Merit Network Selects CommScope as Fiber Optic Cable Vendor for REACH-3MC

November 29, 2010 ANN ARBOR, Mich.

Merit Network, Inc., has selected CommScope as fiber optic cable vendor for Merit’s broadband stimulus project, REACH-3MC. CommScope was selected from a number of qualified suppliers that responded to a request for proposal (RFP) Merit issued in late June.

While there were several strong proposals, the Merit team’s thorough review of all RFPs showed that CommScope could deliver the most competitive solution for the fiber optic cable needs of the REACH-3MC project, which will build 1,017 miles of open-access, advanced fiber optic network through rural and underserved communities in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula.

“We believe that CommScope will manufacture and deliver a superior fiber optic cable at a very competitive cost,” said Bob Stovall, vice president of network engineering and operations for Merit Network. “There are a number of factors that we examined to reach this conclusion, from the quality of fiber optic cable produced to the delivery methods and cleanup.”

“The REACH-3MC build-out will utilize CommScope’s ability to deliver fiber in as close to just-in-time as possible,” said Pete Miller, Merit’s director of network engineering and operations. “This will give Merit the ability to customize reel size and have the material delivered to where it is needed and exactly when it is needed.”

“The fiber delivery is done via CommScope’s own fleet of delivery vehicles that are equipped with off-loading hoists,” said Robert Duncan, Merit’s director of infrastructure architecture and strategy. “This means Merit will not have the need for shipping and receiving docks or forklifts to accept the delivery of the fiber. It makes things easier and more cost-effective.”

The CommScope RFP response included the recovery and recycling of all spent reels as well, the Merit team said. This is significant considering there is expected to be over 1,000 empty reels when construction is complete.

“CommScope specializes in helping people connect to high-bandwidth data, voice and video applications everywhere,” said Peter Karlsson, senior vice president of Global Enterprise Sales, CommScope. “We are pleased to support Merit in providing advanced broadband access to more residents and communities in Michigan.”

About Merit’s REACH-3MC

The REACH Michigan Middle Mile Collaborative (REACH-3MC) will build 1,017 miles of open-access, advanced fiber optic network through rural and underserved communities in Michigan's Lower Peninsula. REACH-3MC will connect 44 community anchor institutions as the network is built and will pass 391 more over time. Led by Merit Network, Michigan's research and education network, REACH-3MC engages three sub-recipients from the private sector, ACD.net, LYNX, and TC3 net, to make broadband readily available to households and businesses that lack adequate service options in the 33 counties that make up the project service area. REACH-3MC is funded by a grant from the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), commonly referenced as the Stimulus Package.

About CommScope

CommScope, Inc. (NYSE: CTV) (www.commscope.com) provides essential infrastructure that makes communication possible. We empower people to connect and communicate seamlessly where, when, and how they choose. Our solutions and services for wired and wireless networks enable high-bandwidth data, video, and voice applications everywhere—at home, at work, and on the go. Through every wave of technology, CommScope helps the world connect and evolve. Backed by numerous respected brands such as Andrew®, SYSTIMAX® and Uniprise®, CommScope supports customers in more than 100 countries around the world through its focus on integrity, ethics, quality and technical innovation.

This press release includes forward-looking statements that are based on information currently available to management, management’s beliefs, as well as on a number of assumptions concerning future events. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of performance and are subject to a number of uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results to differ materially from those currently expected. For a more detailed description of the factors that could cause such a difference, please see CommScope’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In providing forward-looking statements, the company does not intend, and is not undertaking any obligation or duty, to update these statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

News Media Contact:
Merit Network Inc.
Elwood Downing, +1-734-527-5702
edowning@merit.edu
or
CommScope
Rick Aspan, +1-708-236-6568
publicrelations@commscope.com