Fixed Wireless Equipment

RAD Data's RIC-T3/ETH interface converter promises to reduce the cost of connecting routers and switches to T3 services.

by Wayne Kawamoto [April 8, 2002]

RAD Data Communications announced the introduction of its RIC-T3/ETH interface converter that may reduce the cost of connecting routers and switches to T3 services.

According to the company, its RIC-T3/ETH converter allows connection to the router's Ethernet port rather than an expensive T3 port. This results in substantial cost savings across the ISP's network.

Another advantage being touted by the company is that customers who use the RIC-T3/ETH should be able to fully use their T3 bandwidth. In this regard, the RIC-T3/ETH is designed to achieve 94.5 percent to 99.75 percent bandwidth utilization of the T3 link, without the heavy overhead that may be associated with packet or cell-based technologies.

The company says that many planned and existing wireless deployments lack a viable solution for transporting high-speed Ethernet. And a common method used by carriers to extend their networks to areas lacking wireline infrastructure is through the use of wireless T3 links. With this in mind, the RIC-T3/ETH may play an important role in helping ISPs and carriers to extend their networks.

"ISPs serving rural areas have a new business opportunity by delivering broadband infrastructure and Ethernet services over wireless links," says Gabriel "Gaby" Junowicz, Business Development Manager for Cellular and Wireless Networks at RAD Data Communiations. " RAD's new converter also helps ISPs to cut costs of expensive equipment, such as high volume router interfaces, in their POPs. The RIC-T3/ETH allows connection to the router's Ethernet port rather than an expensive T3 port. This results in substantial cost savings across the ISP's network."

"The growth in demand for LAN access to T3 services is driving many organizations to look for cost-effective means to connect their routers and switches within the campus as well as to the broadband networks," says Motty Anavi, Director of Product Management. "If they don't have fiber reaching every point in the campus then the RIC-T3 and a wireless modem are an excellent alternative. The RIC-T3/ETH is engineered at a price point several thousand dollars below the alternative of a high cost T3 router module or ATM access device."

Availability and pricing
The RIC-T3/ETH converter is a available now and priced at $2,200.

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