Spirent Communications Introduces Highly Scalable Ethernet Access Concentrator Test Solution for Triple Play Services.

CHICAGO -- Solution Validates the Readiness of Ethernet Access Infrastructure to Support Carrier-Scale and Quality of Service for Converged Voice, Data and Video Services

Spirent Communications (NYSE:SPM) (LSE:SPT) today announced the launch of Spirent TestCenter Ethernet Access Concentrator Test System. This latest test system provides simple, precise and economical testing of new packet based Service Provider access devices.

The Spirent TestCenter solution was designed to address the emerging trend of "smarter" and higher density access concentration devices, which are driving 10 Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) aggregation at the service provider edge. Testing these high-density access devices such as DSLAMs, BRASs and now Ethernet Aggregation Routers (EARs) for their resiliency in supporting sufficient QoS for converged services requires a test tool able to manage large port counts, complex applications and comprehensive routing protocols.

"Network Equipment Manufacturers know that beyond creating large scale tests above the capability of the access device, they need to create greater testing efficiencies as their networks scale," said Mark Fishburn, vice president of technical strategy, Spirent Communications. "This is achieved by streamlined firmware testing using an industry standard methodology, rapidly identifying and troubleshooting the root cause of a failure. Spirent TestCenter also helps test engineers reduce test times and learning curves through wizards that simplify set up for complex testing configurations and centralize the testing function."

The system provides high-density 1Gigabit Ethernet and 10 Gigabit Ethernet test modules. The Gigabit modules have 8 ports, with each test port capable of generating traffic at line rates up to 32,767 independent application streams -- a major leap in scalability over past industry benchmarks. Each port provides full support of real-world traffic scenarios -- including video streaming, messaging, multicasting and high-priority enterprise data -- as well as advanced features such as QoS settings and data plane traffic (VLAN and IPv4/6 routing protocols). Different configurations of the system can support IGMP, PPPoX and DHCP.

By using Spirent TestCenter Ethernet Access Concentrator Solution, service providers can reduce deployment risks by evaluating key performance parameters under typical or extreme subscriber traffic loads for minutes, hours or even days. Beyond peak loading, service providers must create bundled service traffic profiles and measure the impact of QoS per subscriber, while determining whether connection rates can support expanding subscriber bases at various bandwidth levels. Spirent TestCenter solves these challenges through the highest port density in the industry, per-port traffic scalability, integrated test methodology and a common automation framework.

This solution is featured in one of 20 new Spirent Triple Play test scenarios that cover the breadth of testing required to deliver required QoS to the customer. Testing each network element, end-to-end systems and managing the quality of services in the deployed network are all critical in today's battle for reliable delivery of bundled triple play services.

About Spirent Communications

Spirent Communications (www.spirentcom.com) is a global provider of integrated performance analysis and service assurance systems that enable the development and deployment of next-generation networking technology such as Internet Telephony, broadband services, 3G wireless, global navigation satellite systems, and network security equipment. Spirent's solutions are used by more than 1,500 customers in 30 countries, including the world's largest equipment manufacturers, service providers, enterprises and governments. Based in Rockville, Maryland, Spirent Communications reported 2004 revenue of $460 million and has 1,700 employees worldwide. The company is the largest business group of Spirent plc, traded on the London and New York Stock Exchanges (LSE:SPT) (NYSE:SPM) (CUSIP number:84856M209). www.spirent.com. Spirent Communications' sales to the United States government are made through Spirent Federal Systems. www.spirentfederal.com

Spirent, Spirent Communications and the Spirent logo are trademarks of Spirent plc. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are held by their respective companies. All rights reserved.

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