It's IP Christmas from Cisco

In the largest product release in recent years, Cisco has unveiled a new range of equipment for voice, video and data over IP.

The announcement is part of Cisco's continuing strategy to expand out of its traditional router market into higher value IP based voice and video equipment.

The company is aiming to encourage businesses to run data and telephony services on the same networks, and today's releases include the Catalyst 4200 switch, a converged IP voice, video and data routing engine for branch offices and SMEs.

The launch also includes the VG 248 voice analog gateway, designed to help customers bridge the gap between converged IP networks and legacy analog phones, faxes and PBX equipment.

Cisco's announcement also included software products, such as the CallManager 3.2, Emergency Responder, Media Gateway Control Protocol and the IP Contact Center bundle.

The company's ability to make aggressive investments in new technology during such difficult times for the technology industry is testament to its strong financial position, and it is likely to reap the reward when demand increases.

Some of the products are available now, and the full range will be available by the end of the year.