REGINA, SK - September 12, 2002 - Cisco Systems today announced that Saskatchewan Telecommunications (SaskTel) is using Cisco's IP Multicast technology to launch an innovative new service that will allow residential customers in Saskatchewan to have Internet access and digital broadcast services, all in one package. SaskTel will become one of the first local carriers in Canada to offer TV service over a broadband connection.
The innovative offering, called MaxTM Interactive Services, will provide SaskTel subscribers with another choice for television services to their homes. MaxTM Interactive Services will allow its customers to have unlimited high-speed Internet on their television and computer, and a full lineup of digital quality television channels, including local radio and television programming. The content of the service will consist of broadcast television programming, pay-per-view movies and special events.
"SaskTel's new solution marks the evolution of a traditional carrier's role in the marketplace and represents true convergence of voice, video and data technology for residential customers," said Lui Fogolini, vice-president, Canadian service provider operations at Cisco Systems Canada.
"We're extremely proud to be working with SaskTel in helping them achieve such a significant milestone. This new advanced service will allow SaskTel to move into a new area for revenue generation and service offering, providing the company with a significant competitive advantage," added Fogolini.
Cisco is playing a key role in the provision of the new service. The core of the SaskTel advanced network infrastructure network is based on Cisco Catalyst 6500® Series multilayer switches that transport IP video multicast traffic via Gigabit Ethernet links throughout the province of Saskatchewan.
IP Multicast, delivered by Cisco IOS® Software, enables simultaneous transmission of content, including live video and audio over the network at multiple sites with no impact on bandwidth or quality degradation. IP Multicast is a bandwidth-conserving technology that reduces traffic by simultaneously delivering a single stream of information to thousands of corporate recipients and homes.
Al Yam, SaskTel's General Manager, Technology Development and Engineering, said SaskTel chose Cisco technology for its breadth of intelligent network services. "We've been working with Cisco for the past five years on our IP MPLS-based network, and we've had a very positive experience with its technology. As well, we found the Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series to have the best performance for our high-volume, multicast transport network."
He added, "One of the largest single hurdles of offering TV/video solution is the cost of the network infrastructure. By utilizing a broadband Gigabit Ethernet transport solution, we're able to move into offering interactive television services more cost effectively."
SaskTel is rolling out MaxTM Interactive Services initially into Regina with other major Sasktachewan centres to follow.
About SaskTel
SaskTel is the leading full service communications company in Saskatchewan, offering complete wireline, wireless, Internet and e-business solutions over a state-of-the-art, digital network. SaskTel maintains investments in companies that provide a variety of products and services. SaskTel partners with more than 170 Saskatchewan businesses and spent more than $238 million in 2001 on materials and services from Saskatchewan suppliers. Visit SaskTel at www.sasktel.com.
About Cisco Systems
Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide leader in networking for the Internet. News and information are available at www.cisco.com.
About Cisco Systems Canada
Cisco Systems Canada Co. has offices across Canada dedicated to customer support, sales, and service. In addition, Cisco Systems has a significant research and development centre in Ottawa, Ontario. Additional information about Cisco Systems Canada is available at www.cisco.com/ca.
Press Contacts:
Willa Black
Cisco Systems Canada
416-306-7732
Pager: 1-800-68-CISCO
wblack@cisco.com
Gareth Pettigrew
Strategic/Ampersand (for Cisco)
416-961-5595 ext. 428
gareth@stratamp.com
