CommWorks Corporation and Lucent Technologies to Conduct Interoperability Testing On Mobile IP Solution; Focus of Collaboration is on cdma2000 1X Networks

Business Wire, April 2, 2001

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

MOUNT PROSPECT, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 2, 2001

CommWorks Corporation, a 3Com (NASDAQ:COMS) Company, today announced an interoperability testing agreement with Lucent Technologies designed to deliver a Mobile IP, standards-based third-generation (3G) high-speed wireless network offering for service providers worldwide.

The testing agreement is focused on cdma2000 1X networks, based on a 3G standard approved by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). This technology will enable Lucent cdmaOne(TM) service providers to deliver simultaneous audio, video and text data services at rates of up to 144 kilobits per second, or twice as fast as today's dial-up PC modems. It will also provide advanced packet data technology for enhanced network efficiency and allow service providers to enjoy a nearly two-fold increase in wireless channel capacity.

The CommWorks 3G wireless solution for standardized cdma2000 networks serves as the next evolution of cdmaOne digital cellular and PCS networks. Based on the Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) standard, cdmaOne networks today provide coverage in more than 40 countries and boast more than 71 million subscribers around the globe. (Source: CDMA Development Group, October 12, 2000).

"Interoperability testing with Lucent's CDMA networks will provide network operators a proven path to 3G, at a pace that matches their business needs and the demands of the market," said Irfan Ali, president, CommWorks Corporation. "Service providers can selectively deploy 3G technology in areas where there is sound business justification, and use existing networks to supplement 3G coverage for ubiquitous service."

Under the terms of the agreement, CommWorks and Lucent will conduct interoperability testing between Lucent's Flexent(TM) CDMA network equipment and CommWorks' high-speed data solution, thereby affording Lucent's CDMA operator customers a ready-made option for introducing an "always on" mobile Internet connection to mobile devices.

In a cdma2000 1X network, Lucent's base stations will connect directly -- via a new radio port (RP) interface -- to a packet data serving node (PDSN). The PDSN will perform the traffic aggregation function, similar to that handled by circuit switches today. The PDSN uses authentication, accounting and administration (AAA) servers for user authentication and traffic management, then forwards traffic to a gateway router/home agent (GRHA) at the designated IP network.

As part of this offer to CDMA operators, Lucent will provide the radio access network equipment, including base transceiver systems, base stations and switching controllers (Mobile Switching Centers) and its core data infrastructure. The Lucent Core Data Infrastructure will also include the NavisRadius(TM) 3.2 AAA Server, an RFC compliant Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting (AAA) solution for integrated remote access and security. It has a comprehensive feature set and a flexible architecture enabling Internet service providers and carriers to define and deploy dial, broadband and mobile data services quickly and efficiently.

CommWorks will provide access to Mobile IP Data infrastructure through its Total Control(R) 1000 3G Packet Data Serving Node, an inter-networking device that connects CDMA wireless network infrastructure equipment to an IP network. It will also provide the CommWorks(R) 4302 Foreign Agent Control Node, which provides the control mechanism for managing multiples PDSNs.

About CommWorks Corporation

CommWorks Corporation, a 3Com Company, supplies network service providers around the world with access infrastructures and IP services platforms that open new business opportunities and help them establish unique positions in a competitive marketplace. With flexible multi-service hardware platforms and modular software components, the comprehensive CommWorks architecture makes it possible for service providers to integrate their existing infrastructures with innovative technologies to deliver an array of next-generation IP-based enhanced services to their customers. For further information, visit www.commworks.com

About 3Com Corporation

3Com simplifies how people connect to information and services through easy-to-use, connectivity products and solutions for consumers and commercial organizations. The company also provides access infrastructures and IP services platforms for network service providers. For further information, visit www.3com.com or the press site at www.3com.com/pressbox.> 3Com, CommWorks and Total Control are registered trademarks of 3Com Corporation. NavisRadius and Flexent are trademarks of Lucent Technologies. cdma2000 is a trademark of the Telecommunications Industry Association. cdmaOne is a trademark of the CDMA Development Group.

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