Tekelec and Bellcore Form Strategic Alliance Companies to Deliver Solutions for Converging SS7 and Internet Protocol Networks.

MORRISVILLE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 1, 1999--Tekelec (Nasdaq/NM:TKLC) and Bell Communications Research, Inc. (Bellcore) announced today a strategic marketing and sales alliance which significantly advances the convergence of signaling system no. 7 (SS7) and internet protocol (IP) networks.

Through this alliance, Tekelec and Bellcore will deliver intelligent network (IN), advanced intelligent network (AIN), and wireless intelligent network (WIN) services to the public switched telephone network, leveraging the advantages of the internet protocol. Initially, the companies exchanged interface specifications that will enable the interworking of Tekelec's EAGLE IP7 Gateway and Bellcore's ISCP(R) System. The joint solution utilizes the IP network to transport SS7 messages between the companies' products to deliver cost-effective, end-to-end, turnkey IN, AIN, and WIN solutions. The companies have also agreed to work together to study ways to further integrate EAGLE IP7 Gateway technology into other Bellcore products, including next-generation IP-based "virtual" switching solutions.

According to Cecil Boyd, vice president and general manager of Tekelec's Network Switching Division, "This strategic alliance enables Tekelec and Bellcore to provide cost-efficient IN, AIN, and WIN services such as 800 and virtual private networks to the marketplace. Interconnecting our products through the IP network drives down initial capital expense and recurring expenses by taking advantage of the efficiencies of the IP network. Using IP to transport messaging between Tekelec's STP and Bellcore's Intelligent Network Services Control Point also provides potential for more options related to maximizing utilization of the highly reliable ISCP mated platforms. The EAGLE IP7 Gateway positions service providers for the convergence of voice and data networks and ensures network reliability and security."

"By aligning our ISCP System with the enhanced network signaling products provided by Tekelec, Bellcore will expand its ability to deliver cost-effective, IN network applications and services to providers across the globe. Additionally, wireless and wireline service providers can bridge to Bellcore's multi-network and switch-independent IN products to enable rapid deployment of critical IN services," said Steve Chappell, Bellcore vice president and group president, Services and Business Management Systems.

Tekelec is a leading supplier of innovative network switching solutions and advanced diagnostic systems that enable rapid delivery of advanced communication products and services for the global communications marketplace. Tekelec's EAGLE(R) platform is designed to meet the complex requirements of the converging IP / SS7 network and traditional SS7 networks, enabling wireline, wireless, and IP network operators to deliver intelligent network services. Tekelec's diagnostic systems are used by communication suppliers and service providers to design, install, and maintain their communications equipment and networks.

Bellcore, a SAIC company, is a leading provider of communications software, engineering, consulting, and training services based on world-class research. Bellcore creates business solutions that make information technology work for telecommunications carriers, businesses, and governments worldwide. ISCP products are currently deployed in the U.S.A, Canada, Europe, and the Middle East. These products are enabling service providers to deliver a wide array of AIN, WIN, HLR, ETSI Core-INAP, 800, and LIDB SS7 Intelligent Network services today; and they will provide the comparable services enabling capabilities for the emerging data networks of the future.

EAGLE is a registered trademark of Tekelec. The Tekelec logo and EAGLE IP7 are trademarks of Tekelec. Visit Tekelec's web site at http://www.tekelec.com. ISCP is a registered trademark of Bellcore. Visit Bellcore's web site at http://www.bellcore.com.