* DishGAMES to get the message
Cellpoint Mobile and PixelPlay are launching a sweepstakes effort for EchoStar’s DishGAMES iTV service using SMS (short message service) technology.

The initial effort will enable DishGAMES players to “text-in and win” one of three iPod Nanos. Winners will be notiried via text message. PixelPlay will also use SMS to alert players of future game releases, sweepstakes and other promotions.

* JDSU reaches ROADM milestone
JDSU said it has shipped its 10,000th ROADM (reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexer), a network element operators are turning to in order to add capacity and flexibility for services such as VOD, IPTV and online gaming.

JDSU said its ROADMs are each capable of carrying and switching 1.6 terabits of traffic.

* OpVista gets certified for USDA’s RUS program
OpVista has received certification with the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) branch of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for its OpVista2000 optical transport system. RUS provides low interest loans to further the development of the rural utility infrastructure, which allows carriers to economically scale networks to reach remote areas.