Alcatel introduces its high performance network (HPN(TM)) -- ATM-switched, SONET-based solutions for telephone networks.

RICHARDSON, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 31, 1995--Alcatel Network Systems today introduces its High Performance Network (HPN(TM)) package of switching, routing and network management solutions as telephone networks realize the promise of the information superhighway. Alcatel bases the HPN on the technological advances it has made in the areas of ATM (asynchronous transfer mode) switching, SONET (synchronous optical network) broadband, and network management services.

"No company is more committed to the high performance needs of the telephone companies and other service providers," said Krish Prabhu, Alcatel Vice President for Business Development and Chief Technical Officer. "With this integrated approach, our customers can receive what they want when they need it in terms of ATM switching, SONET transport, cross connects, video codecs and network management solutions. They can choose a complete end-to-end package or specific network elements."

Alcatel's HPN products are all based on open standards architecture to promote SONET inter-operability with existing and new equipment from Alcatel and other manufacturers. The HPN is designed to give carriers ultimate flexibility and survivability for voice, data and video services.

Alcatel seeks to assist the carrier evolution from multiple, layered single-purpose networks to a multi-purpose network of an ATM and SONET fabric. Customers in search of systems solutions can specify a series of migration plans that meet their current needs while enhancing network efficiency and profitability through the introduction of new services (product categories follow).

Alcatel Network Systems designs, manufactures and services a full line of voice, data, video and multimedia transmission products - such as ATM switching systems, digital cross connects, fiber optic transmission systems, optical amplifiers, microwave radios, video codecs, and network management systems. These products are used in high performance networks throughout the telecommunications, broadcast and utility industries. The parent company, Alcatel, is one of the world's leading communications equipment manufacturers, with plants in 32 countries and markets in over 125 countries. -0-

Alcatel's High Performance Network --

Product Categories

SONET Transport -- Terminal multiplexers, add/drop multiplexers, ring (including four-fiber bi-directional line-switched) and repeater systems (Alcatel 16xx SM), optical amplifiers (Alcatel 1610 OA). Advanced hardware and software design facilitates the deployment of the state-of-the-art ring architecture for network survivability protection against fiber breaks. "In-shelf" capacity upgrades accommodate system growth. OC-1 to OC-192 line rates (51.8 Mbit/s to 10 Gbit/s).

Digital Cross Connects -- Complete product family: narrowband (Alcatel 1630 SX), wideband (1631 SX), and broadband (Alcatel 1633 SX) for continuous performance monitoring and bandwidth management. Alcatel's FlexPoint(TM) feature combines asynchronous DS3 and SONET STS-1 traffic connections, switchable between either mode, and payload management features on one card for a "high-density" traffic interface that functions as a true SONET "gateway."

ATM Switching -- The Alcatel 1000 AX is a NEBS-compliant central office core switch for backbone networks. Avanza(TM) frame relay system and cell relay products consisting of the 1100 HSS (high-speed switch) and 1100 LSS (LAN switching system).

Network Management -- User system interface (Alcatel 1301 NM) and element layer (1320 NM) management products. 1320 NM runs on HP OpenView DM further enhanced with Alcatel TMN (Telecommunications Management Network) infrastructure software to facilitate the management of all SONET equipment -- made by any manufacturer -- compliant with TL-1 or CMISE software languages.

Video Products -- A complete family for every video compression and transport need: SONET-ready - Alcatel 1718 VC, high-quality video - 1740 VC, high-definition (HDTV) - 1741 VC, component 4:2:2 - 1743 VC, and distance learning/business teleconferencing - 1745 VC.

Digital Microwave -- Alcatel MDR 4000, 5000 and 6000 series for high capacity to narrowband requirements. Operate in frequency bands from 2 to 18 GHz, with capacities from 2 DS1s (96 voice channels) to 3 DS3s/STS-1s (2016 channels) and in-service capacity upgrade capability. Featuring MDR-4000s SONET radio.

CONTACT: Alcatel Network Systems, Richardson

Michael Newsom, 214/996-7896

Internet: [e-mail]