QUEBEC CITY, Canada, Nov. 18, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EXFO Inc. (Nasdaq:EXFO) (TSX:EXF) announced today the release of features that bring real-time connectivity to its FTB Ecosystem, which is comprised of the entire line of FTB platforms (FTB-1, FTB-200 and FTB-500), EXFO Connect and additional process-enhancing software. This latest connectivity enhancement makes EXFO's FTB Ecosystem the most connected line of platforms on the market.
- The new 3G feature allows for ongoing, real-time wireless connectivity, eliminating the need for wired platforms to communicate while at the job site.
- The VPN feature enables direct connections to companies' software databases and architecture.
- The geolocation function provides the same accuracy and conditions as a regular satellite-based GPS receiver. This feature also works seamlessly with EXFO Connect's Test Equipment Manager, allowing for better asset management and an enhanced data-reporting process, combining coordinates and other useful data acquired through GPS tagging.
"EXFO fundamentally believes that the distinction of tomorrow's test platform will lie in its seamless connectivity and the availability of value-added test applications that enable customers and improve their capability through time," said Etienne Gagnon, Vice-President of EXFO's Wireline Division and Corporate Marketing. "By implementing full connectivity on our popular FTB Ecosystem, EXFO goes a step further in this direction by providing complete integration of test capabilities within our customers' infrastructures."
At the heart of EXFO's FTB Ecosystem lie smart, Windows-based, modular test platforms that evolve with operators' future needs by running generic or specific software applications. The FTB-1 is a handheld dedicated platform geared toward Tier-1 FTTH and Ethernet applications, whereas the FTB-200 is designed for the supertech testing optical, Ethernet and SONET/SDH. And the FTB-500 is the ultimate multimodular expert test platform for true next-generation network testing.
The FTB Ecosystem's second element is EXFO's revolutionary EXFO Connect software, which addresses a number of specific productivity issues, automation requirements, remote test applications and customer support needs using software as a vector to work faster and make things simpler. The final building block of the FTB Ecosystem consists of a variety of additional value-added downloadable applications, functionalities and options that can be added to the platforms to facilitate and automate processes for various needs. All the above features are unique to EXFO's FTB Ecosystem and provide the edge needed for tomorrow's network deployments.
With the addition of real-time connectivity features (3G, VPN, Wi-Fi and GPS), the FTB Ecosystem now allows technicians to work even more efficiently by allowing them to connect easily, no matter where they are.
About EXFO
Listed on the NASDAQ and TSX stock exchanges, EXFO is among the leading providers of next-generation test and service assurance solutions for wireless and wireline network operators and equipment manufacturers in the global telecommunications industry. The company offers innovative solutions for the development, installation, management and maintenance of converged, IP fixed and mobile networks—from the core to the edge. Key technologies supported include 3G, 4G/LTE, IMS, Ethernet, OTN, FTTx, and various optical technologies (accounting for an estimated 35% of the portable fiber-optic test market). EXFO has a staff of approximately 1800 people in 25 countries, supporting more than 2000 telecom customers worldwide. For more information, visit www.EXFO.com.