Fujitsu Telecommunications Europe Limited, the leading supplier of high performance telecommunications solutions, has secured a landmark contract to supply ADSL (Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line) access technology and Network Management systems to BT Plc, for its Interactive Services Network (ISN) Trial. Fujitsu's solution includes SuperVision® ADSL central office and customer premises equipment supplied by Westell Technologies, Inc. (Westell). BT's ISN Trial is utilising up to two thousand lines in North and West London, enabling BT and other service providers to test a variety of commercial-content and network services, such as fast-access Internet - for residential, business and corporate Virtual Private Network applications - as well as video-based programming.

The ground-breaking contract is based on a long-term three-way partnership between BT, Fujitsu and Alcatel, with all partners working in close co-operation. The ADSL technology supplied by Fujitsu is being used to connect half the Trial's lines, with the balance serviced via Alcatel's equipment. Fujitsu's Access Network Management System - FENS AN - is providing comprehensive remote-access facilities for the Trial, encompassing Fault, Test, Configuration and Security Management. The system combines powerful management features with highly cost-effective administration - it supports a secure World Wide Web-based multi-user interface, whilst providing full TMN conformance, context-sensitive online help services and extensive service-oriented management reporting. During the Trial, the Fujitsu FENS AN system is being integrated with BT's Operational Support System, to allow for flow-through management.

BT's ISN Trial represents a response to the growing demand for high-speed data services and will provide test-bed facilities for a range of applications. In addition to fast Internet access and corporate Virtual Private Networks, it is expected that the test opportunities will encompass remote access services for teleworkers, Video on Demand services and distance learning delivery. The ADSL technology being employed for the Trial is a broadband solution that provides fast access over ordinary phone lines, while enabling real-time multimedia and video services. ADSL is a complementary solution to copper technology, enabling efficient use of existing twisted pair network infrastructure, by providing both data and telephony simultaneously. ADSL can be connected directly to routers, bridges, and Ethernet switches, and can be used for circuit-switched, packet-switched, and ATM-switched data. Fujitsu has successfully integrated ADSL access multiplexer (DSLAM) central office and remote customer premises equipment from Westell into the Fujitsu Access Network Management System (FENS AN).

Fujitsu's European headquarters are located in Birmingham and the company has a long-established track record for product and service innovation, with its high profile customer base including other wide-ranging contracts for BT in the access network. Its product range encompasses advanced solutions for Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (SDH) networks, Next Generation Switching systems, Fibre Access Systems, Radio Access Systems, Passive Optical networks, and ISDN applications, complemented by its comprehensive range of TMN-compliant Network Management Systems.

As a strategic division of Fujitsu Telecommunications of Japan - currently one of the world's largest telecommunications equipment suppliers - Fujitsu Telecommunications Europe has an extensive research and development resource at its Birmingham location, and also operates as part of Fujitsu's global manufacturing resource. In addition to the R&D capabilities, the facilities at the Birmingham site include sophisticated surface mount technology production, accompanied by a dedicated support facility, a large customer training centre and a thriving external plant organisation. The company also has an R&D centre in Northern Ireland, alongside a manufacturing plant and a service centre, complemented by a manufacturing plant in Portugal, and regional offices in Spain, the Nordic countries and Belgium.