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Network hardware industry

Lightyear Communications Deploys Integrated Network in Eight US Cities

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Lightyear Communications, an integrated communications provider, has launched its initial eight network sites in major US cities, offering small and medium-sized businesses integrated services. The new packetized edge network provides greater flexibility, efficiency, and cost savings compared to traditional network services. With its cutting-edge technology, Lightyear's network allows customers to connect their premises equipment directly through an Integrated Access Device (IAD), transmitting all data, internet, and voice via Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM). By utilizing equipment from reputable companies like Accelerated Networks, Lucent Technologies, and Cisco, Lightyear aims to provide a first-rate network experience to its customers.

Key Takeaways:

  • Lightyear Communications has deployed its initial eight network sites in Anaheim, Atlanta, Boston, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Louisville, and Newark.
  • The network is designed to provide integrated services to small and medium-sized business customers, offering greater flexibility and efficiency.
  • The packetized edge network uses Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) to transmit all data, internet, and voice traffic.
  • Lightyear is utilizing equipment from Accelerated Networks, Lucent Technologies, and Cisco to deliver a first-rate network experience.
  • The network allows customers to connect their premises equipment directly through an Integrated Access Device (IAD).
  • The AN3220 Multiservice Access Platforms (MSAPs) from Accelerated Networks are used as voice gateways on the Lightyear network.
  • The AN20, AN24/28, and AN30 IADs from Accelerated Networks are used to integrate voice, data, and internet services.
  • The AN32 has inverse multiplexing over ATM (IMA) capabilities, allowing for greater scalability.
  • The combination of these products allows for dynamic bandwidth allocation, resulting in quicker connections and more efficient utilization of available bandwidth.
  • The ATM backbone of Lightyear's network consists of Lucent's industry-leading CBX 500 Multiservice Wide Area Network (WAN) switches.
  • Accelerated Networks' AN-3220 MSAP voice gateways are also deployed on the network.
  • Additional components include telemetry, a remote test system, and high-capacity Cisco 7576 routers.

Statistics:

  • Lightyear's network covers eight US cities, with customers expected to be on the network by September.
  • The company has signed a $10 million contract with Accelerated Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ: ACCL) for equipment.
  • The network uses Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) to transmit all data, internet, and voice traffic.
  • Lightyear's network allows connection of customer premises equipment directly through an Integrated Access Device (IAD).
  • The network offers a scaleable foundation for next-generation networks, utilizing equipment from reputable companies like Accelerated Networks, Lucent, and Cisco.

Sources:

  • Lightyear Communications, "Lightyear Communications Deploys Integrated Network in Eight US Cities," Business Wire, July 10, 2000.
  • Accelerated Networks, "About Accelerated Networks," www.acceleratednetworks.com.
  • Lucent Technologies, "About Lucent Technologies," www.lucent.com.
  • Cisco Systems, Inc., "About Cisco," www.cisco.com.

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