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Draka Comteq Introduces BendBright Fiber Cables for
Access and Distribution Networks

Claremont, North Carolina USA - August 17, 2005...

Draka Comteq, a leading supplier of optical fiber and communications cabling, announced today
the availability of its outside plant and premise cables with BendBright™ singlemode fiber.  BendBright fiber provides a tenfold improvement in bend performance across the entire 1260m to 1625nm spectrum - addressing a key challenge facing the deployment of futureproof access and distribution networks.

BendBright fiber reduces bend-induced loss by 90%, dramatically reducing the impact of imperfectly routed fibers and saving network operators precious time and money.  The use of wave-division multiplexing (WDM) is driving the need to ensure deployed fiber networks support longer wavelengths - critical since singlemode fiber is approximately five times more bend-sensitive at 1625nm than 1550nm.  Field studies reveal that while most singlemode fibers are currently specified across the L-band to 1625nm, bend-induced loss frequently prevents networks from being upgraded without costly troubleshooting and rework.

"Network operators are searching for ways to drive down total installed costs and improve reliability," according to Allen Griser, Director of Marketing for Draka Comteq.  "The innovations of BendBright fiber accomplish both - with benefits installers see firsthand in the real world."  BendBright fiber cables are ITU-T G.652.D-compliant and fully compatible with other conventional and full spectrum fibers, including Draka Comteq's ESMF Enhanced Singlemode Fiber. 

The second largest supplier of optical fiber worldwide, Draka Comteq previously announced plans to restart operations at its North American optical fiber manufacturing facility during the third quarter of this year in response to the growing popularity and demand for its optical cables and fibers. 

About Draka Comteq

Draka Comteq provides optical fiber and cabling solutions for telecommunications carriers, utilities, installers and enterprises to deliver broadband services. A jointly owned company of Draka and Alcatel, Draka Comteq leverages its leadership in optical fiber technology, cabling solutions and applications expertise to bring value to its customers' broadband infrastructure.

Draka is a 96-year old wire and cable company engaged worldwide in providing innovative cabling solutions for a wide range of applications. A top five cabler worldwide, Draka focuses its solutions through:
•  Draka Comteq, providing communications cabling solutions.
•  Draka Cableteq, providing low-voltage and specialty cabling solutions.

For more information, visit Draka Comteq on the Internet: http://www.drakacomteq.us

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Draka Comteq Media Contact:
Tina Bryant
Phone  828.459.8772
Fax      828.459.8444
Tina.Bryant@draka.com