Madge.connect Announces Gigabit Networking for Token Ring

Edge: Work-Group Computing Report, March 6, 2000

Madge.connect, part of Madge Networks N.V. (NASDAQ NM: MADGF), a global network solutions provider, Tuesday announces the Smart GigIntegrator, a high performance Gigabit backbone-class switch, the Smart WorkStream 100Mbps workgroup switch and connectivity for Madge switches, which are planned for availability in H2-2000. These products are part of Madge.connect's commitment to delivering state of the art Gigabit solutions for all Token Ring users.

Smart GigIntegrator will address the needs of the IP generation's mission critical and business multimedia applications by providing integration of Madge.connect's family of Token Ring switches. It will build upon the application benefits of Token Ring such as large frame size and superior resilience, and utilize Token Ring's native prioritisation service to carry multimedia IP applications. The efficiency benefits provided by the large frames used within Token Ring will be maintained.

Madge.connect's options for connecting Token Ring into the Smart GigIntegrator will integrate all Token Ring networks, including those from other vendors. Furthermore, the Smart GigIntegrator will also integrate with Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet networks, allowing users complete flexibility - regardless of the make up of their existing infrastructure.

The Smart WorkStream will provide next generation 100Mbps Token Ring workgroup connectivity, in a stackable form factor, for cost-effective 100Mbps concentration into a Gigabit network via a Gigabit Integration module. This switch will enable Token Ring customers to easily scale performance throughout their network.

"Token Ring customers trust their networks because of the excellent business service they deliver," said Andy Rawll, Senior Product Marketing Manager, Madge.connect. "With these products, customers can continue to invest in their Token Ring networks, knowing they have the flexibility to support multi-media services as and when their business demands it. Our commitment to meeting the needs of all Token Ring customers also means that the ability to integrate multi-vendor Token Ring networks into Gigabit is very important to us."

Product availability is planned for H2 - 2000.

Founded in 1986, Madge Networks (NASDAQ NM: MADGF) is a global managed network services and product solutions provider specializing in mission-critical enterprise needs. The company's goal is to optimize the implementation of enterprises' voice, video and data networks with the ultimate aim of converging all networking needs on Internet Protocol (IP) solutions. The company's main business centers are at Wexham Springs, United Kingdom, Eatontown, New Jersey and San Jose, California. Information about Madge's complete range of products and services can be accessed on the World Wide Web at www.madge.com