DigiTel Communications
DigiTel Communications

Telecom 101

We understand that we work in a complex industry, with specialized terminology and many technical aspects. As a service to clients and potential clients, we'd like to offer an overview of the industry so you can make informed decisions about your organization's telecom solutions. If you have any questions that we haven't addressed, send them our way! We'll be happy to add them here.

Why use a consultant?

  • We have the expertise and experience...we more than pay for ourselves.
  • We protect our client's best interests through out the entire process.
  • Our methodologies for finding and implementing the most efficient and effective solutions have been finely tuned and tested.
  • We do more than just replace a phone system...we have a positive impact on your business or organization.
  • We project manage most aspects of any upgrade or new implementation.
  • Your consultant can act as a single point of contact for you and eliminate your need to deal with multiple vendors which can be both time consuming and costly.

How can I figure out where my telecommunications dollars are being spent?

  • Thorough analysis of accounts payable to find all hidden vendors and costs that you don't realize you are paying.
  • Thorough analysis of vendor invoices...both summaries and detail billings for current services.
  • Look for 3 key areas: equipment costs, carrier services, and on going support/maintenance costs.

What are the advantages of Multi Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) for networking and telecom, and is DigiTel familiar with the technology?

  • MPLS is rapidly replacing both Frame Relay Services and ATM, as it better fits current and future technology needs.
  • Versatility makes an MPLS network the ideal solution for enterprise customers who want to converge data, voice and video onto a single network platform.
  • MPLS is a more cost-effective means of transport, offering up to 4 times more bandwidth for the same monthly recurring costs.
  • MPLS is extremely scalable and secure
  • At DigiTel, we have the knowledge to utilize MPLS networks from the industry's top providers to work for you most efficiently.

How can DigiTel help me with voice and data convergence?

  • The communications industry is experiencing its biggest change in over 30 years with converged IP communication systems becoming the predominant choice.
  • 7 out of 10 new phones being purchased today are IP phones.
  • Convergence integrates voice and data to one network and improves network reliability & uptime.
  • Cost of management and ongoing support is lower.
  • Cost of services is lower.
  • DigiTel has handled voice and data convergence projects of all sizes - from small / mid-size companies to enterprise level customers.

How does DigiTel handle what's going on in the market?

  • We typically don't sell product. We bill for knowledge, experience, and time. As such, we have to be experts in our field.
  • We continually research our market for best of breed solutions for our clients. We know what works, and more importantly, what doesn't.
  • We communicate and coordinate with multi-vendors to stay informed of the product offerings that are available in our industry.
  • We receive training from industry forums, vendors, and carriers, to stay abreast of the latest product offerings.

 

Telecom Glossary of Terms:

Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MLPS)
Attempts to preserve the out-of-band control that frame relay can cause; can make use of an existing ATM network infrastructure; works in conjunction with IP; because MPLS works with IP- that is the biggest advantage over ATM.

Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM)
A form of 'fast packet' switching service for high speed networks which require flexible bandwidth, high-performance transport and switching for connectivity between and among widely distributed customer locations.

VoIP- Voice over Internet Protocol
The routing of voice conversations over the Internet or through any IP-based network; cost savings can be due to utilizing a single network for voice and data; allows users to travel any where in the world and still make and receive phone calls.

Wireless Communication
The transfer of information over a distance without the use of electrical conductors (or wires); to send and share data quickly; example is cell phones;

Telecommunications
The transmission of information, as words, sounds, or images, usually over great distances, in the form of electromagnetic signals, as by telegraph, telephone, radio, or television

Local Area Network (LAN)
A short-distance data communications network. LANs are typically within a building or campus, and to link together computers and peripherals under a standard protocol. The network provides high-bandwidth communications over coaxial cable, twisted-pair, fiber, or microwave media. LANs are usually owned by the user.

Wide Area Network (WAN)
A network that links multiple locations together. A WAN encompasses a much larger geographic area than that of a Local Area Network (LAN).