Aurora Networks to acquire Harmonic optical business for $46 million

Optical access solutions provider Aurora Networks is acquiring Harmonic's optical transmission equipment business for $46 million in a deal which Aurora says will increase its "market share lead in the optical transport market by significantly increasing its installed base for next-generation service-providing products and creating long-term strategic growth opportunities."

The deal will allow Aurora to focus on its fiber optics product strategy even as other vendors dilute their offerings to weather a shifting market, the company added in a news release. Aurora markets primarily to cable operators who are moving fiber deeper into their markets as they offer a variety of IP-driven unicast services based on broadband networks.

"We are dedicated to the evolution of cable infrastructure," said Guy Sucharczuk, chairman, president and CEO of Aurora Networks, in the news release. "This strategic move is an opportunity for us to further celebrate our innovations, continue to grow and ensure that the networks of current customers and expanded customer base from Harmonic can meet challenges today and well into the future."

Harmonic was willing to part with its optical business because it is one of those companies which has been feeling the turbulence affecting telecommunications vendors.

"The direction of Harmonic has evolved to shift away from cable access and we selected Aurora Networks to purchase our cable access business because of its scale, strategic focus and commitment to customer care," said Patrick Harshman, CEO and president of Harmonic, in a news release in which he labeled Aurora as "an established, trusted and well respected industry player."

For more:
- Aurora Networks issued this press release

Related articles:
Aurora expands FTTH technology; Cisco exec predicts end of set-tops
Harmonic plans entry into CCAP fray