pay the reduced price of $25.40 per month per line in two-year contracts, $25.20 in three-year contracts and $25 in five-year contracts, according to a CRTC document (Telecom Order 2003-431). Aliant argued in favour of the reduction as a response to “growing market pressure” from competition. For more information visit www.crtc.gc.ca.
Price floor changes
The CRTC is changing the price-floor safeguards debate procedure. The Commission in November said it would forgo an interim price floor regime in light of letters from telcos requesting a “consolidated” process, whereby the CRTC would create price floor rules only after a full discussion. The Commission extended the deadline for submissions to Jan. 30, 2004 as a result. In Telecom Public Notice 2003-8 the CRTC considered amending price floors for ILECs. Price floors dictate how low a telco can go on pricing. Changes could affect the price of local service.