Redback Launches Carrier Ethernet Switch to Drive Network Convergence

Redback Networks Inc., acquired by wireless giant Ericsson Corp. in January 2007, is unveiling its first in a series of carrier Ethernet switches. The first carrier Ethernet switch is designed to drive wireless and wire-line network convergence.

The company also has created upgrades that will enable its entire family of SmartEdge routers (and the new carrier Ethernet switch family) to use a single operating system. Operators will also be able to update and maintain the devices without taking them out of service -- a capability Redback’s been working on for three years.

“We want to shape and drive the unification of fixed and mobile networks,” said Doug Weills, director of technology marketing at Redback, in reference to the new product line’s debut carrier Ethernet switch, the SM 480. “We’re also targeting several regional wholesale opportunities and mobile backhaul.”

Carrier Ethernet Switches for Wire-Line Network Convergence

Redback claims it has racked up 100 joint wins in 55 countries with parent Ericsson since the acquisition, claiming one third of the deals are for mobile backhaul applications. The vendor’s targeting wholesaling in Europe, Asia and South America.

The carrier Ethernet switch, which already includes functionality common to the vendor’s widely-deployed edge routers, will be outfitted with terabit carrier Ethernet switching capability in 18-24 months. Weills expects two carrier Ethernet switch models smaller than the 480 and one larger unit.

Redback says the carrier Ethernet switch has received Metro Ethernet Forum 9 and 14 certifications. It’s in trial overseas and should be available in the third-quarter.

The carrier Ethernet switch has 14 slots, with 12 used for line cards and two for route processor modules. Its backplane provides 480 gbps of aggregate bandwidth, according to Redback. The carrier Ethernet switch can support up to 256,000 VLANs and features hot-swappable modules for in-service changes.

The SM 480 smart carrier Ethernet switch can be used to build metro aggregation and transport networks. The new carrier Ethernet switch employs layer 2 subscriber management for wholesale broadband services and high levels of QoS and reliability needed to enable and support video and data applications says Redback.

The carrier Ethernet switch’s IP over Ethernet architecture is designed to boost network availability and reduce downtime, according to the vendor.

Redback would not divulge pricing for the carrier Ethernet switch.

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