Alcatel (Paris: CGEP.PA and NYSE: ALA) announced that its Alcatel 7670 Routing Switch Platform (RSP) has been selected by Belgacom, a supplier of global telecommunications solutions in Belgium, to expand its nation-wide ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) network. The multi-million Euro contract further is another in long-standing relationship between the two companies.
The Alcatel 7670 RSP will allow Belgacom to scale its existing Alcatel multiservice ATM network up to 450 Gb/s to meet demand placed on the core by the explosion of IP traffic. As part of the network expansion, Belgacom will deploy additional Alcatel 7470 Multiservice Platforms (MSP) to carry advanced IP services and aggregate digital subscriber line (DSL) traffic. In 2001, Belgacom increased its DSL-based Internet customer base to more than 100.000 by mid-July and expects to reach 200,000 customers by the end of year. DSL service is available to more than 85 percent of the population in Belgium. Alcatel is also the main supplier of DSL equipment to Belgacom.
Demand for high speed Internet access from both business and residential customers is driving Belgacom to expand its network capacity. Expansion of the ATM network is scheduled to begin immediately. Managed by the Alcatel 5620 Network Manager, deployment of the expanded network will seamlessly interoperate with Belgacom's existing installed base.
The multi-protocol Alcatel 7670 Routing Switch Platform is MPLS-enabled and designed for the core and edge of next generation multiservice networks. Integrating ATM and MPLS/IP into a highly scalable platform, the 7670 RSP offers unparalleled scalability and port density, and leverages Alcatel's extensive experience in delivering reliable, carrier class networking equipment.
About Belgacom:
Belgacom SA, headquartered in Brussels, is a supplier of global telecommunications solutions on the Belgian market. Belgacom mainly offers local, intercity and international voice and data services, cellular telephone services, satellite services, carrier services and all Internet-related services.
About Alcatel:
Alcatel builds next generation networks, delivering integrated end-to-end voice and data networking solutions to established and new carriers, as well as enterprises and consumers worldwide. For more information, visit www.alcatel.com.