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NJEDge.Net -
The New Jersey Higher Education Network
Charlie provided an update on recent negotiations between NJEDge.Net and Verizon. He discussed the original RFP, Verizon's response and efforts to finalize the master services agreement (MSA). He identified two specific issues that need to be resolved in order to reach agreement and have the MSA signed. One issue focuses on the "Baseline Services" MCU size, and IDLS. The second issue deals with the "Optional Services" of video call management and First Virtual's products, which are to be used in the network. NJEDge.Net wants "Click to Meet" from First Virtual. Much of the discussion also focused on streaming video service and how it will be accomplished through the multipoint control unit (MCU). Charlie explained how video calls would work on the network including calls between NJEdge.Net and Access New Jersey K-12 schools, how the MCU would be used and the way both hardware and software ports would be used to connect to both the Extranet and the Internet, and security for the portal. Two video servers would be included in the video portal. The hardware MCU will be an Accord and the software MCU will be a First Virtual product. ISDN will be supported. Colleges and universities can use IDLS and the NJEDge.Net networks. Charlie stressed that the Verizon offer of a free codec does not require an institution to discontinue use of IDLS. As things stand, colleges can accept the free codec if their circuit qualifies them for it and continue to use IDLS. In response to questions Charlie referenced illustrations on our website which show how to connect equipment. The data network design was presented and discussed. The new design will use a very high speed Verizon SONET backbone. The new design provides more flexible circuit selections and cost options. These options enable NJEDge.Net to meet the unique needs of some institutions such as UMDNJ.
Costs:
The time line for the "trial period" was reviewed. The North Jersey LATA will have service first and then the Delaware Valley LATA starting June 1, then the Atlantic Coast LATA. In the "Phase 1" trial period, the VRG would conduct field trials of video equipment between North Jersey LATA colleges. Tom Lancaster report Tom briefed the group on his proposal that a telecommunications trust fund be set up in New Jersey. He worked with others to obtain a grant from the Ford Foundation to do a study of the telecommunications taxes in New Jersey. A report has now been issued. A professor at Steven's Institute of Technology did most of the research for the report. The next step would be legislation in New Jersey to bring about some reforms and establish a telecommunications trust fund for schools, libraries and colleges. National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Tony Selimo commented on the NAB conference. He would like to see NJEDge.Net and the VRG become more involved with the NAB. The conference and show are very worthwhile. The job fair which is part of the event each year, was noticeably smaller this year. Many companies are not hiring this year. Next Meetings
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