Java: 8x8 Introduces Java-Based IP-PBX Software Development Kit. JTAPI Compliant IP-PBX Allows Developers to Build Shrink Wrapped Voice Mail, Unified Messaging, Customer Service Applications - 8x8's IntraSwitch Software Developer's Kit application development software - Product Announcement

Cambridge Telcom Report, June 21, 1999

8x8, leading manufacturer of digital telecommunication products, Wednesday announced the IntraSwitch Software Developer's Kit (SDK) at the JavaOne Developers Conference.

Consisting of a developer's version of 8x8's IntraSwitch IP-PBX Server Software and a four-line Symphony VoIP Gateway, this kit allows developers to build and test vertical telephony applications on the desktop. The IntraSwitch Server supports Sun Microsystems's Java Telephony API version 1.2. The IntraSwitch IP-PBX runs in the Solaris operating environment as well as other platforms.

Until now, applications developers have needed access to target PBXs to test their computer telephony integration (CTI) applications. With the IntraSwitch SDK, they can prototype JTAPI compatible applications on a Sun workstation or any personal computer and then test them with a complete phone system.

"As a Java server-side application, the IntraSwitch IP-PBX is an example of the power of portability," said Ned Chini, global business development manager for Sun Microsystems. "In the past, CTI applications have needed to be custom built. The Java telephony API allows developers to build feature-rich, standard applications while reducing development time, thus getting products to market quicker while maintaining affordable prices."

"While standard telephony APIs are making applications more portable, prototyping and testing has remained difficult," said Frederic Artru, general manager of 8x8's Odisei subsidiary. "Our IntraSwitch SDK gives developers a complete exercise platform for their applications, which should greatly reduce development time while improving reliability and performance."

IntraSwitch is a Java-based software platform that provides complete IP-PBX features and functionality with full CTI support, including call control, physical terminal control and routing. IntraSwitch is scalable, supporting vertical applications through standard computer telephony applications programming interfaces, including JTAPI and TAPI.

The Symphony VoIP Module connects four standard analog telephones to an IP network, allowing developers to implement a multi-line telephone system for prototyping and testing CTI applications. Multiple Symphony gateways can be used to deploy complete, cost-effective IP telephony systems for small businesses or residential services.

The Symphony VoIP Module uses the industry standard G.711, G.723, G.726 and G.728 audio codecs, and it supports full-duplex acoustic echo cancellation on each line. Symphony supports the following call control protocols: H.323, MGCP and the Cable Labs PacketCable Network Client Specification. Support for the iNOW initiative is planned for later in the year. Fully automated provisioning is possible, making installation easy and networking details transparent to the customer.

Price and Availability

The IntraSwitch Software Developer's Kit will be available in August 1999 for $999. Included are a developer's version of the IntraSwitch IP-PBX, sample JTAPI application source code, user documentation, application notes, and a Symphony VoIP Gateway. Additional gateways are available for $399. FMI: 8x8 sales at 408/727-1885 or order on the Web at www.8x8.com/SDK.> 8x8 is a leading manufacturer of digital telecommunication products, including both central office and customer premise equipment for Internet Protocol (IP) telephony. By leveraging its vertically integrated technology, the Company provides complete IP telephony solutions to service providers such as ISPs, ILECs, CLECs and cable TV system operators, and to telecommunications equipment manufacturers. For more information, visit 8x8's web site at http://www.8x8.com.