Memphis Light, Gas & Water Division selects RuggedCom to Support its Electric Distribution System Automation Project

CONCORD, ON, Jan. 16, 2012 /CNW/ - RuggedCom Inc. ("RuggedCom") (TSX:RCM), a leading designer and manufacturer of industrial strength networks for mission-critical applications in harsh environments, has been selected by Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division (MLGW), United States' largest three-service municipal utility, to provide a high-speed communications network to support remote monitoring systems and future smart grid applications.

MLGW's new communication network features underground routers, emphasizing the need for utility grade devices. They also required devices with encryption and other cyber security options to protect the network and end devices as well as for regulatory reasons. RuggedCom's RuggedBackbone™ was the answer to MLGW's needs; a tough, high density, single box solution that provides various technologies (gigabit, serial and security), perfect for locations with space constraints, such as underground vaults. RuggedCom's network management software, RuggedNMS™ was also specified to provide a comprehensive platform for monitoring, configuring and maintaining mission-critical, IP-based communications networks.

"This was a very demanding project, requiring a high degree of reliability and flexibility. Much of what we were trying to accomplish provided not only new functionalities for MLGW, but pushed the industry forward in terms of performance and standardization," said Allan Long, MLGW's Project Manager for its Network Distribution System Automation project, recipient of a Smart Grid Investment Grant from the U.S. Department of Energy under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. "RuggedCom's multi-service platform, the RuggedBackbone™, is providing the features we needed."

About RuggedCom Inc.
RuggedCom is a leading provider of utility grade communications networking solutions designed for mission-critical applications in harsh environments. RuggedCom's pioneering leadership in developing technologies and products for the electric power industry delivered the world's first IEC 61850-3 compliant Ethernet switch suitable for electric utility substation environments, the world's first IEEE 1613 Class 2 error free communication devices, the world's fastest network fault recovery and the world's first fully managed IP67 rated Ethernet switch.

RuggedCom's technology solutions include Ethernet switches, network routers, wireless devices, serial servers, media converters, software and professional services. RuggedCom's products are expressly designed for use in challenging environments such as those found in electric power substations and smartgrids.

For more information, visit www.ruggedcom.com or follow us on Twitter: @RuggedCom.

About Memphis Light, Gas and Water
Memphis Light, Gas and Water is the nation's largest three-service municipal utility, serving nearly 430,000 customers. Since 1939, MLGW has met the utility needs of Memphis and Shelby County residents by delivering reliable and affordable electricity, natural gas and water service.

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