DiscoveryCom's LoopMaster Enables Large-Scale Deployment of DSL Networks: The Industry's FIRST Total Loop Management System.

Business Editors and High Tech Writers

HUNTSVILLE, Ala.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 24, 2000

DiscoveryCom, a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of telecommunications products for next generation communication networks, announces LoopMaster(TM), the first total loop management system.

Just as the widespread availability of broadband services has revolutionized worldwide communications, DiscoveryCom's LoopMaster solution will revolutionize the deployment of DSL broadband services. This new market for loop management systems has been created by service providers faced with multitudes of subscribers clamoring for inexpensive, guaranteed DSL service.

The LoopMaster system enables the service provider to:

-- Reduce installation and operation costs

-- Speed DSL service turn-up

-- Fulfill quality of service (QOS) expectations

-- Maximize effectiveness of installation and maintenance

manpower

From preservice line qualification to in-service performance monitoring, the LoopMaster system enables the service provider to manage every aspect of the local loop infrastructure. LoopMaster is compatible with all services, from POTS, ISDN, and T1 to all flavors of DSL, and is compatible with all access equipment vendors. The LoopMaster CO equipment, collocated with the DSLAM in the central office, allows the service provider to remotely access and test any loop as if they were on-site connecting test instruments onto the wire pairs at the distribution frame. In addition to extensive testing, the LoopMaster system enables remote cross-connects of the copper wire pairs between the MDF and access equipment.

DiscoveryCom is the only vendor that provides a total loop management solution featuring:

-- A modular, high-density central office platform

-- Remote test interface for automated two-ended testing of the

local loop

-- Integrated Web-based interface for flexible and easy-to-use

management and control

-- Fast and accurate cable fault detection through an integrated

time domain reflectometer (TDR) card

-- Simple migration path for testing next generation network

services such as voice over DSL (VoDSL)

-- Enhanced cross-connect capability

"Our primary focus is to make DSL deployment painless and give service providers a competitive edge by delivering a total loop management product," said Marty Roberson, President and CEO. "The LoopMaster system is unique in its ability to perform true end-to-end testing without dispatching a technician. In addition, its integrated Web management delivers an intuitive, graphical interface accessible from any location using a standard Web browser -- no proprietary software is needed."

About DiscoveryCom

Headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, DiscoveryCom is a technology company involved in the design, manufacture, and distribution of communications products that enable service providers to rapidly install and maintain broadband DSL services. Founded in 1995, the company distributes a number of portable broadband test instruments as part of a strategic relationship with Agilent Technologies. The hand-held products are distributed worldwide through Agilent, and are used by major telephone companies and service providers in more than 21 countries.