British Telecom Shows an Improved Telephone for Traders

BT North America on Wednesday unveiled an advanced telephone for financial markets traders that takes up less space, giving traders more desk space for computer screens.

Officials at the U.S. subsidiary of British Telecommunications PLC said the pV405 telephone "turret" is 25% smaller than its predecessor but more powerful. Its functions include the ability to gain access to as many as 1,600 telephone lines linked to counterparties.

"This unit represents state-of-the-art turret design," said Marc Steatham, BT marketing manager. "The pV405 fits in any current desk design, allowing for fast and easy installation and cutover."

BT has trading systems installed at more than 4,000 sites with more than 45,000 trading positions worldwide.

"The pV405 is fully loaded to give our customers every advantage available," said Colin Knight, managing director of BT trading systems. "Equally important, the pV405 helps position our customers to capitalize immediately on new technology, such as voice and data integration, before their competitors."