Narad Networks, Inc., a provider of business class broadband access solutions using switched Ethernet over cable, today announced it was granted by the US Patent and Trademark Office a key patent covering its HFC out-of-band data transmission and switching architecture.

The "Network Architecture for Intelligent Network Elements" patent pertains to Narad's method of transmitting data over coaxial cable, which combines legacy signals below 860 MHz with out-of-band high frequency data signals. The technology enables the transition of cable network architectures from broadcast topologies with contention-based network protocols to switched topologies to compete with incumbent telephone companies. Included in the patent are Narad's techniques for using modems and switches to implement noise-free channels in the upstream and downstream directions, creating dedicated bandwidth service levels.

"This very broad patent is part of Narad's fundamental technology which leverages the cable operator's existing coaxial cable to deliver business-class voice and data services and capture share in the T1 markets," said John Petrillo, chairman and CEO of Narad Networks. "Narad provides cable operators the advantages of a switching system for security and bandwidth efficiency as well as additional broadband spectrum to create new, symmetric capacity. We're very pleased the patent office has recognized our innovation with this key network architecture."

Narad has also been awarded a supporting patent "System and Method for Mapping End-User Identifiers to Access Device Identifiers," which allows policy servers, such as Narad's Service Delivery Platform, to track and maintain service level agreements (SLA) for specific users. Narad has over 20 additional patents pending.

About Narad Networks Narad Networks, Inc. provides cable operators with cost-effective solutions to create new, managed, symmetric capacity on existing cable networks. Narad enables the delivery of highly profitable broadband voice and data services over cable infrastructure while minimizing capital expenditures and accelerating free cash flow. The company's solution leverages the previously unusable frequency spectrum to overlay secure, switched Ethernet onto existing HFC networks. The solution can be installed in phases, only adding equipment to those portions of the plant that lie directly between the node and the business customer. Narad's solution enables cable operators to offer services such as Voice-over IP, T1/E1 voice, symmetric broadband Ethernet up to 100 Mbps, and virtual private networks. The Narad solution adds 400 Mbps symmetric capacity to each HFC node. Business customers include small-to-medium businesses (SMBs), mobile and WiFi operators, enterprise customers, schools and municipalities.

Founded in July 2000 and based in Westford, Massachusetts, Narad Networks is a privately held company with venture funding from Polaris Venture Partners, Argo Global Capital, and other leading venture capital firms. For more information, visit www.naradnetworks.com.