AFL Telecommunications Acquires Draka’s OPGW Business

AFL Now #1 OPGW Manufacturer Worldwide

Spartanburg, South Carolina - April 30, 2009

AFL Telecommunications has signed an agreement to purchase Draka’s Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) business based in Monchengladbach, Germany. This acquisition positions AFL Telecommunications as the leading OPGW manufacturer worldwide, increasing its reach in additional countries of Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

"The combined business synergies will enhance our technologies, increase manufacturing efficiencies and leverage the value of what we offer our customers," said Jody Gallagher, AFL Telecommunications' President and CEO. "Not only will our capacity increase, but it will enable us to enhance our capability and flexibility along with our ability to meet the increasing demands of our customers." AFL Telecommunications currently manufactures OPGW cables in the United States and United Kingdom.

Optical Ground Wire is a dual functioning cable that serves as ground wire for power lines, while providing a path for the transmission of voice, video or data signals by incorporating optical fibers into the design of the cable. OPGW is placed at the highest point on power utility structures, allowing for fast, cost-effective installations with exceptional reliability.

With over 20 years of experience in the aerial cable market, AFL supplies a full range of OPGW products, hardware accessories, engineering and installation services.

Terms of the acquisition are undisclosed, and are subject to customary closing conditions and standard procedures due to local legislation. For additional information on AFL Telecommunications, visit www.AFLtele.com.

About AFL Telecommunications
AFL Telecommunications, a subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan, is an industry leader in providing fiber optic products, engineering expertise and integrated services to the Electric Utility, Broadband, Telco, OEM, Private Network and Wireless markets. AFL Telecommunications is headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina and has additional operations in the U.S., Mexico and the U.K.

Measurement QUADrupled!

AFL Announces the Noyes C-Series QUAD Testing Solution

Spartanburg, South Carolina - April 14, 2009

AFL Telecommunications is launching the Noyes C-Series QUAD test solution, including a compact QUAD OTDR and QUAD Certification Test Kit with the capability to mix and match to suit your network testing needs.

The C850 QUAD OTDR is a compact, full-featured QUAD OTDR with integrated single-mode and multimode Optical Light Sources, Optical Power Meter, Visual Fault Locator, and a large transflective touch screen display suitable for both indoor and outdoor operation. The C850 offers built-in Certification Auto Test functionality which can be used with another C850 or the C840 QUAD Certifications tester.

The C840 QUAD Certification Tester includes both single-mode and multimode Optical Light Sources, an Optical Power Meter and Visual Fault Locator. This unit is designed to perform Auto Test Certification in pairs such as in the C880 and C860 kits below. Or use the tester alone as a traditional power meter or light source to measure fiber loss, or as a Visual Fault Locator to find fiber breaks.

The C880 QUAD Certification Test Kit combines two C840 Certification Testers designed for Tier 1 testing and troubleshooting both multimode and single-mode fiber links.

Each tester includes a single-mode and multimode Optical Light Source, an Optical Power Meter and an integrated Visual Light Source, which can be used independently or combine two C840’s to perform two fiber Certification Auto Tests.

For the ultimate Tier 1 and Tier 2 test solutions, AFL created the C860 QUAD OTDR and Certification Test Kit which includes a C840 and a C850. This kit allows the user to perform Tier 1 dual wavelength multimode or single-mode Certification Auto Tests of two fibers in both directions, measure both loss and length of the fibers, and compare the results to industry standards, applications and user-defined threshold values to certify the fibers. With single-mode and multimode capabilities, the C860 supports simultaneous dual or single wavelength OTDR testing, fault finding and Auto Test Certification. The C860 kit includes cleaning and test accessories making it a comprehensive solution for testing premise networks.

For additional information on the new C-Series and our entire line of test equipment, visit www.AFLtele.com.

About AFL Telecommunications

AFL Telecommunications, a subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan, is an industry leader in providing fiber optic products, engineering expertise and integrated services to the Electric Utility, Broadband, Telco, OEM, Private Network and Wireless markets. AFL Telecommunications is headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina and has additional operations in the U.S., Mexico and the U.K.

AFL Introduces the Noyes Pro Installer Kit

Clean, Inspect and Test – all with one kit!

