OTTAWA -- Zarlink Semiconductor (NYSE/TSX:ZL) today announced a new platform of full-service Layer 2 Ethernet switches optimized for the delivery of time-sensitive voice and multimedia traffic in packet-based networks. Global customers are now evaluating Zarlink’s newest Ethernet devices for use in equipment facilitating the migration from TDM (time division multiplex) infrastructure to VoIP (voice-over-IP) and “triple play” voice, video and data services.

Zarlink’s full-service Layer 2 Ethernet switch family consists of devices with a wide range of features and Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet port options. The platform is being designed into IP-DSLAMs (digital subscriber line access multiplexers), media gateways and FTTU (fiber-to-the-user) network equipment.

Ethernet switching used in new applications is rapidly replacing more expensive technologies. For example, service providers are migrating to IP-DSLAMs from ATM-based DSLAMs, while VoIP is superseding traditional analog telephone service. Ensuring higher-quality services over Ethernet demands more intelligent networking equipment capable of efficiently prioritizing and processing high volumes of time-sensitive voice and multimedia traffic while supporting different classes of service.

“Ethernet is now transporting much more than data,” said Bill Lee, product line marketing manager, Zarlink Semiconductor. “Our new full-service Ethernet platform integrates advanced QoS and traffic management features that enable unrestricted transmission of the network’s most critical traffic.”

Zarlink Semiconductor Inc.