Q Data Distribution has announced the availability of 3Com`s next-generation ATM application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) technology and advanced new switching products. ASIC delivers end-to-end policy-enabled, multi-layer switching in integrated Ethernet/ATM networks.
QDD product manager Soibhan Hanvey says the new technology enables enterprises to deploy very large-scale voice/video/data networks based on fast, low-cost Ethernet switching for desktop connectivity and highly scalable ATM switching for the core of networks.
"The solution is distinguished by its ability to provide high-performance switching between Ethernet and ATM and by transparently prioritising the different traffic and guaranteeing quality of service between the two network technologies," she adds.
"The ability to dynamically apply policy controls to the widening range of system-critical, business-critical and converged applications is quickly becoming a fundamental networking need," Hanvey explains.
"Policy-based networking promises to allow enterprise network performance to be optimised in business-oriented dimensions, such as service levels, functional priorities and organisations. Vendors that are mapping CoS indicators from Ethernet to ATM are providing a key step towards full policy-based networking implementation."
Featuring 3Com`s third-generation ZipChip ASIC technology, the new products include interface modules for 3Com`s SuperStack II Switch 1100/3300 and CoreBuilder 7000HD switches. The new offering includes the industry`s first software selectable OC-3/OC-12 ATM expansion module for connecting converged networks.
Also announced were interface modules for 3Com`s FIRE ASIC-based CoreBuilder 3500 switch, along with enhancements to CoreBuilder 9000 switches that include a Category 5 copper OC-3c interface and support for ATM configurations of the newest CoreBuilder 9000 seven-slot chassis.
"Today, Ethernet/Fast Ethernet clearly rules the desktop, but ATM is implemented in many of the largest enterprise network backbones. Ethernet is simple and economical but ATM is reliable and highly scalable and also ideal for supporting demanding QoS requirements," she notes.
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