WEHCO Video said it has deployed high-speed services to about 149,000 homes
passed via a deal with NetworkIP, an application-service provider based in
Longview, Texas.
WEHCO said it will use NetworkIP's 'e.Cable' platform in six properties:
Longview, Texas; Vicksburg, Miss.; and Forest City, Hot Springs, Pine Bluff and
Searcy, Ark. The MSO -- which is managing the back-office portion of its
high-speed offering -- offers the service under the 'cablelynx' brand.
WEHCO projected that its remaining systems, which pass 28,500 homes, will be
lit up for high speed by the end of March. WEHCO has about 93,000 subscribers in
Arkansas, Texas and Mississippi.
NetworkIP's system also includes Web-based self-provisioning and back-office
elements designed to reduce operator truck rolls and to provide various
bandwidth service levels.
WEHCO marks NetworkIP's first win in the cable sphere. The company debuted
its e.Cable product at last year's Western Show.
NetworkIP is also in talks with overbuilder Grande Communications, a company
spokeswoman said. And SoftNet Systems Inc.'s recent decision to shut down its
ISP Channel unit opened a window of opportunity for the company's new cable
product, she added.
NetworkIP's primary business involves the wholesaling of prepaid Internet and
voice calling-card services. As part of its agreement with WEHCO, the operator
will bundle calling services with its cable-modem offering.
