Motorola To Incorporate Integrity Systems Into 3G Call PathMotorola To Incorporate Integrity Systems Into 3G Call Path

A multiyear agreement between Motorola Inc. and Hewlett-Packard will incorporate the latter's Integrity systems into Motorola's third-generation cellular call path for the first time, replacing older proprietary equipment.

The agreement is expected to total multimillions over the life of project and is similar in nature to an agreement HP revealed with mobile carrier Ericsson about a year ago. "They've used homegrown solutions for their network management, which over time have become expensive," Don Jenkins, HP's VP of business-critical systems, said at HPWorld 2004 in Chicago on Monday. Although HP has long sold servers to Motorola, this agreement marks the first time the systems are being used in the network call path, he says.

HP's Integrity systems have been modified for compliance with Motorola's 3G networks, including the integration of Motorola-specific software stacks and physical changes to meet requirements for space, power, and accessibility, Jenkins says. By moving to industry-standard systems, Motorola should be able to more rapidly deploy new services on its cellular network, he adds.

The platform to be used by Motorola will consist of HP cx2600 rack-mount servers based on the Itanium processor; a Linux operating system, with carrier-grade features that have been hardened to meet telecom standards; and HP's OpenCall Radio Signaling Controller solution, which is HP's implementation of the Signaling Systems 7 industry standard for handling call signaling and connection in the core network. Motorola will integrate its own middleware and application software.

Jenkins says he expects that Motorola will first deploy the platforms in new call centers as they are built, then replace older systems over time as they're upgraded.