***** AURIGA PRESS RELEASE *****

AURIGA GOES GIGABIT WITH NEW RANGE OF SMART SWITCHES

MILTON KEYNES, UK - 21 May 2004 - Auriga Europe Plc, the Milton Keynes-based distributor of structured cabling, networking systems and accessories has announced the introduction of a new range of Gigabit switch solutions from manufacturer TRENDware International.

Despite the increasing popularity of wireless networks, most I.T. professionals still prefer wired networks for their greater bandwidth. TRENDware has been at the forefront of offering 10/100/1000Mbps solutions since Gigabit Ethernet technology was first introduced. Gigabit Ethernet allows for simple network migration, scalability and flexibility to handle new applications and data types – all considerations that are increasingly important to the network administrator.

The new Auriga switch range is ideal for businesses that are looking to eliminate data bottlenecks and improve performance across the network. It is a common misconception that Gigabit speed requires Cat6 cabling – in most applications, the new switches will operate over existing Cat5E cabling.

Available in 16 and 24 port versions, the new Gigabit smart switches are ideal for network segmenting. Featuring auto-sensing and auto-MDIX ports, each switch can be easily configured using a proprietary Windows-based management and monitoring utility, allowing port speed, port-based VLAN and QoS to be set. A version with 24 10/100Mbps ports, 2 10/100/1000Mbps ports and 2 mini GBIC ports (accepting optional Gigabit fibre modules) is also available.

Also featured in the Auriga range are desktop Copper Gigabit Ethernet switches. Available in 5 or 8-port versions, the Copper Gigabit Ethernet switches allow users to connect servers to the Gigabit ports to increase network performance or cascade Copper Gigabit switches together to create high bandwidth Gigabit backbones.

All switches carry a 5-year manufacturers’ warranty.

For further sales information call 0870 121 9990.

About Auriga

Auriga has led the way in the distribution of fibre optic products throughout Europe for well over a decade.  Established in 1989, the company enjoys long-term strategic relationships with leading manufacturers such as 3M, Novar (Brand-Rex, MK, and Ackermann), Fluke, Fitel, Noyes, plus Tyco AMP Electronics. Auriga distributes its own range of OPTRONICS product to further complement the branded range.

Press contact:

Jim Edwards

Product Marketing Manager, Auriga Europe Plc

E-mail: jim.edwards@aurigaeurope.com

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