IBM Launches Initiative to Become Leading
Communications Technology Supplier
EAST FISHKILL, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 2, 1999--IBM today announced a series of initiatives and products
in support of its drive to become a major technology supplier to the communications industry.
Communications technologies are rapidly being reinvented, fueled by the growth in Internet use, the explosion of e-business
and surging demand for converged voice and data services. IBM's Technology Group--a top OEM technology supplier--is
addressing this opportunity with several solutions that leverage its semiconductor technologies and networking system
design expertise:
A new family of programmable communications processors for networking products--like routers, hubs and
switches--so they can be enhanced through software rather than costly, time-consuming hardware upgrades;
A Communications Research and Development Center, bringing together IBM's worldwide research, chip
development and network system design skills to focus on new technologies for components used in communications
products;
Efforts to encourage the development of new applications for communications processors by working with third
party companies to establish software standards.
Supported by IBM's state-of-the-art chip technologies and worldwide customer design centers, these steps are designed
to add performance and function to networks like the Internet by enhancing the communications equipment on which they
run.
``Demands on networks are exploding, but for network providers, offering higher speeds or new services often means
replacing their equipment,' said Christine King, vice president of wired communications for IBM Microelectronics. ``This is
because much of the function of these boxes is provided by highly-customized chips. By offering a more standardized set of
chips with the flexibility to alter their function through software, we're making it possible for network providers to upgrade
their equipment faster and easier.'
IBM's product family is highlighted by the IBM Network Processor, a high-speed multi-protocol processing engine for
gigabit switch routers and other network hardware, and the IBM Processor for Network Resources, a highly integrated
processor that provides end-user connection to servers and desktop switches. Another key component is the IBM 28.4
Gbps Packet Routing Switch--a high performance protocol-independent switch and switch fabric (including subsystem
chips, system companion chips, software, and test tools) that support a variety of network traffic. These complementary
products can be combined to deliver the enhanced functionality and performance required by network gear makers.
IBM also is planning for further advances in network communications technology by establishing the Communications
Research and Development Center. Comprised of scientists and engineers from IBM research and development centers in
Zurich, Haifa, Yorktown, NY and Raleigh, NC, the Center will concentrate on developing technologies for future network
communications components, such as ultra-scaleable switching systems and advanced switch and router products.
In a related announcement, IBM and C-Port Corporation revealed a common interest in defining standard application
programming interfaces (APIs), making it faster and easier to add new functions to networking systems through software,
rather than having to modify or replace existing hardware. The companies are also exploring ways to make their individual
network processor technologies work closely together, allowing equipment manufacturers to incorporate both into their
products. Finally, C-Port has selected IBM to build its C-5 Digital Communications Processor and intends to work with
IBM as its key technology provider to enhance future generations of the processor.
The lineup of products and solutions IBM introduced today will add to the previously announced PowerPC 405GP, a
standard product that combines a high-performance PowerPC microprocessor with a number of communications features,
all on a single chip.
IBM's development of network communications chips will be supported by its advanced process technologies, including
copper interconnect and silicon germanium (SiGe), as well as the company's leading chip packaging technologies.
IBM Microelectronics is a key contributor to IBM's role as the world's premier information technology supplier. IBM
Microelectronics develops, manufactures and markets state-of-the-art semiconductor and interconnect technologies,
products and services. Its superior integrated solutions can be found in many of the world's best-known electronic brands.
More information about IBM Microelectronics can be found at chips.ibm.com. |