Spartanburg, South Carolina - April 9, 2009
AFL Telecommunications announces the Noyes Pro Installer Kit, an installation test kit complete with a wide selection of fiber optic testing, cleaning and inspection equipment, enabling technicians to verify the integrity of installed fiber networks. The kit consists of an OTDR with an integrated Visual Fault Locator, Optical Power Meter, Optical Light Source and fiber connector inspection scope as well as cleaning supplies and test accessories, all within a convenient, tough injection-molded ABS carrying case.

Single-mode or multimode ready, the installer kit is ideal for Tier 1 and Tier 2 testing of premises (building and campus) networks or certification and troubleshooting of FTTx PON networks. It also provides fast fault location, splice verification, and network documentation.

For additional information, visit CLICK HERE.

About AFL Telecommunications
AFL Telecommunications, a subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan, is an industry leader in providing fiber optic products, engineering expertise and integrated services to the Electric Utility, Broadband, Telco, OEM, Private Network and Wireless markets. AFL Telecommunications is headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina and has additional operations in the U.S., Mexico and the U.K.

AFL Selects Modular Integrated Solutions to Expand Its Data Center Capabilities

Spartanburg, South Carolina - April 7, 2009
AFL Network Services, Enterprise Division, a provider of telecommunications and maintenance services, announces an agreement with Modular Integrated Solutions, Inc. (MIS) to provide sales, installation and support services for Data Center in a Row (DCR). Installation and support services will be provided by AFL’s extensive technician network located in most major metropolitan centers throughout the United States.

"This partnership provides tremendous value for all of our current and future customers," said Rodger Gooch, Founder and President of MIS. "The stability and adaptability of the DCR design is perfectly matched with the performance strengths of AFL. We look forward to teaming with AFL Network Services to provide strong product and service combinations throughout the US."
The Data Center in a Row is a self-contained data center which includes all the essential components required to provide a total computer infrastructure complete with the following:

• A base module to support the cooling system, computer racks and fire detection/suppression and power distribution modules


• A mechanical cooling system (direct expansion) requiring no additional external mechanical cooling devices or chilled water or fluid cooling system for heat removal


• Standard commercially-available enclosed computer racks


• A single module housing an electrical distribution panel, fire detection and clean suppressing agent, surge suppression and back up cooling fan controls


• Plenum-rated power cables from the distribution panel to each computer cabinet and other support devices


• Return air modules to return the heated air to the cooling system


• Back up ventilation system complete with inlet dampers, low wattage fans and back draft dampers to provide sufficient ambient air flow through the cabinets to remove the heat generated by the computers in the event the mechanical cooling is not available

"Modular Integrated Solutions complements our existing business and provides added value for our customers," said Mike Booth, Executive Vice President of AFL Network Services. "With the Data Center in a Row, our customers will reap the rewards of a self-contained closed architecture system that provides air conditioning, power distribution, remote monitoring, fire detection and suppression in a single package, ultimately reducing their implementation and operating costs. It’s a must-have product for any data center."

The Data Center in a Row can be provided as a complete assembled system or can be assembled onsite. Additional sections (computer racks and mechanical cooling modules) can be added at a later date if additional electronic devices are added. With the addition of pin and sleeve electrical disconnects for the power cables and isolating valves for the mechanical cooling, the system can be relocated. By including the second electrical load center, the system can provide dual power feeds resulting in a dual buss system for higher tier rating and fault tolerance. The system can be provided with casters for easy re-location. The DCR is a closed architecture system. Therefore, it is more energy efficient than open architecture systems as it provides environmental control of the electronic equipment only, not the entire room.

Additional information on AFL and DCR can be found online.

About AFL Network Services
AFL Network Services is headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina. With 35 field offices in the U.S. and over 1300 employees, AFL provides telecommunications installation and maintenance services in the enterprise, wireline and wireless markets. For additional information on products and services offered by AFL Network Services and its affiliates visit www.AFLNetworkServices.com.

AFL Enhances Existing Indoor/Outdoor Breakout Cables

Product Line Now MSHA-approved

Spartanburg, South Carolina - April 7, 2009

AFL Telecommunications is re-introducing its indoor/outdoor breakout cables, recently approved by the Mining Safety and Health Administration (MSHA).

