Virtual telephony

BT has developed a virtual reality system to improve the efficiency of its networks.

The desktop system allows network managers to observe and interact with a three-dimensional model of a telecommunications network, interrogating the system for information about network configuration and faults.

Users can select a global view of the whole network or home in on some part of it. They can also 'fly' around the network, looking at it from different angles and perspectives, making it easier to spot and remedy problems.

BT is planning to develop the system so that it will not only locate errors on the network but also establish alternative routing for temporary problem-solving.