VoiceCon '06 Coverage: Multifunctional Routers Get Hotter

Adtran became the latest vendor to introduce a multifunctional router today when it announced its NetVanta 7100 IP PBX at the VoiceCon show in Orlando, Florida.

The NetVanta 7100 provides all the core data and voice functionality needed in an up to 50-person office. The 7100 offer a SIP-based, IP PBX and gateway and a voice mail system. Data capabilities include a router, Ethernet switch, firewall, VPN and CSU/DSU.

The device will to some extent compete with the Cisco 2811 and 2821 Integrated Service Router (ISR), but only in its port counts and configurations. The NetVanta is meant for small offices and does not provide a single systems image spanning multiple sites. The 2811 and 2821 are meant as branch office extensions, presume a Cisco Call Manager (CCM) in the main office, and can be managed and configured as part of a single system image. The 7100 ships in a 24-station configuration and expandable up to 40 stations or down to 10 stations.

The 2811, however, offers more switch capacity than the 7100, reaching up to 32 10/100 Ethernet switched ports instead of the 7100's 24-ports. But the 2811 also supports fewer IP telephony users, 36 instead of 50 on the NetVanta. The 2821 reaches 48 IP phone users, but also uses a larger Ethernet switch of 48 ports.

Pricing is expected to be at $545 and that includes the IP 501 Polycom phone.