USN Deploys Wireless Gateways From 3e Technologies

3e Technologies International Inc. (3eTI announced that the U.S. Navy has deployed its 3e-520N Wireless Gateway on USS HOWARD to improve productivity and operating efficiencies. USS HOWARD (DDG-83), an Arleigh Burke-class Destroyer, has implemented a ship-wide wireless network using forty 3e-520N Wireless Gateways, allowing personnel to use wireless devices to access crucial network resources and conduct video applications. This Gateway is powered by National Semiconductor's (NYSE:NSM) Geode(TM) solution to achieve high performance and expandability. "It is becoming increasingly important, during day-to-day operations, to reach the last 100 ft. onboard ship with key technical resources. In order to accomplish this task, our physical networks need to be supplemented with wireless capability," stated David Bartlett, Smartship Science and Technology Manager, U.S. Navy. "3eTI's 3e-520N Wireless Gateways are providing that critical connectivity to the ship's network resources from virtually all spaces on the ship. The potential is there, not only to improve productivity but also reduce our total ownership costs by improving the efficiency and accuracy of maintenance actions and reducing installation costs by limiting the amount of cable which must be run for the physical LAN." The 3e-520N Wireless Gateways also enable the network to support infrared (IR) and 802.11b wireless technologies, simplifying management and broadening the number of wireless RF and IR devices that can be used throughout the ship. Without the 3e-520N Wireless Gateway, USS HOWARD personnel could only use the network from a computer terminal with a physical connection, but now personnel can access critical information or instantly communicate with others throughout the ship from a standard wireless PDA, wireless laptop computer or other hand-held wireless devices. Not only does this streamline communication and maintenance, but it also enables personnel to remain connected to the network while they move around the ship.

"3eTI is always focused on delivering the best applications to meet customers' needs, and the implementation of our 3e-520N Wireless Gateways on USS HOWARD is a huge validation of the value we deliver," said Steven Chen, President and CEO of 3e Technologies International. "The 3e-520N Wireless Gateway is providing the Navy with a wireless networking solution, unmatched by anything in the industry, and I know that it will enable its personnel to not only improve productivity, but also communicate more effectively."

USS HOWARD is currently evaluating capabilities and applications using the wireless network, allowing for the streamlining of communication throughout the ship and enabling remote technical assistance where critical information must be shared immediately between various remote areas around the ship.