San Jose, California-based Madge Networks Inc has launched a family of video networking products which use the company’s new MadgeOne multiservice switched network architecture. The new family includes the VideoSwitch multipoint control unit, which enables three or more parties to take part in a multi-party videoconference. The VideoSwitch takes the form of a module fully integrated with the company’s existing wide area networks AccessSwitch platforms. Multiple VideoSwitches can also be cascaded, according to the San Jose, California-based company. The VideoSwitch is shipping now for $12,000. Madge has also announced the VideoSwitch Express: designed as a four-site standalone combined wide area access switch and multipoint control unit, it provides the same functionality as the VideoSwitch, but for smaller video networks. It’s also shipping now and costs $9,995. The final component of the new family is the VC Wizard Reservation System, a conference control software package designed for use across the full range of Madge video networking products. It enables videoconference participants to schedule, start and end multipoint videoconferences from their desktop computers, and includes software for the VideoSwitch control unit modules. Also shipping now, pricing starts at $7,000. For the future, the company says it is developing a local area network video gateway – with versions for both Ethernet and Token Ring networks – to connect between local area and ISDN infrastructures. It will be designed, says the company, to translate network packets into standard H.320 frames, allowing users on a local area network to videoconference with users not on the same network. It ships during the first half of 1997. Madge is also working on an entry-level inverse multiplexer for ISDN Basic Rate Interface videoconferencing, due to ship in the first quarter of next year broadcast information to employees’ desktops via Lotus Notes. In order to provide companies with near real-time news feeds, PointCast partnered with Salt Lake City, Utah-based WavePhore Inc, a subscription-based premium content provider. It has also partnered with Vienna, Virginia-based IT services company BTG Inc to help it set up what it calls a CommunityCast network, so that professionals in such vertical market industries as health, government and real-estate can view detailed industry news alongside public and company news. The OneCast products are due out early next year.
