CP-TA Introduces New Membership Levels, Self-Testing Program for xTCA Interoperability

By Brian Wood, CP-TA/Continuous Computing

Since its inception in 2006, CP-TA has focused on improving the interoperability of xTCA (AdvancedTCA, MicroTCA, AMC) building blocks for the telecommunications industry. Our original goal was to create a third-party interoperability certification program – but as the xTCA industry has changed, we have changed with it.

At the AdvancedTCA Summit in Santa Clara in October, we introduced a self-testing program for the interoperability of xTCA building blocks. The goal is to enable companies to use our Interoperability Compliance Document (ICD) and Test Procedure Manual (TPM) for AdvancedTCA, along with industry test tools developed by CP-TA and its members, to perform self-testing and verify product interoperability. Next, we will develop a TPM and ICD for MicroTCA.

CP-TA now has recognized Polaris Networks’ MicroTCA Tester and AMC Tester as suggested test tools for manageability. We approved Polaris’ ATCA Tester earlier this year as an authorized test tool; it is harmonized with the ATCA ICD and TPM to test for manageability interoperability of AdvancedTCA building blocks.

Furthermore, CP-TA has negotiated for discounts on xTCA test tools from Polaris Networks for member companies, depending on their level of membership, and ranging from 5% to 20%. Similarly, CP-TA is working with other providers to develop thermal testing tools so companies can test xTCA products for CP-TA B.x thermal compliance.

In addition, CP-TA has expanded its mission to include xTCA communications platforms used in military, aerospace, and data center applications. While originally designed for use in telecom, xTCA has gained traction in other markets due to the advantages of open standards, and its inherent reliability and power efficiency. Vendors supplying other vertical markets share similar xTCA interoperability objectives.

To meet the goal of broadening our focus, CP-TA has restructured its membership levels and now offers a “Participant” level for $2,000 annually. The new level offers members significant technical and marketing benefits at a relatively low cost and provides an easy entry point for joining and participating in the organization. A complete list of membership levels and benefits is available on the CP-TA web site at www.cp-ta.org/join/apply.     

Interoperability does not happen by magic. CP-TA is working hard to empower the ecosystem by providing standardized, proven guidance and tools to improve interoperability and lower integration costs.

To join us in this important work, please visit CP-TA’s web site at www.cp-ta.org.

Brian Wood is Marketing Work Group chair of the Communications Platforms Trade Association (CP-TA). You may contact him via Joe Saylor at jsaylor@nereus-worldwide.com.