New Harmonic Node-based Ethernet Switch Enables Fast, Lower-Cost Entry into High-Speed IP Services
Multiport System Extends Harmonic's Line of Ethernet Connectivity Solutions for Cable Environments
Harmonic Inc. (Nasdaq:HLIT) today announced the PWRBlazer(TM) Data Port, a node-based Ethernet solution that enables cable operators to access new markets and generate incremental revenue while leveraging their existing HFC network infrastructure. The new PWRBlazer Data Port gives operators a fast and lower-cost entry into the high-speed IP services market. It also extends the range of Harmonic's Ethernet connectivity solutions, which includes the highly advanced and scalable CURBSwitch(TM), designed specifically for cable environments.A standards-based, dual-port Ethernet switch that delivers up to 100 Mbps of IP network access, the PWRBlazer Data Port will enable cable operators to offer services that can open new markets and expand their customer base. At the same time, it will help operators cost-effectively broaden their service offerings to existing customers. The PWRBlazer Data Port can interface directly with standards-based switching and routing equipment at the head-end as well as standard 10/100Base-T subscriber-side equipment such as firewalls, hubs, routers and computer-hosted Ethernet controllers. The environmentally hardened switch fits in Harmonic's existing node platforms, which can be strand-mounted, installed in street cabinets or placed underground.
"This new Ethernet connectivity solution addresses a key challenge for multiple system operators (MSOs) -- how to develop new markets with a relatively low up-front investment," said Patrick Harshman, president of Harmonic's Broadband Access Networks Division. "By providing bandwidth many times that of a T-1 line, the PWRBlazer Data Port lets network operators deliver revenue-generating IP network access to small and mid-size businesses, campuses, office parks and buildings, as well as multi-unit residences. Because Harmonic is a leading provider of nodes to MSOs around the world, there is already a large base into which the PWRBlazer Data Port can be installed."
Scalable Node-Based Ethernet Solution Meets Increasing Bandwidth Needs
The PWRBlazer Data Port is a compact single-slot module with a 100-Mbps full-duplex fiber upstream interface and two 10/100Base-T auto-negotiating downstream interfaces. The system can be added quickly and easily to existing Harmonic node platforms. Depending on the node and number of available slots, operators can install multiple PWRBlazer Data Port controllers as needed.
As their customer base diversifies to include more businesses and the demand for bandwidth increases, network operators can upgrade to Harmonic's modular and highly scalable CURBswitch(TM) Ethernet Switch. Extending the operator's options even further, the CURBswitch can be scaled from four to 24 ports, each offering Fast Ethernet connectivity, with a two-port Gigabit Ethernet upstream link.
The PWRBlazer Data Port will be featured in Harmonic's booth (#637) at Cable-Tec Expo 2002, June 5-7, 2002, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. It can also be seen in Harmonic's booth (#13143) at SUPERCOMM 2002, June 4-6, 2002, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia.
About Harmonic Inc.
Harmonic Inc. is a leading provider of digital video, broadband optical networking and IP delivery systems to cable, satellite, telecom and broadcast network operators. Harmonic's open standards-based solutions for the head end through the last mile enable customers to develop new revenue sources and a competitive advantage by offering powerful interactive video, voice and data services such as video-on-demand, high-definition digital television, telephony and Internet access.
Harmonic (Nasdaq:HLIT) is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif., with R&D, sales and system integration centers worldwide. The Company's customers, including many of the world's largest communications providers, deliver services in virtually every country. Visit www.harmonicinc.com for more information.
This press release contains forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the benefits of the DataPort for cable operators such as access to new markets and customers and the generation of incremental revenue, the extension of Harmonic's Ethernet connectivity solutions, features of the DataPort such as interfaces to headend and subscriber equipment, and the ability to upgrade to Harmonic's CurbSwitch product, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. In addition, actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of the risk factors set forth in documents that Harmonic files with the SEC, including reports on Form 10-K and 10-Q.
Note to Editors: Product and company names used here are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
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