AstroTerra Launches TerraLink 3000, a High-Performance, License-Free Fixed Wireless Communication Solution.

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 11, 1999--

AstroTerra Corp. today introduced the TerraLink(TM) 3000 as the newest offering in its second generation of laser data communication solutions.

The TerraLink 3000 incorporates the same ground-breaking technology used in AstroTerra's satellite-to-ground laser communication system to provide high-performance wireless optical data links between buildings in local area and metropolitan area networks.

Designed with AstroTerra's patented multiple transmit aperture technology, the TerraLink 3000 uses three parallel lasers to insure optimal performance in adverse atmospheric conditions. The TerraLink 3000 can be configured for user-specified data rates of 10 to 155 Mbps. Since the TerraLink 3000 systems are protocol-independent, they can easily be upgraded over time as the user's network environment changes.

"AstroTerra has been working with its strategic partners in a number of different vertical markets to provide a range of free-space laser communication products that can fulfill a variety of networking needs," said Sales and Marketing Director, Steve Barrera. "The TerraLink 3000 was inspired by the recent surge of interest in fixed wireless applications for medium range, high data rate customers. A number of clients need to extend their fiber-based networks to include new buildings and temporary sites. The TerraLink 3000 provides network professionals with an intuitive way to complement their existing physical-layer solutions. Integrating network devices via a simple line-of-sight link, the TerraLinks allow quick backbone expansions without the need for trenching permits or FCC licenses. Compared to traditional leased-line options, the benefits of incorporating these fixed wireless solutions can be seen in both the immediate increase in data throughput and the long-term cost savings."

"In addition to being used for high speed enterprise data networks, laser communication products such as the TerraLink 3000 will find increasing applications in last mile telecommunications service at data rates of OC-3, OC-12 and higher," added Eric Korevaar, AstroTerra president. "Laser communication systems can be deployed rapidly without licenses in locations where fiber connections are impractical and costly, or take too long to install. Laser systems like the TerraLink 3000 can also be used in conjunction with lower data rate microwave links to provide extremely high availability."

About AstroTerra

AstroTerra Corp. is a San Diego small business incorporated in July 1992. The company was founded with the goal of developing and manufacturing innovative high technology products for data communication. The TerraLink products incorporate technologies fostered by the STRV-2 satellite laser communications program, in which AstroTerra designed and developed hardware capable of transmitting and receiving secure data at 1 Gbps between low earth orbit and a ground site.