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PARIS, September 7, 2009 - Actelis Networks®, the leading global supplier of Ethernet over copper solutions, today announced at Broadband World Forum Europe (Stand 122) that NetCologne, a telecommunications service provider headquartered in the economic region of Cologne/Bonn, Germany, has deployed Actelis’ Ethernet over copper solutions. Actelis’ industry-leading Ethernet Access Devices (EADs) and next-generation Ethernet aggregation platforms for copper-based networks are enabling NetCologne to ubiquitously deliver high-performance Metro Ethernet services across its growing footprint.

As a regional network service provider, NetCologne examined several options, including deploying new fiber-optic lines for extending broadband services to its business customers. However, pulling new fiber proved to be cost prohibitive for less populated areas, so NetCologne, known for its innovative fiber-based FTTB network in Cologne, looked for a cost-efficient complementary solution for those areas. In order to deliver fiber-like services, along with improved reliability and Service Level Agreements (SLAs), NetCologne chose to leverage its copper network and deployed Actelis’ carrier-class ML600 EADs and ML2300 Ethernet aggregation platforms, paired with SDU400 services module for full system redundancy.

“Actelis provided NetCologne with the best Ethernet over copper solutions to improve our network’s performance,” said Oliver Kuhl, project manager at NetCologne. “Built into every Ethernet access system we are deploying, Actelis’ EFMplus technology allows NetCologne to reach more customers and provide more enhanced broadband services, while keeping operational and capital expenditures to a minimum.”

By exploiting Actelis’ EFMplus™ technology, which provides increased rate, reach and reliability, NetCologne is now delivering unprecedented symmetrical broadband services to its valued customers, according to Joe Manuele, senior vice president of worldwide sales at Actelis.

“Actelis’ Ethernet over copper solutions provide NetCologne with greater flexibility, scalability, as well as investment protection, giving them the ability to tailor solutions to meet varying customer requirements, along with the ability to upgrade individual service levels on demand,” said Manuele.

The Actelis Ethernet in the First Mile (EFM) systems are being shipped and supported by Quante Networks, a Hanover-based telecommunications systems integrator and longtime partner of Actelis. Quante Networks, a 100% subsidiary of the larger 3M Group trading in more than 70 countries, provides a full range of telecommunications services across Europe. Manfred Brandt, managing director of Quante Networks, cited the carrier-class redundancy and powerful management features found in Actelis’ EFM products as key factors in using the Silicon Valley-based developer for NetCologne’s network enhancement.

“Quante Networks is often selected by service providers like NetCologne because of our hard-won reputation for flexibility, quality of service, and resiliency,” commented Brandt. “We believe that Actelis’ solutions help Quante maintain this reputation, when providing best-in-class Ethernet over copper solutions to European service providers.”
When it comes to providing Europe’s leading service providers with carrier-class EFM solutions for delivery of higher bit rate broadband services, Actelis’ Manuele believes that the company is quickly becoming a driving force in Europe’s fast growing market for broadband.

“Actelis is playing an important, ongoing role in helping both regulators and EU-based service providers like NetCologne roll out affordable, enhanced broadband services, which is leading to greater broadband penetration across the continent.”
                                                                                                      
About NetCologne
As a regional, fixed network operator, NetCologne provides the economic area of Cologne/Bonn with future orientated communication technology. Products range from telephone services, mobile telephony, Internet, cable TV and data services to complex corporate networks and tailor-made telecommunications solutions. The company employs approximately 800 employees. For further information, visit www.netcologne.de.