Press Releases

For Immediate Release - Santa Clara, CA
December 3, 2003

Aurora Networks Introduces CWDM Ethernet Access System

Open Standard Ethernet-to-the-Business Solution Uses Existing Infrastructure to Deliver Revenue-Generating High-Speed Data

Santa Clara, CA. — December 3, 2003 — Aurora Networks, a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced optical transport and distribution systems for broadband networks, announces the introduction and deployment of the CWDM Ethernet Access System. This new, all-optical, Ethernet-to-the-business solution uses the fiber optic portion of existing hybrid fiber/coax (HFC) infrastructure to bring high-speed data access to business customers over multiple coarse wavelength division multiplexing (CWDM) wavelengths.

Providing for flexible and cost-effective deployment of revenue-generating data services, the Aurora CWDM Ethernet Access System addresses the growing need for high-speed data access by small, medium and large businesses, as well as schools, medical facilities, and other public and private venues. Cable operators can use existing fiber to the node, including fibers already in use for analog video transport, to simultaneously deliver high-speed data to multiple business customers, saving on installation and deployment costs.

Every electrical and optical segment of the Aurora CWDM Ethernet Access System is based on open standards. By conforming to the non-proprietary IEEE Ethernet and ITU Wavelength standards and open standard remote monitoring (RMON) and simple network management protocol (SNMP) monitoring and management techniques, existing Ethernet and optical technologies are brought together to provide a complete open standard solution that can be used worldwide, delivering data at speeds up to 100 Mbps and GbE data rates.

"This is the first time all-optical, high-speed, full duplex open standard Ethernet services have co-existed with 1310 nm analog video services on the same fibers in an existing HFC fiber network," said Wim Mostert, Director of Technical Business Development for Aurora Networks. "The CWDM Ethernet Access System is yet another addition to the Aurora portfolio of products to support cable and telecommunications customers with innovative solutions for the delivery of video, voice and data services."

The Aurora CWDM Ethernet Access System has been installed in several systems and is operating successfully, delivering high-speed Ethernet services to high-profile business customers. The CWDM Ethernet Access System provides the cable operator a complete system solution that includes:

•  Aurora’s family of CWDM Media Converters for Fast Ethernet and GbE transport, with 10 different CWDM wavelengths per fiber
•  Aurora’s family of indoor and outdoor optical passives, including CWDM Multiplexers and Demultiplexers, Single Channel CWDM Optical Filters and 1310/CWDM Optical Filters.

With no active equipment in the field, customers’ data services are not affected by system power outages. In addition, this scalable solution provides optical wavelength access per subscriber, allowing for easy data rate increases over the same wavelength, without affecting other customers.

Aurora’s remote monitoring and SNMP management capabilities provide monitoring, control and detailed analysis of key system elements, including the customer premises unit, and can be easily incorporated into existing network management systems.

Visit Aurora
A demonstration of the CWDM Ethernet Access System can be seen in Aurora’s hospitality suite at The Western Cable Show, December 2-5, 2003, Anaheim, California. To schedule a private demonstration during the show, please contact Cora Wickersham at (408) 235-8026 or cwickersham@aurora.com. Aurora is a silver sponsor of the show.

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 network technology. Aurora Networks is privately held, with headquarters at 2803 Mission College Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95054-1838. For more information on Aurora Networks or its products, e-mail info@aurora.com, phone 408.235.7000 or visit www.aurora.com.