Flowpoint rolls out DSL routers

Flowpoint Corp. introduced two digital subscriber line routers last week, providing an alternative to more commonly used DSL modems. The integrated DSL and symmetrical DSL routers, to be shipped in May, were developed by the California-based network equipment company after extensive compatibility testing with other equipment vendors and competitive local exchange carriers.

The combination of technological efficiency and competitive pricing makes the routers attractive, said Flowpoint President Chuck Waggoner. "Our router products are priced at a point that matches very well with Internet service providers and network access providers," he said, adding that the company's three years of experience providing ISDN routers helped it develop capable DSL products.

The Flowpoint 144 IDSL router supports speeds up to 144 kb/s and is targeted at telecommuters. The 2200 model for SDSL has speeds up to 1.1 Mb/s, making it ideal for streaming video and audio, company officials said. Both can be configured for either a four-user LAN or an unlimited-user LAN. This multiuser availability makes it affordable and practical for small businesses, Waggoner said.

Such routers are the next logical step for DSL and will work well for smaller offices, said Raymond Keneipp, an analyst with Current Analysis. However, the products are less likely to be bought by big businesses, which tend to rely on one vendor for all DSL equipment, he said.

Other analysts said Flowpoint faces big competitors such as Cisco Systems, Bay Networks and 3 Com in a relatively small market.

"Their only hurdle is name recognition," said TeleChoice analyst John Hunter, adding that the routers have attractive features and benefits.

A key point is that Flowpoint is ready to deliver, said analyst Tam Dell'Oro of The Dell'Oro Group. "They're here, they've got product, and they're peddling to carriers, while other companies are still in development," she said.

Pricing for the 144 model begins at $399; the 2200 starts at $599.