Deals done this past week
An overview of the week in deals in the Irish technology sector.
Dell completes Force 10 acquisition
Dell said today it has finalised the acquisition of Force 10 Networks, a specialist in data centre networking. The move enables Dell to deliver virtual network services infrastructure.
In addition to strategic acquisitions, such as Force10, Dell expects to hire several hundred new team members in engineering, sales and marketing, and services jobs at the Dell Silicon Valley R&D Center.
Dell Force10’s technology allows firms to transform network infrastructures into an open, reliable and scalable data centre and cloud computing fabric.
Dell Force10’s customers include leading web 2.0 and Fortune 100 companies, internet portals, global carriers, leading research laboratories and government organisations with some of the world’s most demanding network environments.
Data Solutions signs wireless distribution deal with Aruba Networks
Data Solutions has signed an agreement with Aruba Networks in order to make Aruba Network’s wireless solutions available to its reseller network in Ireland.
This follows the opening of Aruba Networks’ European headquarters in Cork in June, which created 40 jobs.
Aruba Networks’ Mobile Virtual Enterprise (MOVE) architecture fuses wired and wireless infrastructures into one network access solution.
This allows mobile workers to have consistent and secure access to the appropriate network resources regardless of where they are or what device they are using.
It will also help improve productivity and reduce capital and operational costs.
Kerry wireless firm to enable coverage for all of Iraq
Kerry-based communications technology company Altobridge is to provide voice, broadband and SMS services for all of Iraq after securing a major deal with Iraq’s major telecoms firm Asiacell.
“For over a decade, Asiacell has been pioneering the provision of products and services that enhance the quality of life and business for Iraqis,” said Dr. Diar Ahmed, Asiacell CEO.
“Telecommunications is the backbone of any progressive economy and is a key driver of socioeconomic growth, which is why we have made it our mission to ensure that telecom services are available to all Iraqis regardless of their location.
“Asiacell is the first telecom company to provide coverage for all 18 provinces, and to supply mobile voice, broadband and SMS services to remote communities that are not traditionally associated with revenue generating potential,”
Dr. Ahmed went on to explain that the Altobridge lite-site is a cost-effective, energy-efficient solution that optimizes capital budgets while minimizing backhaul, making it an ideal choice for Asiacell’s plans towards efficiently expanding its nationwide coverage.
Airtel acquires Australian aerospace firm’s radio IP
Dublin-based Airtel ATN, which makes communications software for the aerospace industry, has acquired the sole rights to intellectual property from Australian firm Aviation Data Systems (ADS).
ADS provides both independent platform and PC based hardware and software systems that allow developers and users of Data Link systems to emulate and engage in data link operations between a ground station and an aircraft.
The primary purpose of many ADS’s systems is to replace either the aircraft system or the ground station system in test and development configurations.
Airtel ATN has partnered with ADS since 2007 years providing VDL Test Tools to Air/Ground Communicator Service Providers (ACSPs) and Avionics Manufacturers.
NI firm secures stg£1.5m schools ‘cloud learning’contract
Newtownabbey-based Northgate Managed Services has won a stg£1.5m contract to provide a state-of-the-art ICT managed service for the Northampton based, Malcolm Arnold Academy sponsored by the David Ross Education Trust.
The contract will see Northgate design and manage the introduction of a new robust and flexible ICT solution, one that mirrors the Academy’s belief that ICT can help to deliver and support innovative and learning approaches.
Through engagement with teaching and support staff, Northgate will help the Academy prepare for change as it moves into its new ICT rich environment.
After analysing existing needs, an extensive training and developmental programme has been designed to build confidence and encourage wider use of ICT in the classroom. A ‘proof of concept’ room has been set up so teachers can familiarise themselves with new hardware and software.
