Bay Networks: First to support three protocols simultaneously

Bay Networks, the only vendor that supports X2, K56flex and V.90 protocols simultaneously, has completed extensive testing for V.90 in an effort to accelerate widespread compatibility of 56K technology and will be available in South Africa soon. The impending ratification of V.90 as the new standard for 56K modem communications is expected to end the confusion about competing 56K protocols. It is, however, inevitable that internet service providers (ISPs) and consumers will continue to use all three protocols for at least another two years. The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Study Group 16, which met recently in Geneva, Switzerland, to define V.90, has been developing a standard for 56K modems since April 1997. Bay has also collaborated with 3Com to bring 56K industry standard V.90 technology and compatibility to modem users around the world. Bay's broad range of interoperable, standardised solutions will give ISPs and consumers the ability to quickly roll out 56K technology without being concerned about compatibility issues. While Bay continues to be the only vendor to offer a choice between technologies, it is also encouraging widespread compatibility of V.90 modems. Bay currently offers a choice of either K56flex or X2 protocols on separate versions of the Adapteon 5399 and the Adapteon 8000 remote access concentrator (RAC) systems. By continuing to support either of the proprietary 56K protocols, no immediate upgrade to V.90 is required.