BLACK BOX INTRODUCES NEW FREE SPACE ..

BLACK BOX INTRODUCES NEW FREE SPACE OPTICS RANGE Black Box Network Services has today launched the first in a new range of Free Space Optical Communications products. The first units in the family herald a significant breakthrough in the costs of this technology, offering all the equipment necessary for a high-speed, 100- megabit Ethernet link at less than a thousand pounds. Using Laser technology, the LWU0150 - TP Laser Link provides a secure means of linking two sites when it is cost prohibitive to lay cable or when it is physically impossible because of infrastructure such as railways, road or rivers. A major advantage of laser based optical solutions is the inherent high security, especially compared to radio links. The narrow angle of the beam makes it almost impossible to try to monitor covertly without breaking the link and being detected. A compact design and factory adjusted optic allows users to benefit from a simple and quick installation. Mains-power and an Ethernet connection are all that is needed to get the units up and running, even mounting brackets and fixings are included. With rapid deployment and no licensing issues, the LWU0150 - TP Laser Link is the ideal solution to linking distributed networks when landlines are unavailable, expensive or on long lead times. The low price means that it is also an ideal cost effective solution for temporary links. "As with any optical system, clear line of site between locations is required. Black Box will advise on the best location, and method of mounting and installing any supplementary cables. The continuing expansion of Black Box Network Services operations enables us to provide on site installation at any location throughout the UK." Commented Andrew Burton, Product Specialist at Black Box Network Services. Whilst this entry-level unit operates at distances of up to 150 metres the forthcoming range will include models that operate at distances as far as 5000 metres. The long-range models combine laser arrays in precision-engineered transmission heads to ensure reliable connection even in adverse weather conditions. ATM models as well as Ethernet connectivity voice support via E1, E2 and E3, will be available shortly. The LWU0150 - TP Laser Link is available immediately from Black Box Network Services. To order online visit www.blackbox.co.uk or call 0870 90 10 750. About Black Box Black Box (UK) Ltd. is part of the Black Box group of companies. Established in 1988, it is now the largest international subsidiary of the Black Box Corporation, a NASDAQ quoted company with worldwide sales revenues of $744 million in 2001/2002. Black Box is a leading worldwide network services company providing computer communications, networking services and related products to businesses of all sizes, operating in 132 countries throughout the world. More than 300 UK staff support a large customer base that includes most of the Times Top 1,000 UK companies. For further information visit www.blackbox.co.uk or call 0870 9010750. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Simon Larter/Dawn Flynn Black Box (UK) Ltd Motive Public Relations Tel: 0870 90 10 750 Tel: 0118 988 0230 Web: www.blackbox.co.uk Email: blackbox@motivepr.com ------------------------------------------------------------ This information was brought to you by Waymaker http://www.waymaker.net The following files are available for download: http://www.waymaker.net/bitonline/2002/12/03/20021203BIT00360/wkr0001.doc http://www.waymaker.net/bitonline/2002/12/03/20021203BIT00360/wkr0002.pdf