Advanced Computer Communications and West End partner to enhance broadband access product line.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 4, 1996--Advanced Computer Communications Inc. (ACC), a leading provider of network access solutions for the home, office, and enterprise, Tuesday announced the signing of an OEM agreement with West End Systems Corp.

According to the terms of the agreement, West End will develop an integrated router card based on ACC's long-standing bridge/router technology for exclusive use in West End's WestBound 9600 Hybrid Fiber/Coax (HFC) product line.

The WestBound 9600 product series is designed to provide sophisticated communications over the emerging broadband infrastructure and to meet the converging needs of the cable TV industry and the operators of public and private telephone networks. The products provide a complete and integrated solution for voice, data, and LAN services for homes and businesses.

The 10BaseT bridge/router module to be developed jointly by ACC and West End includes a 10BaseT access port and a variable rate ST-bus interface on the network side. It will be primarily used in West End's 9604 and 9602/01 subscriber drop products to provide data services including Internet access over a CATV network. 10BaseT Ethernet is seen as the high speed data interface of choice for many personal computers in homes and businesses.

"West End is very excited about merging its expertise in HFC networks with ACC's superior bridge/router technology," said Roger Magoon, vice president of marketing and business development for West End. "In turn, we are eager to utilize ACC's unique position in the access market to help customers who are interested in fast Internet connectivity."

"ACC welcomes the opportunity to work with West End," commented Bert Whyte, president and CEO of ACC. "West End, like ACC, is a Newbridge affiliate which gives both companies unparalleled access to global markets and new technologies. With this agreement, we will be able to leverage each other's strengths and customer relationships."

About West End Systems Corp.

West End Systems Corp. headquartered in Ontario, Canada, is a leader in the development and delivery of broadband access solutions for the local loop. West End products fully exploit the many advantages of HFC architecture, positioning both cable TV and telephone companies to deliver a wide range of interactive information, communication, and entertainment services to residential and small business customers.

Information about West End Systems Corp. and its products can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.westendsys.com.

About ACC

ACC is a leading manufacturer of network access products that provide cost-effective solutions for the home, office, and enterprise. ACC leads the industry in the development of Bandwidth Optimization technologies to maximize the utilization of leased lines and switched services. ACC's products are sold worldwide through 80 leading international VARs and OEMs serving corporate and business customers, educational institutions, health care, retail establishments, governments, and PTTs.

Advanced Computer Communications is headquartered at 340 Storke Road, Santa Barbara, Calif. 93117; telephone [phone]; fax [phone]. Internet: [e-mail]. World Wide Web: http://www.acc.com.

CONTACT: Advanced Computer Communications Inc., Santa Barbara

Andrew Chase or Jessica Glick, 805/685-4455

or

West End Systems Corp.

Nancy Hughes, 613/623-9600