Juniper Networks, has spent $8.7 million to buy Acorn Packet Solutions, a maker of TDM-to-IP gateways that are seen as a way to make Juniper more attractive to government customers.
Acorn Packet developed five Circuit To Packet (CTP) boxes that support two to 56 circuit switched lines and convert their traffic to IP while maintaining circuit characteristics needed to keep circuit applications running.
These CTP devices are seen as a way for businesses with an investment in circuit technology to keep using it while at the same time migrating to IP technology and services.
Juniper says the deal gives the company a set of products that are attractive to U.S. government customers in particular. Many federal agencies are trying to transition to IP without forklift replacing their existing equipment. Acorn Packet, based in Frederick, Md., has focused on developing gear for the federal government since the company was founded in 2002.
The Acorn Packets’ product names will continue to be used. They are: CTP 1002, 1004, 1012, 2024 and 2056, which support circuits that range in speed from 75 bits/sec to 12.28M bit/sec.
Juniper says Acorn Packets sold less than $1 million worth of its products in fiscal 2004. The deal was finalized Oct. 20.
