FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fluke Networks and Pearson Technologies Join the TIA Fiber Optics LAN Section

 
Arlington, VA, May 22, 2003: Fluke Networks, a leading manufacturer of fiber test, inspection and certification solutions, and Pearson Technologies, a fiber design and installation consulting company, have joined the Fiber Optics Local Area Networks (LAN) Section (FOLS) of the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA). The FOLS is a consortium of leading optical fiber, cable and components manufacturers that was formed nine years ago to provide users with information about the benefits of optical fiber in customer-owned networks. Other FOLS members include 3M/Volition, ADC, AMP/Tyco Electronics, Corning, Inc., Corning Cable Systems, Leviton Voice & Data, OFS, Optek Technology, Panduit, Ortronics, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave, and Transition Networks.  
 
"Fluke Networks is closely aligned with the goals of the FOLS," said Bob Jensen, Standards and Technology Development Manager for Fluke Networks. We are interested in serving the fiber LAN market and helping to educate users about the importance of fiber optic installation and testing. We felt that joining FOLS would broaden our reach to end users and installers and help us to positively impact the industry overall."  
 
"As a consultant who conducts fiber optic training, I know how much end users and system designers need vendor-neutral industry resources such as FOLS," said Eric R. Pearson, president of Pearson Technologies. "I have worked with FOLS on several important projects and am looking forward to being more involved with the group's initiatives now that I am a full member."  
 
"We are delighted that Fluke Networks and Pearson Technologies have joined our membership," said John Struhar, chair of the FOLS and Distinguished Member of Technical Staff at OFS. "The strength of FOLS lies in the diversity of our members and our ability to bring an informed perspective to end users and system designers. Fluke Networks, as a worldwide provider of fiber optic test equipment, contributes a wealth of expertise in testing tools and installation practices. Pearson Technologies, in their role as fiber optic trainers and consultants, will give us direct insight into the installer mindset. I am looking forward to working with both companies."  
 
Struhar added that both Fluke Networks and Pearson Technologies are already integral to several section initiatives. "We're pleased to announce that Eric Pearson is helping us update our popular fiber vs. copper cost models, which were introduced last year," said Struhar (see http://www.fols.org/pubs/costmodel.html). "Prices for fiber optic cable, components and electronic equipment continue to drop, making the cost justification for fiber stronger than ever. In addition, Bob Jensen has helped us conduct research on end-user interest for a Tri-Speed Optical Ethernet standard, which FOLS proposed to the TIA FO 4.2.2 committee. Based on that input, a task force is now starting work on the new standard."  
 
For more information on the Fiber Optics LAN Section and to learn how to join, please contact Sharon Grace at (703) 907-7721, or download an application from our web site at http://www.fols.org.  
 
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The FOLS focuses on educating end users and influencers about the technical advantages and affordability that optical transmission brings to local area networks and fiber-to-the-desk applications. Member companies of the FOLS include 3M/Volition, AMP/Tyco Electronics, Corning, Leviton Voice & Data, Micro Linear Corporation, OFS, Optek Technology, Panduit, Ortronics, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave and Transition Networks. Visit the FOLS at http://www.fols.org.  
 
TIA is the leading trade association serving the communications and information technology industry, with proven strengths in market development, trade shows, domestic and international advocacy, standards development and enabling e-business. Through its worldwide activities, the association facilitates business development opportunities and a competitive market environment. The association provides a market-focused forum for its more than 1,000 member companies that manufacture or supply the products and services used in global communications. TIA represents the communications sector of the Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA). Visit us at http://www.tiaonline.org.  
 
Note: The opinions expressed in this release are those of the Fiber Optics LAN Section of the Telecommunications Industry Association and are not necessarily those of the entire TIA membership.