Lucent Technologies begins shipping LambdaUnite MultiService Switch to Deutsche Telekom

Lucent Technologies Inc. has supplied Deutsche Telekom with its first compact, next-generation optical transport system and switch, the LambdaUnite MultiService Switch (MSS). Deutsche Telekom will start testing the system in February to support and deploy broadband services in its global optical network.

LambdaUnite MSS, generally available to customers this week, provides a bridge between data-intense metro networks and high-speed optical core networks, connecting cities, campuses, and corporate networks to the larger, long-haul public networks. Developed by Bell Labs, the system brings together switching capacity, functionality, density, and flexibility into one box and an extremely small footprint, claim company representatives.

The product supports both SONET and SDH and enables service providers to upgrade their networks to 40 Gbits/sec.

"We have worked closely with a diverse set of customers to develop a next-generation optical system that is tailored to meet the changing needs of service providers," explains Timothy Sullivan, president, Optical Networking, Lucent Technologies. "LambdaUnite MSS gives our customers complete flexibility at a time when they are scrutinizing every network investment for the best value. Its 'plug and play' architecture allows them to build for today while still planning for the future."

The standards-based product is a combination of TDMoptical transport system with built-in switching capacity of up to 640 Gbits/sec per bay. LambdaUnite MSS' architecture handles a variety of different interfaces and can support bandwidth from
2.5 Gbits to 40 Gbits with the simple addition of a hardware pack.

For more information on LambdaUnite MSS, visit the company's Web site at www.lucent.com/products/lambdaunite.