One of the most impressive characteristics of Broadband technology is the ability to support Video & Voice over IP (VVoIP) and other high-quality video and sound applications at a low running cost.
Hitachi Cable has long focused on the development of revolutionary business communications solutions, handling domestic marketing of videoconferencing systems for global market share leader, Polycom, Inc. In addition, the Company recently put on the market an Internet gateway called Througate that allows broadband network connections between videoconferencing systems. (See figure 2.) A wireless IP phone system is also being developed for the market. By adopting IEEE802.11b general-use wireless LAN standards, this system is able to use a single access point to connect a large number of terminals (See figure 3), whereas conventional PHS systems could only support up to three connections per access point. This solution not only allows more efficient IP telephone infrastructure at lower investment costs, but in the future will also enable telecommunications from off site via wireless telecommunications “hot spots.” Hitachi Cable is also developing a videoconferencing system to be marketed to both corporate and individual users.
Hitachi Cable will continue to proactively provide products and services that lead society into the Broadband Age.