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2005

Radio broadcasting technology first receives industry recognition

THUS plc today announced that is has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Techworld.com Network Awards 2005.  THUS is a finalist in the ‘Network Project of the Year – Private Sector’ category for delivery of its MPLS (Multi-Protocol Label Switching) IP VPN solution to the GWR Group (now trading as Gcap Media plc, after its merger with Capital Radio on 9 May 2005).  As a finalist, this is industry recognition for THUS’s role in enabling GWR to become the UK’s first radio broadcaster to multicast live audio over MPLS.

The esteemed and coveted Network Awards 2005 recognise the very best in every field of the network industry and showcase the leading individuals, teams and companies that have demonstrated innovative and effective use of networking and telecommunications technology. 

THUS provided GWR Group with a 31-site MPLS IP VPN network, creating a backbone for GWR to send live broadcasts to a few, several or all of its sites simultaneously – delivering today the broadcasting network of the future.  All of GWR’s stations, which include Classic FM and more than 31 local FM stations, can now share broadcast content, such as celebrity interviews or major concerts.

‘Traditional’ data applications such as e-mail, Internet and file transfer are also carried between sites.  This consolidation of all traffic onto one network has allowed GWR to drive down costs by removing legacy voice and satellite networks.

“The delivery of THUS’s network is the realisation of our long-held vision for the impact that a modern data network can bring to the radio business.  This is the way all broadcasters will be going with their services in the future, no question,” said Vincent Bourne, infrastructure manager, GWR Group.  “It comes as no surprise that THUS has been shortlisted for this award.  Its professionalism and technological capabilities were second to none in helping us reach this goal.”

“It is excellent news that THUS is a finalist in these highly regarded awards,“ said Phil Male, Chief Operating Officer at THUS plc.  “We pride ourselves in being able to introduce the efficiencies modern, converged networks can offer organisations from all industries.  The GWR Group application just shows the extent to what can be achieved.”

The winners will be announced at The Techworld.com Network Awards 2005 Gala Dinner and Presentation Evening, to be held at The Brewery, London on Wednesday 22 June 2005.