Aurora Networks Introduces 100GHz DWDM Optical Networking Platform; Efficient, Cost-Effective System Dramatically Reduces Fiber Consumption in High-Capacity Networks.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

SCTE Cable-Tec Expo 2004

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 10, 2004

Aurora Networks, a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced optical transport systems for broadband networks, introduces a new 100GHz dense wave division multiplexing (DWDM) optical networking platform at Cable-Tec Expo, June 16-18, 2004 in Orlando, Florida.

The 40-channel transport system dramatically reduces fiber consumption in high capacity networks by enabling the deployment of up to 40 unique optical wavelengths on a single optical fiber over long distances. This advanced Aurora technology enables cable system operators to scale their networks to meet the demands of present and future services without the need to install additional fiber.

"Every product in Aurora's DWDM line has been engineered to support 40-channel DWDM distribution without concerns for compatibility and interoperability," said Ron Wolfe, Senior Product Manager for Aurora Networks. "The rollout of this new platform allows our MSO customers to quickly and easily deploy high-bandwidth services over existing networks without costly fiber upgrades."

The Aurora 100GHz DWDM optical networking platform is comprised of several products that mount in the Aurora universal chassis, as well as modules for Aurora's nodes. Aurora's patented universal chassis with advanced back plane system significantly reduces optical interconnect cabling through the use of integrated multiplexing capabilities.

AT3510 Series Narrowcast DWDM Transmitters provide high output power (+10dBm) from the Aurora universal chassis for long haul applications, and can overcome passive losses associated with optical broadcast narrowcast applications.

Mounted in the Aurora universal chassis, the DX3515 Series Digital Transponder converts any standard optical communications wavelength carrying digital signals from 155Mbps to 2.125Gbps to a 100GHz spaced ITU wavelength to be fed over links up to 100km with 40 optical carriers per fiber.

The DT3515 Series Digital Transmitters digitize two separate RF carrier spectrums of either 42MHz or 50MHz and transmit the digital signal over a single output from the Aurora chassis on any of the 40 available wavelengths. These transmitters can be used for links up to 200km, carrying up to 80 unique node returns on a single fiber.

The chassis-based OP3524 and node-mounted OP4538 Optiplex broadcast/narrowcast optical combiners enable highly cost-effective management of broadcast and narrowcast service groups using a simple, all-optical process, for both hub sites and node enclosed "virtual hub sites."

The DX4515 Series Digital Transponder converts digital return and/or Ethernet signals in the node to a DWDM carrier on any of the 40 available wavelengths over distances of up to 100km. This capability allows multiple nodes to share a common return path fiber, making the deployment of fiber optic technologies deeper into the network a cost-effective strategy.

The chassis-mounted OP3500 and field deployable OP9500 Series Optical Passives provide low-loss, high-uniformity coupling, multiplexing and demultiplexing solutions, as well as customized passives that enable cable operators to provide advanced services more cost-effectively than with competing products. They also make serving smaller communities economically infeasible. In addition, all Aurora field optical passive products, including 100GHz DWDM passives, are fully tested and guaranteed over the temperature range of -40 to +85 degrees Celsius.

"Our new high-bandwidth platform meets the needs of our customers looking to increase network capacity and reduce capital expenditures," said John Dahlquist, Vice President of Marketing for Aurora. "We continue to listen to our customers and to respond quickly to meet their needs with cost-effective, state-of-the-art optical networking products."

Visit Aurora

For more information on this cost-effective optical networking platform, visit the Aurora Networks booth (#1157) at the Cable-Tec Expo, July 16-18, 2004 in Orlando, Florida. To schedule an appointment, please contact Cora Wickersham at 408-235-7026 or [e-mail].

About Aurora Networks

Founded in November 1999, Aurora Networks designs, develops, and markets advanced optical communications systems for traditional hybrid fiber/coax (HFC) networks and advanced, fiber-deep broadband networks. The company's advanced technology delivers significant increases in bandwidth and functionality while providing substantial cost savings when compared to traditional HFC network technology. Aurora Networks is privately held, with headquarters at 2803 Mission College Blvd., Santa Clara, California 95054. For more information about Aurora Networks or its products, e-mail [e-mail], phone [phone] or visit www.aurora.com.