"As we continue to seek opportunities to expand our fiber optic cable product lines and tap into harsh environment markets, MSHA-approval is a necessity," stated Doug Baker, Product Manager. "By meeting MSHA requirements, we are able to work with various industries such as mining, providing additional, competitive options for communication systems.

"Perfectly suited for rugged applications and installations requiring increased performance, AFL’s Indoor / Outdoor Breakout Cables feature a UV and fungal-resistant semi-pressure extruded outer jacket. Individual subunits measure 2.5mm, allowing for ease of field termination, and use water-blocking aramid which further protects the tight-buffered fiber.

"The high performance nature of these products when combined with the relatively low weight and all-dielectric design make these cables ideal for communication applications in these environments," stated Bob Sebesto, Market Manager for Mining.

AFL Telecommunications currently manufactures a diverse set of fiber optic cable including OPGW (Optical Ground Wire), ADSS (All-Dielectric Self-Supporting), loose tube and various premise fiber optic cables.

For additional information, visit www.AFLtele.com.

About AFL Telecommunications

AFL Telecommunications, a subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan, is an industry leader in providing fiber optic products, engineering expertise and integrated services to the Electric Utility, Broadband, Telco, OEM, Private Network and Wireless markets. AFL Telecommunications is headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina and has additional operations in the U.S., Mexico and the U.K.

SkyWrap®: Not Just a Cable; a Proven Solution

Spartanburg, South Carolina - March 17, 2009
Having installed over 15,000 miles of this innovative fiber optic cable system, AFL Telecommunications is re-introducing SkyWrap to the electrical transmission and distribution industries. With over 30 years of proven technology, SkyWrap utilizes patented lightweight equipment to wrap cable onto ground wire or phase conductors on overhead power lines. Adaptable for high, medium or lower voltage, SkyWrap is ideal for managing demand, communication network builds and upgrades, or optimizing networks as it quickly installs a fiber optic link on existing infrastructure with minimal or no disruption in service.

The SkyWrap cable and installation method provides an extremely cost-effective and long-term solution.With fiber counts up to 144, SkyWrap is ideal for maximizing capacity for communications, internal control and monitoring of infrastructure, and for providing third party telecommunications services. Bullet-resistant cable designs are available for installation in harsh environments with a full range of accessories for any tower or conductor type. The installation equipment consists of a patented spinning machine and a remotely operated gas-powered tug, making it ideal for even the most difficult of terrains.

"As customer demand puts increasing pressure on power utilities to provide consistent levels of electricity, the need for reliable control and monitoring is vital," said Kurt Dallas, General Manager of AFL Telecommunications, Cable Systems. “But when costs are high and demand is constant, the risk of power outages increases. AFL's SkyWrap solution not only provides a way to install fiber optic cable without replacing existing wires, but also provides cost savings with quick installation without power outage time."

As a retrofit cable solution, SkyWrap stands alone compared to other installation methods – the cable does not unwind, loosen or deteriorate. The system is optimized to deal with temperature variations, remaining tight on the conductor while ensuring no fiber strain.

AFL also provides complete turnkey installation and project management services to maximize the benefits of SkyWrap installation. With nearly 25 years of experience in fiber optic cable technology, engineering and installation around the world, AFL Telecommunications is uniquely positioned to assist with the best and most relevant solutions.



For additional information on SkyWrap and to view a video of the SkyWrap installation process, visit: http://www.afltele.com/products/fiber_optic_cable/skywrap/.

About AFL Telecommunications
AFL Telecommunications, a subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan, is an industry leader in providing fiber optic products, engineering expertise and integrated services to the Electric Utility, Broadband, Telco, OEM, Private Network and Wireless markets. AFL Telecommunications is headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina and has additional operations in the U.S., Mexico and the U.K.

AFL Network Services Delivers End-to-End Managed Wi-Fi Service Solution to Hyatt Regency Newport

Spartanburg, South Carolina - March 4, 2009
With million dollar views and a recently completed $34 million dollar resort-wide renovation, the Hyatt Regency Newport’s spectacular private island location is the perfect setting for its event facility. Featuring versatile meeting space, the facility required high-performance mobile Wi-Fi coverage enabling guests to maintain seamless connectivity throughout the facility. AFL Network Services and BelAir Networks addressed these requirements as part of an end-to-end managed Wi-Fiservice solution.

