Metrobility intros converged network infrastructure solution for integrated voice and data transmission

March 4, 2004 Merrimack, NH -- Metrobility Optical Systems has introduced a solution to allow both voice and data to be transmitted through a single fiber pair. The solution combines the company's T1/E1 single-strand bi-directional wavelength multiplexer (BWDM) with an Ethernet BWDM to create an environment that allows TDM voice and high-speed data traffic to co-exist on a fiber pair, but traffic types are not intermixed.

In a fiber-optic data environment traditionally using a fiber pair, the data can be moved to a single strand, and the voice can go on the other strand, thereby eliminating the costs and possible disruption of installing additional fiber.

Where fiber is installed between buildings, this alternative can eliminate costly point-to-point T1 or E1 lines for each location by creating a single private voice and data network, say Metrobility representatives. The solution converts copper-based TDM traffic to an optical transmission, which makes it immune to EMI emissions and supports distance extensions up to 20 km.

"Our converged data/voice fiber network solution offers the reliability, interoperability, and security of a traditional voice network; the benefits of IP; and the manageability of a single network infrastructure" explains Alex Saunders, president and CEO of Metrobility. "Companies can leverage their existing TDM PBX equipment, switches, and routers to reduce capital expenditures and minimize drastic network changes that are both costly and disruptive. And because they are already utilizing a fiber infrastructure, the solution easily migrates to VoIP in the future."

Metrobility is currently shipping its complete line of BWDM interface and metro access products for Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, and T3/E3. The new T1/E1 BWDM products will be available for shipment 30 days ARO and are priced starting at $899.