At its Networks3 user conference last week, 3Com took the wraps off a three-phase integration plan for migrating to a Gigabit Ethernet over copper. According to company officials, the 1000 Base-T implementation plan will increase Gigabit Ethernet over copper speeds by a factor of 10, without the need for rewiring.
3Com also announced enhancements to its CoreBuilder 9000 switch line.
The addition of a new Gigabit Ethernet MultiLayer Switch module is intended to boost performance by increasing routing and switching to 8 million packets per second, per module. The module also tags and prioritises time-sensitive applications without a performance impact, according to 3Com officials.
Also new is an eight-slot chassis CoreBuilder 9000 for high-performance data centres with Gigabit Ethernet and multilayer switching.
Other enhancements to the CoreBuilder family include Version 3.0 software, a six-port FDDI multilayer switch module, Layer 2 switch modules, and a 48-volt DC power supply.
The Gigabit Ethernet MultiLayer Switch module will be available in December for $US19,995. The eight-slot CoreBuilder 9000 chassis, available by the end of the month, will be priced at $6,995.