Europe : Catapult Communications announced new capabilities for the DCT2000(R) test system that allow users to test 3GPP Cell Broadcast Services (CBS). Telecom equipment manufacturers and network operators can now use the DCT2000 to verify the CBS features of 3G UMTS Radio Access Networks and Cell Broadcast Centers.

First introduced in 2.5G GPRS networks in 1998, Cell Broadcast Services allow cellular operators to deliver information such as stock prices, traffic information, weather reports and emergency alerts to mobile users within selected cells of the network.

CBS has been enhanced in today's 3G UMTS networks and requires new protocols for the radio interface and the interface between the Radio Access Network and the Core Network. Catapult's DCT2000 test system now supports the 3GPP Release 99 protocols needed for CBS testing: BMC (Broadcast/Multicast Control) and SABP (Service Area Broadcast Protocol). According to Dave Mayfield, Catapult President and COO, "We are seeing a growing need for testing 3G services such as Messaging Services, Location Services and CBS. Adding CBS testing to our test portfolio further demonstrates our commitment to provide the broadest offering of telecom test tools to 3G equipment manufacturers and network operators around the world."

ABOUT CATAPULT COMMUNICATIONS
Catapult Communications is a leading supplier of advanced digital telecom test systems to global equipment manufacturers and service providers. The Catapult DCT2000(R) and MGTS(R) systems deliver superior high-end test solutions for hundreds of protocols and variants, spanning 3G, VoIP, GPRS, SS7, Intelligent Network, ATM, ISDN and other network environments. Catapult is headquartered at 160 South Whisman Road, Mountain View, CA. 94041. Tel: 650-960-1025. International offices are located in the U.K.,Germany, France, Finland, Canada, Japan and Australia.