Far South Networks launches Com.X5 platform for SMEs

It integrates support for wired networks (analogue and ISDN) and wireless networks (WiFi and GSM/3G), while an internal ADSL modem will be available in the near future, making the Com.X5 an ideal, all-in-one solution.

The Com.X5 incorporates a major new software release which supports two unique product lines on a common hardware platform, these being the IP gateway and IP PBX. It provides both the low-cost and high-end markets with a feature-rich IP gateway product that offers a cost-effective and simple path to IP-enabling legacy PBX equipment.

Own server boards had to be developed

Features unique to the Com.X5(G) IP gateway include on-device call recording and "budget router" functionality which ensures optimal monthly usage of existing "premicell" contract minutes. A simple license upgrade provides users with the full PBX feature set on the device or facilitates access to a hosted telephony model that supports multiple tiers of connectivity and services failover.

To achieve its new product goals it was necessary for Far South to develop its own leading edge server boards. After extensive evaluation, it opted to develop its technology based on the Intel Atom processor E6xx range. "In terms of cost in relation to processing power, as well as the integration opportunities, the Intel chip set came out ahead of competitive processors," says Far South Networks MD, Grant Broomhall.

Next target is Europe and Middle East

Far South funded the development with the support of a technology grant from the IDC's Support Programme for Industrial Innovation. It was the second grant the company has received through the programme. The Com.X5 replaces the popular Com.X1 and complements a suite of products that includes the Com.X10 and Com.X2.

With these products Far South has been making inroads into a market that is dominated by big multinationals. It intends marketing its latest product release, which is entirely locally developed, in new territories such as Europe and the Middle East.