New Zealand technology and telecommunications solutions company, Argent Networks announced that it was launching a new application for IPTV (Internet Protocol TV) billing and mediation as part of its leading ArgentEclipse Convergent Billing and CRM solution.

ArgentEclipse now also provides event-based billing for IPTV applications including Video on Demand, Pay-per View, Video Broadcasting, Gaming, Content and IPTV Telephony services.

Chris Jones, CEO of Argent Networks says the ArgentEclipse suite of products is the ideal solution for new and existing broadband, cable and TV operators wishing to get into the burgeoning global IPTV market.

"Worldwide demand for IPTV is expected to be huge as broadband is now available to more than 100 million households. Given that many of the biggest telecommunications providers are investing in IPTV for both their residential and business markets, our product is exactly what they need. With ArgentEclipse's modular and fully convergent CRM and billing products, IPTV operators can now expand their offerings to subscribers, giving them one simple, easy bill for all telephony, data and now video offerings."

"Moreover, this new ArgentEclipse IPTV billing application now finally completes the Argent Quad Play line-up and will help service providers provide a unique and enriching customer experience to their end-users which will an added edge in today’s competitive environment."

Jones also says that the ArgentEclipse IPTV solution provides IPTV manufacturers and service providers with a far more comprehensive suite of applications than has been available before.

"This means that IPTV manufacturers and service providers who use ArgentEclipse get a host of added features such as provisioning, CRM/CTI, pre-paid and post-paid billing options, as well as automatic EPG (Electronic Programme Guide) updating for the complete range of IPTV services."

In addition, Jones says that IPTV subscribers will be provided with options for self- provisioning and subscription to new services, access to online EPG, PVR (personal video recorder) support, online payment and customer services options.

"Not surprisingly, we're excited about this release within ArgentEclipse as it also coincides with the recent signing of a significant OEM contract with a major broadband, cable and IPTV infrastructure provider which Argent will be in a position to announce shortly."

Argent Networks provides advanced solutions for the voice, data, video and mobile sectors of the global telecommunications market.