Sycamore intros metro/regional multiservice switch

SEPTEMBER 24, 2007 -- Sycamore Networks Inc. (search for Sycamore) has unveiled its SN 9000 Intelligent Multiservice Switch, a new networking platform designed to address growing demands for flexible bandwidth capacity and service resiliency in metro and regional networks.

Sycamore asserts the platform brings new functionality to multiservice switching â�� including bandwidth capacity licensing, service modularity, and any-service, any-port features â�� in a system designed for applications in the 80- to 320-Gbit/sec bandwidth range. The system is currently shipping to a Tier 1 European wireless operator for production deployment, the company adds.

The SN 9000 is designed to cost-effectively integrate multiple functions in a single, highly compact system. These functions include low-order (VT/VC) and high-order (OC-n/STM-n) switching, add/drop multiplexing, advanced Ethernet services, and integrated optical transport. The platform addresses multiservice aggregation and network migration challenges while leveraging end-to-end networking software to enable service differentiation for fixed-line and mobile service providers, MSO/cable operators, government agencies, and utility network operators, Sycamore says.

Sycamore also claims that the SN 9000 systems architecture provides the foundation for a broad range of intelligent multiservice switching features and benefits, including:

Any-service, any-port flexibility simplifies circuit/packet service provisioning and improves operational efficiency.
"Unique," pay-as-you-grow bandwidth licensing reduces initial deployment costs without imposing fixed node or slot configurations.
In-service scalability from 80 to 320 Gbps facilitates cost-effective expansion.
Layered service provisioning minimizes operational complexities of new service introduction.
Converged IP service grooming optimizes bandwidth aggregation and capacity utilization.
Diverse protection and restoration options -- ring, mesh, and hybrid -- deliver high availability and service resiliency.
Common networking (BroadLeaf) and management (SILVX) software, shared by all Sycamore optical switches, enhances operational efficiencies and end-to-end service management.

"Our research indicates a number of factors are driving network operators to invest in next-generation optical networking products designed to meet pressing requirements, including flexible bandwidth for broadband and IP video, new revenue-generating services, and reduced operations costs," said Michael Howard, principal analyst at Infonetics Research. "The SN 9000 extends Sycamore's optical switching portfolio for multiservice switching in metro and regional networks. The platform has new software intelligence, a proven control plane, and is designed to support operators expanding their mix of traditional and next-gen communications services."

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