June 17, 2008 -- At NXTcomm in Las Vegas, Emerson Network Power unveiled its 'Containerized Computing Solution,' a modular platform designed to allow telecom companies to provide U.S. consumers with wireless and broadband services more quickly and economically.
The company says its "central office in a box" concept pulls together components not typically assembled in a single modular platform. The platform's components include: embedded computing and DC power conversion equipment, precision cooling units; power transfer switches, and server racks and enclosures, i.e. the critical enabling components telecom companies need to build out wireless and broadband networks to meet growing U.S. consumer demand.
"Telecommunications providers are racing to meet customer demands in the U.S. and emerging markets abroad, and there isn't always time for bricks and mortar," contends Ed Feeney, executive vice president, Emerson. "Emerson Network Power has the unique grid-to-chip capabilities and global reach needed to bring this complex solution to telecom providers and their customers around the world."
Emerson Network Power has previously deployed containerized solutions, but typically included in them only infrastructure equipment -- not the embedded computing needed to actually support a network. Feeney continues "Those experiences have shown that a modular solution employing components from a single source enable an easier, faster deployment, and ensure a low total cost of ownership due to reduced service demands."
"This concept illustrates the ability to supply everything from the power inlet to the network outlet including switchgear, power conversion, cooling, racking, and embedded computing technology based on the AdvancedTCA open standard," adds Earle Weaver, group vice president, Emerson. "It's a true grid-to-chip solution, and since it all comes from Emerson Network Power there are no integration worries, as with multiple suppliers."
Emerson Network Power is seeking industry feedback on its Containerized Computing Solution. Visitors to the Emerson Network Power booth at NXTcomm will be invited to provide input and ask questions on-site. In addition, others can share their thoughts at www.EmersonContainer.com, a blog set up to gather industry input. Feedback will be collected and evaluated to help refine the concept going forward.