“For our requirements, BelAir Networks’ products deliver the highest performance ubiquitous coverage at the lowest cost – and they’re quick and easy to deploy so there’s no disruption to our guests,” said Ron Hardin, IT Director, Davidson Hotel Company, one of the nation’s largest independent hotel management companies. Davidson Hotel Company bought the Hyatt Regency Newport in a joint venture with Amstar Group in 2006. “Davidson Hotel Company consistently creates and enhances value in each of its owned and managed properties and BelAir Networks high-performance Wi-Fi has become part of that value proposition.”

AFL Network Services provides Davidson Hotel Company with an end–to-end managed Wi-Fi service solution to address their requirements at the Hyatt Regency Newport and other hotels and resorts in the Davidson portfolio. AFL deployed just eight BelAir100 wireless access points to provide high-performance Wi-Fi coverage of 27,000 square feet of function space, including ballrooms, meeting rooms and pre-function areas. AFL’s end-to-end solution at the Hyatt Regency Newport includes network design, installation, management and ongoing support. AFL also installed and supports a new Internet connectivity management and billing system along with a solution for application-specific traffic management and bandwidth shaping to ensure a consistent user experience.

“Because we’re providing an end-to-end managed Wi-Fi service solution, we want best-of- breed technology that’s easy to manage, and, of course, cost is always an issue,” said Kent Brown, Director, Access Solutions, AFL Network Services. “Whatever the deployment situation – indoors, outdoors, in both new installations and network upgrades/replacements – we’ve found that BelAir Networks’ comprehensive portfolio of indoor and outdoor Wi-Fi networking products consistently deliver high-performance, highly reliable and very cost-effective Wi-Fi coverage that we can deploy quickly and manage both centrally and remotely.”

Driven by the powerful, feature-rich BelAirOS operating system software and managed by BelView, BelAir Networks offers the industry’s most comprehensive product portfolio of indoor access points (AP) and outdoor wireless nodes supporting both Wi-Fi and WiMAX, as well as public safety, defense and intelligent transportation system (ITS) frequency bands. BelAir Networks’ deployments require less equipment and wiring than traditional Wi-Fi access points, reducing the cost, time, labor and maintenance associated with the network deployment and its ongoing operation. Hosted software-based control enables centralized management and lowers network CapEx by about 30%. The highly reliable and esthetically attractive BelAir nodes and APs enable hotel operators to get Wi-Fi up and running quickly with no disruption to guests, visitors or staff.

“AFL’s extensive networking experience and commitment to providing end-to-end managed Wi-Fi service solutions enables leading hospitality operators and management companies, such as Davidson Hotel Company, to address increasing demand for high-performance wireless networking driven by the growing number of Wi-Fi enabled mobile devices and applications,” said Dave Park, VP, Product Marketing, BelAir Networks. “With a managed Wi-Fi service model, hotels and resorts can address Wi-Fi demand and opportunities without creating additional strain on internal IT resources.”

About AFL Network Services
AFL Network Services is headquartered in Spartanburg, South Carolina. With 35 field offices in the U.S. and over 1300 employees, AFL provides telecommunications installation and maintenance services in the enterprise, wireline and wireless markets. For additional information on products and services offered by AFL Network Services and its affiliates visit www.AFLNetworkServices.com.

About BelAir Networks
BelAir Networks is the technology and market leader delivering the industry’s highest performance mobile broadband networking solutions for video, voice and data applications. Founded in 2001, BelAir Networks is a privately held company backed by investment from leading venture capital firms including Comcast Interactive Capital, T-Mobile Venture Fund and Trilogy Equity Partners. For more information about BelAir Networks products and customers, visit www.belairnetworks.com.

About Davidson Hotel Company
Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., Davidson Hotel Company is an award-winning, full-service hotel owner and third-party management company that provides management, development/renovation, acquisition, consulting and accounting expertise for the hospitality industry. The company currently owns and/or manages 32 upscale, independent and branded hotels with nearly 9,100 rooms across the United States, including such affiliations as Westin, Sheraton, Hyatt, Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Embassy Suites, Doubletree, Marriott, Renaissance, Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn. Additional information on Davidson may be found at the company’s Web site, www.davidsonhotels.com.