Covaro Networks Introduces Two "Etherjack" Products

Covaro Networks, a start-up based in Richardson, Texas, introduced two products to help carriers deliver Ethernet services over fiber, copper or leased DS1s/DS3s. These services include 10/100/1000BT Ethernet, GbE, 100FX, Ethernet Metallic eXtensions (EMX), DS1, DS3 and OC-3/12 (STM-1/4). Covaro's "Etherjack" technology allows carriers (or enterprises) to transport and manage Ethernet services using traditional management methods for T1/T3 services. The system provides an Ethernet demarcation point, which allows in-service performance monitoring, and out-of service fault isolation and diagnosis for Ethernet services.



Covaro's new products include the CC-16000, which can reach customers from central office locations, co-located equipment spaces, outside cabinets and basement-located equipment in multi-tenant offices. For the customer premise, Covaro's CC-101 uses available copper facilities and bonding technology to deliver intelligent Ethernet services up to 18,000ft. - much farther than the 328ft. capabilities of 10/100BT interfaces. In addition to providing a solution for copper riser and outside plant applications, the CC-101 provides the demarcation point between a carrier and its customer.



Covaro said its products are in trials with 10 customers throughout North America. http://www.covaro.comIn February 2004, Covaro Networks raised $25.3 million in Series B funding for its Ethernet services management system. Covaro develops products that address hybrid networks containing both Ethernet and traditional T1/T3 based services. Covaro's unique Etherjack functionality allows carriers (or enterprises) to transport and manage Ethernet services using traditional management methods to reduce turn-up, test and maintenance costs. The new funding round was lead by Centennial Ventures -- a new Covaro investor with offices in Denver, Colo., and Austin and Houston, Texas. Participation also came from existing investors CenterPoint Ventures, InterWest Partners and Sevin Rosen Funds. This comes in addition to first-round funding that netted the company $16.7 million.