Modem-maker promises that anyone can install its new ADSL gear. Eicon Networks releases the DIVA 2430 SE designed to radically simplify DSL configurations.

by Wayne Kawamoto [February 8, 2001]

According to Eicon, service providers, in many cases, have found it necessary to send technicians to customer premises to install and configure high-speed Internet access services.

But it is preferable for customers to perform self-installations at their own leisure, sparing everyone from the trouble of scheduling a technical visit and the expense of installation.

Eicon says that its DIVA 2430 SE bypasses the problems of installation and configuration by automating the process through its Connect and Surf technology. Once plugged into an ADSL line, the DIVA 2430 SE is supposed to configure itself and easily establish a high-speed Internet connection.

How it works
Client software (PPPoE) normally installed on the PC to establish the Internet connection has been integrated into the DIVA 2430 SE and should operate transparently to the user, meaning that there is no software for the user to configure. This is supposed to eliminate end-user support calls to service providers generated by the need to configure this software, which, in turn, may improve quality of service and profitability for the DSL provider.

The DIVA 2430 SE comes with a setup wizard. Additional ease-of-use features include the DIVA Assistant software that provides performance data. The DIVA 2430 SE is equipped with one Ethernet 10BaseT port and one USB port to accommodate either installation.

Submissive tendencies
Eicon's DIVA 2430 SE is both G.Lite and full-rate ADSL compliant, as well as operating-system independent. The DIVA 2430 SE comes equipped with an ADSL, an Ethernet and a USB cable, and is upgradeable via the Web. PPPoE and PPPoA clients are built-in. Also, the DIVA 2430 SE is compatible with all leading DSLAMs that adhere to the industry standards G.992.1, G.992.2 and T1.413 Issue 2.

"Eicon is at the forefront of the DSL market, delivering access solutions that provide a high-speed Internet experience of unparalleled ease, while removing the burden of support," said Maks Wulkan, Eicon Networks executive vice president .

"This solution provides a strong competitive advantage for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and telecommunication companies (telecoms) that are providing DSL solutions."

"Eicon Networks' DIVA 2430 SE ADSL Modem benefits ISPs and their customers, thanks to the unit's ease of installation and use," says Hugues de Fombelle, DSL Product Group Manager, Eicon Networks.

"Its built-in PPPoE and PPPoA Internet connection interface eliminates the PC-based PPPoE client software that is usually shipped with ADSL consumer premises equipment. The configuration and installation of this software on a PC is a very significant generator of end-user support calls for ISPs."

Can we be friends?
"In an effort to eliminate these calls and improve user-friendliness, we have integrated a patented technology called Connect and Surf that enables the device to automatically detect ADSL service parameters in a initial setup sequence that is easy for the end-user to follow," added de Fombelle.

"Because of this auto-detection capability, ISPs who deploy the unit need not be concerned about employing multiple carriers, each with its own service characteristics," de Fombelle said.

"Furthermore, ISP consortiums can reap the cost savings of ordering the DIVA 2430 SE en masse to deploy anywhere without concern for network compatibility. The DIVA 2430 SE is truly revolutionary in these respects."

Availability and pricing
The DIVA 2430 SE will be available on February 15, 2001 through Eicon distributors. Suggested retail price will be $247.

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