BT Implements IP Network For STAR

BT’s Media and Broadcast sector has implemented a network based managed services deal for STAR Group.

The deal is significant for STAR as it shifts technology platforms from the traditional satellite and leased circuit service to the Multi Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) / Internet Protocol (IP) technology for their contribution link to Europe. The new system allows STAR to bring its services to the U.K. and Europe with greater ease, more manageability and in a more efficient manner.

BT now carries four STAR channels (STAR PLUS U.K., STAR NEWS U.K., STAR GOLD International and STAR ONE International) from Hong Kong to BSkyB and Arqiva in UK, with these signals fed through Direct To Home (DTH) platforms reaching millions of subscribers across UK and Europe.

Dr. Guo Xiao Yong, chief technology officer, STAR said, “After months of trial this deal caps an intensive effort of both teams towards the transformation and transition from our traditional satellite route to an MPLS platform. Through extensive testing we are confident that the BT network is not only reliable and resilient but will also provide the additional benefits of cost effectiveness and point-to-multipoint connectivity, giving us more flexibility to expand our services going forward.”