ATLANTA and HOLMDEL, N.J. -- VPIsystems(tm), the provider of product and network lifecycle management software for the communications industry, today announced that Tropic Networks(tm) Inc., is using the VPI Design and Deployment Center in their TropicVantage(tm) service to supply carriers with practical, strategic insights into network optimization. VPI's Design and Deployment Center connects people, tools and data with a web-based platform and a comprehensive range of software modules that contain all the tools required to design, configure, plan and deploy products and networks. Tropic Networks provides metro networking solutions which enable carriers to build revenue opportunities by extending the life of existing networks and services while adding compelling new IP, Ethernet and wavelength services. Tropic Networks uses VPI's network planning software in its TropicVantage service to bring a thorough understanding of optical design issues to the table, from optical components and WDM systems through to transport service and access networks. "By using the most advanced network planning tools from VPIsystems, we can invest more time and effort in what we do best - helping our customers build robust metro area networks (MANs)," said Dan Oprea, vice president of System Architecture at Tropic Networks. See the new VPI Design and Deployment Center at SUPERCOMM 2002 in Hall C, Booth # 10910. Tropic Networks will be exhibiting in Hall C, Booth # 12751. Tropic Networks Inc. VPIsystems Inc.