ADVA Optical Networking Augments FSP-II by Adding TDM Module ADVA Optical Networking Presents New Time Division Multiplexing Converter.

Business/High-Tech Editors

MARTINSRIED/MUNICH, Germany & RAMSEY, New Jersey--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 30 2000--ADVA Optical Networking (German Neuer Markt:ADV), a leading global provider of optical networking solutions, announced today the launch of a Time Division Multiplexing (TDM) converter module for the Fiber Service Platform-II (FSP-II).

The TDM module allows the transmission of four Enterprise System Connection (ESCON) channels over one wavelength of light. Used in conjunction with the optical MuxDemux system, which bundles up to 32 wavelengths, the capacity of the FSP-II can now be increased from 32 to 128 ESCON channels.

Enterprises implementing FSP-II with TDM modules are able to cut costs by nearly 45% compared with similar installations of FSP-II without TDM deployed. The expense of leasing or buying up to three additional pairs of fiber is also saved. Enterprises and service providers faced with the ever-increasing demand for bandwidth are able to provide even more cost-effective service solutions instantaneously by using the ADVA FSP-II system.

ESCON, developed by IBM for the interconnection of computer systems in the enterprise market, runs at a bit rate of 200 Mbps and is used primarily for point-to-point connections, especially for Storage Area Networks (SANs). Within the enterprise market, where there is substantial demand for cost-effective technology transmitting data over the fewest fibers possible, ESCON currently represents more than the half of the low-speed channel cards sold by ADVA.

The TDM Channel Card operates by converting the four 200 Mbps ESCON channels from the customer equipment into electric signals. It then multiplexes them, defined by timeslots, to a single data stream at a data rate of 1.25Gbps. This data stream has an optical output signal at the standard FSP-II remote wavelength within the 1550nm ITU-T standard. This process works opposite for the receive direction.

The TDM module is a hot-pluggable card that fits in the standard FSP-II chassis with all other FSP-II cards. In addition, standard management features such as monitoring and controlling of local and remote system parameters via SNMP are available. The TDM module is currently being installed at customer sites and will be available to order later this year.

Brian P. McCann, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, of ADVA Optical Networking stated "The TDM module for FSP-II enables ADVA to offer its customers even more cost-effective and flexible optical networking solutions. We are continuing to focus our efforts on the company goal of helping our customers optimize the use of existing bandwidth".

Chris Nicoll, Vice President, Current Analysis stated "ADVA has recognized that service providers and enterprises need to scale their connections across metropolitan area networks. The addition of the TDM Card enhances ADVA's position as a leading global provider of optical solutions in metro access markets. The TDM Card provides a cost effective solution for ESCON deployment in storage area networks".

For more information please go to

http://www.advaoptical.com/FSP-II.TDM.htm

About ADVA Optical Networking

ADVA Optical Networking is a leading global provider of optical networking solutions to deploy, manage and deliver communication networks and high-speed services for the metropolitan area and enterprise markets. ADVA's product family is used by both metro area service providers and enterprises to provide high-performance connectivity and delivery of high-speed data, storage, voice and video services. ADVA sells its products through a global network of distributors, value added resellers, and original equipment manufacturers including Alcatel, Cisco, and Siemens. As of September 2000, over 420 enterprises and more than 25 service providers have deployed ADVA's equipment. ADVA is headquartered in Munich (Germany), with R&D centers in Cambridge and York (UK), Oslo (Norway), Berlin and Meiningen (Germany). Worldwide offices are located in Berlin, Hannover and Munich (Germany); Cambridge and York (UK); Paris (France), Chicago/Illinois and Ramsey/New Jersey (USA); and Tokyo (Japan). Visit www.advaoptical.com for more information about ADVA Optical Networking.

Published by:

ADVA AG Optical Networking, Martinsried/Munich and Meiningen, Germany. ADVA Optical Networking Inc., Ramsey/New Jersey, USA. www.advaoptical.com