Optus Selects Harris Stratex Networks as Exclusive Supplier

Optus Selects Harris Stratex Networks as Exclusive Supplier

Eclipse is the only product to support required multi-service functionality for network migration from TDM to all-IP

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., July 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Harris Stratex Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ:HSTX) , the leading independent supplier of turnkey wireless transmission solutions, today announced a multi-year contract with Optus to deliver digital microwave radio transmission services. Optus is expanding its 3G mobile network to cover up to 98 percent of the Australian population and has selected the Harris Stratex Eclipse(TM) platform to provide backhaul for next-generation IP-enabled mobile base stations.

Harris Stratex Networks will also supply their advanced ProVision(R) Element Management System. ProVision has been developed specifically for the management of microwave radio networks, and delivers advanced features for monitoring and control of both TDM and Ethernet traffic.

Kah-Rhu Tan, Optus Network Director, Access and Transmission Engineering said, "As a leading integrated communication operator in Australia, microwave radio is a key technology that enables us to deliver mobile, fixed-line and broadband services nationwide where fibre is just not available. We look forward to working with Harris Stratex to support delivering IP services to our customers."

Raj Kumar, vice president, Asia Pacific Sales and Services, Harris Stratex Networks said, "We look forward to a long and successful relationship with Optus. We have demonstrated our commitment to the Australian market with our new Sydney office that will provide local technical and post-sales support. This award again demonstrates that Eclipse is the leading microwave solution for next-generation backhaul evolution available today, with unrivalled support for both TDM and Carrier Ethernet transport in a single integrated platform."

Eclipse is able to provide all the traffic interfaces to support Optus' legacy and future transport requirements, including support for traditional TDM-based voice services alongside high-speed transport for Ethernet/IP data. Eclipse also met Optus' requirements for advanced features to support efficient, cost effective and resilient network designs that enabled the smooth introduction of new IP services.

The Eclipse family provides a comprehensive solution for wireless backhaul networks, aimed at reducing both capital expenditure and ongoing operational expenses, while also supporting both current and future networking needs. Eclipse is renowned for a number of market firsts for TDM wireless transport, including Super-PDH(TM) transport and compact nodal networking.

More recently, Eclipse has been leading the market with its unique support for Carrier Ethernet over Wireless, being the first microwave solution to be certified by the Metro Ethernet Forum to both MEF Standards 9 and 14. Eclipse Native Mixed Mode(TM) transports Ethernet and TDM traffic in its natural form for the simplest solution available on the market today for operators looking to evolve their backhaul networks to all-IP for next generation mobile broadband needs.

Eclipse is now the wireless backhaul solution of choice for more than 70 leading mobile network operators around the world.

ProVision provides a number of advanced features for monitoring and controlling both TDM and Ethernet transport, such as end-to-end circuit provisioning, Ethernet utilisation reporting and RMON performance monitoring as standard.

About Optus

Optus is an Australian leader in integrated communications -- serving more than seven million customers each day. The company specialises in a broad range of communications services including mobile, local, national and long distance telephony, business network services, internet and satellite services and subscription television. For more information please visit www.optus.com.au

About Harris Stratex Networks, Inc.

Harris Stratex Networks, Inc. is the world's leading independent supplier of turnkey wireless transmission solutions. The company offers reliable, flexible and scalable wireless network solutions, backed by comprehensive professional services and support. Harris Stratex Networks serves all global markets, including mobile network operators, public safety agencies, private network operators, utility and transportation companies, government agencies and broadcasters. Customers in more than 135 countries depend on Harris Stratex Networks to build, expand and upgrade their voice, data and video solutions. Harris Stratex Networks is recognised around the world for innovative, best-in-class wireless networking solutions and services. For more information, visit www.HarrisStratex.com .

Eclipse(TM), ProVision(R), Native Mixed Mode(TM) and Super-PDH(TM) are registered trademarks of Harris Stratex Networks or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Harris Stratex Networks, Inc.

CONTACT: Tom Cheesewright or James Delves, both of Noiseworks,
+44 1628 628 080, hsx@noiseworks.com, or Tonya Loggains of Harris Stratex
Networks, +1-919-767-3278, tonya.loggains@hstx.com

Web site: http://www.harrisstratex.com/
http://www.optus.com.au/

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