Hypercom introduces industry's first stackable branch multiservice switch router solution; New IEN 2000 provides legacy LAN voice video consolidation over WAN

Business Wire, July 29, 1996

PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 29, 1996--Hypercom Network Systems, a leading provider of comprehensive branch network solutions, Monday announced the latest addition to its Integrated Enterprise Network(TM) (IEN) family of products.

The IEN 2000 is a stackable enterprise multiservice switch that expands the scalability and configuration options of the IEN family. IEN consolidates legacy, LAN and multimedia traffic and performs a wide range of switching, routing and networking functions.

IEN 2000 Meets Growing Demand For Combined Voice & Data Over Frame Relay

The IEN 2000 represents combined legacy, LAN and voice/multimedia support in a 2-slot chassis. Fully compatible with other IEN family members used for regional or central site concentration, additional slots can be added by stacking multiple units.

"We're seeing a growing demand for combined voice, fax and data over frame relay in smaller branches as well as at large branches and regional hubs," said Paul Wallner, president of Hypercom Network Systems. "The IEN 2000 represents increased choice and modularity across networks with branches of varying sizes.

"Along with our flagship legacy/LAN consolidation, the IEN 2000 supports our original TDM voice capabilities and recently expanded packetized voice support."

Wallner explained the cost-optimization benefits of stackability. "The IEN 2000 gives smaller branches more flexibility as they grow and adopt new technologies and strategies, such as voice over frame relay," he said. "This pay-as-you-grow approach helps network planners in designing and implementing flexible networking strategies rather than invest in unused capacity."

Flexible Architecture Performs Routing, Switching & More to Optimize Cost, Facilitate Management

In addition to supporting voice, fax, data and video, Hypercom IEN helps cost-optimize branch networks by combining the functionalities of multiple technological components into a single device.

The flexible IEN architecture acts as a FRAD, a multiprotocol router, a packet/circuit/cell switch, a LAN hub, a dial back-up modem, protocol converter, gateway, CSU/DSU, and provides data compression and DES encryption. By eliminating the need for separate devices from multiple vendors, IEN simplifies installation and on-going management.

IEN: Solid Roots for Growing Branch Networks

Hypercom IEN extends existing investments by supporting legacy protocols such as SNA, and various asynchronous and bisynchronous protocols, along with multiprotocol IP-routing. By also working with a variety of existing and emerging wide area services, such as frame relay, ISDN, X.25 and ATM, IEN further enables customers to design networks that exactly match current needs and provide for easy growth.

Pricing and Availability

Each 2-slot IEN 2000 chassis lists at $500. Hypercom will begin shipping the IEN 2000 in September.

Hypercom Network Systems

Hypercom Network Systems, a division of Hypercom Inc., provides advanced data communications technology to Fortune 1000 companies. Hypercom Network Systems' primary mission is to allow integration of legacy, client/server, and voice networks using a combination of packet switching, circuit switching and cell relay technologies.

Founded in 1978, Hypercom Inc. is a multinational company headquartered in Phoenix. The company continues to enjoy steady growth under the leadership of President and Chief Executive Officer Al Irato and co-founders George and Paul Wallner. Products are now sold in more than 50 countries and produce revenues in excess of $230 million annually.

CONTACT: Hammond Farrell Inc.

Liza Kurtz, 212/995-5680, ext. 210

E-mail: kurtz@hammondfarrell.com