February 8, 2001 -- Electric Lightwave, a broadband integrated communications provider, announced the selection of Unisphere Networks, a leading provider of IP infrastructure to enable broadband data and voice services, nad help accelerate the convergence of voice/data over Electric Lightwave's network. Electric Lightwave will install Unisphere's SMX-2100 service mediation switch within its backbone in multiple markets throughout the Western U.S., beginning the first quarter of 2001.

Layering onto Electric Lightwave's existing Class 5 infrastructure, the SMX-2100 should improve the flow between circuit and packet-based traffic and initially generate revenue for the company by providing Internet delivery and primary rate interface (PRI) capabilities within the Electric Lightwave network. The SMX-2100 will better position Electric Lightwave for network scalability and the future introduction of new packet telephony applications. Unisphere's SMX will also provide the infrastructure for Electric Lightwave to build-out new voice services over its existing data networks.

Unisphere Networks' Service Mediation Switch (SMX) product family is designed to provide a cost effective, high-density, next-generation voice-data switching solution. Designed to mediate between circuit- and packet-based networks, the SMX family provides a telephony infrastructure for wireline and wireless networks, allowing carriers to design, deploy and manage next-generation networks and services. The SMX leverages the advantages of IP Telephony by putting all voice traffic on the "new" Internet, enabling carriers to deliver new revenue opportunities.

Unisphere's SMX solution should also allow service providers and carriers to direct IP, ATM, and TDM traffic between voice and data networks and bundle voice and data services for subscribers. Its reach across traditional voice and data networks gives existing carriers a clear migration path to converged networks and facilitates market entry for upstart ISPs, CLECs, and communications service providers. The focus of Unisphere's voice switching platforms is on applications such as Internet Offload, Packet Tandem, voice services, VoIP, enabling carriers to address different market segments.