EZchip samples NP-4 -- world’s first 100Gb network processor for carrier Ethernet apps

YOKNEAM, ISRAEL: EZchip Semiconductor Ltd, a leader in Ethernet network processors, announced that it is sampling the NP-4 100-Gigabit network processor (NPU). With NP-4, EZchip brings to market the highest performance programmable single-chip solution for Carrier Ethernet equipment.

NP-4 represents breakthroughs in performance and integration to enable building the next generation of high-density switch/router line cards that feature 200-400 Gigabit-per-second (Gbps) throughput and 20-40 10-Gigabit ports.

The NP-4 has already been selected for use by many customers, including Tier-1 vendors, in a variety of applications. EZchip will discuss the NP-4 and have it on display along with its NPA network processors for Ethernet access applications, at the Linley Tech Carrier Ethernet Design Seminar, January 28, 2010 in San Jose, California.

“EZchip has achieved a major industry milestone by being the first vendor to deliver a 100Gbps network processor,” said Bob Wheeler, senior analyst at The Linley Group. “In addition to enabling 100G Ethernet line cards, the NP-4 delivers excellent integration for high-density GbE and 10GbE designs.”

“We are excited to sample the NP-4, the world’s first 100-Gigabit NPU. Through its exceptional performance and integration we believe that the NP-4 will dominate the high-speed NPU market for years to come,” said Eli Fruchter, President and CEO of EZchip Technologies.

“The high level of integration of the NP-4 coupled with its extensive feature set, has resulted in an excellent market response to our ground-breaking NPU. NP-4 is a true enabler for accelerating the proliferation of 10-Gigabit ports and the introduction of 100-Gigabit ports in Carrier Ethernet networks. It allows system vendors to evolve their line-cards from 80-160 Gbps to 200-400 Gbps. These line cards can then provide multiple 100-Gigabit ports or twenty to forty 10-Gigabit ports per card, bringing 10-Gigabit to par with 1-Gigabit port density,” added Fruchter.