ECI Telecom to Provide South Central Communications with ROADM-based Packet-Optical Network in Utah  

PETAH TIKVA, ISRAEL – June 17, 2008 – ECI Telecom, a global provider of networking infrastructure solutions, today announced another ROADM win in North America.  South Central Communications (South Central), one of the largest telecommunication companies in the State of Utah, has selected ECI Telecom’s XDM ® All-Range™ ROADM (Reconfigurable Optical Add Drop Multiplexer) and Converged Multi-Service Transport Platform (MSTP) solution for their fiber transport network. 

The state-of-the art XDM platform, a key element in ECI's 1Net NGN (next-generation network) product line up,  will allow South Central to provide data-rich  services to businesses, health and education institutes, as well as 'triple-play' offerings, such as IPTV and high-speed Internet, to residential users. This solution provides South Central with the added flexibility necessary to modify and scale its network, so it can quickly and cost-effectively respond to local demand in real time. 

In addition, ECI's XDM solution offers South Central the unique capability to join together its ROADM-based optics, Ethernet and SONET infrastructure into a single platform. This multi-function capability is one of the key requirements of ECI's 1Net framework value proposition.  The converged platform allows South Central to enjoy both the high capacity and reliability of their optical network, together with effective bandwidth utilization of packet traffic.

“ECI's XDM solution delivers a cost effective infrastructure that can dynamically adapt to changing market needs” said Jody Davis, Network Operations Manager, South Central Communications.  "By leveraging the platform's integrated long-haul capabilities and multi-service functionality, we are able to significantly reduce our total network cost while increasing our service agility – a significant advantage in today's competitive environment."

As part of the agreement, South Central will deploy ECI's class-leading 10-degree WSS ROADM in all major nodes across the network, allowing for forecast-tolerant, easy and quick provisioning of services.

The deployment of ECI's XDM All-Range solution will allow for OPEX (operating expenses) reduction stemming from improved provisioning cycles, and CAPEX (capital expenditure) savings generated by the platform's capabilities for cost effective deployment of the carrier's 1,700 km fiber network built.

ECI's XDM solution will be managed under a multi-technology, multi-layered network management system - ECI's leading LightSoft® Network Manager. LightSoft's unique approach provides simplified management of the optical layer, enabling end-to-end provisioning under a single management platform. The unified graphical interface also delivers network operators with improved efficiencies by providing users with a comprehensive, single-view of the optical channels and available resources.

“We are proud to enable South Central to maximize their service potential by providing them with a ‘Build-As-You-Grow’™ converged optical solution,” said Dave Robison, General Manager, RBU Americas, ECI Telecom. “By allowing the convergence of different network types onto one hybrid platform, South Central will have the long term flexibility required to meet the growing broadband needs in their market.”

South Central is leveraging the XDM’s integrated platform with Ethernet and SONET functionality in a 10-degree ROADM DWDM system, to support 40, 10-Gbps wavelengths over a 300-mile network, delivering a powerful and flexible metro/regional ROADM solution. 

About ECI Telecom

ECI Telecom delivers innovative communications platforms to carriers and service providers worldwide. ECI provides efficient platforms and solutions that enable customers to rapidly deploy cost-effective, revenue-generating services.  

Founded in 1961, Israel-based ECI has consistently delivered customer-focused networking solutions to the world’s largest carriers.  The Company is also a market leader in many emerging markets.  ECI provides scalable broadband access, transport and data networking infrastructure that provides the foundation for the communications of tomorrow, including next-generation voice, IPTV, mobility and other business solutions. For more information, please visit www.ecitele.com.

About South Central Communications

South Central Communications (South Central Utah Telephone Association, Inc.) is one of the largest employers and telecommunication companies in rural Southern Utah. We offer communications products and services ranging from local and long distance telephone service to cellular communications, Internet access, cable TV and high-tech business communication solutions.

Please note: certain statements contained in this release may contain forward-looking information with respect to plans, projections or future performance of the Companies mentioned. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, product and market acceptance risks, the impact of competitive pricing, product development, commercialization and technological difficulties as well as other risks.