FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bellingham, Wash., May 4, 2010 - World leading power systems provider, Alpha Technologies, recently announced the introduction of the i2M™ – Intelligent Inverter Module – for the XM2-HP and XM2 CableUPS®. The i2M offers MSOs several new features to help in the intelligent management of their broadband power networks.

"In working with, and listening to, our MSO partners around the world, we know how important information and efficiency are in the provisioning process," said Jim Heidenreich, Vice President of Product Management and Customer Fulfillment at Alpha Technologies. "The i2M increases the level of intelligence in the outside plant. With an optional Smart DOCSIS Transponder, technicians can verify network communications with the NOC before they leave an outside plant location. Further, they can specify the AlphaCell™ battery model in the i2M and then track individual battery voltages on site. Our customers demand innovation, and we have worked to exceed their expectations."

Alpha engineered the i2M Intelligent Inverter Module to make an impact to three distinct areas.

• As a new standard feature on all new XM2-HP and XM2 power supplies, the i2M is a common inverter module for the majority of an MSO’s existing Alpha outside plant. Existing XM2 power supplies are easily field-upgraded as needed with the backwards-compatible i2M. It is a simple plug and play process, with no additional updates or configurations necessary.
• When coupled with an optional Smart DOCSIS® transponder, the field technician is able to verify the IP and MAC addresses and confirm network communications with the headend or network operating center. Transmit and receive power levels are displayed to verify proper attenuation.
• The new battery set-up menu of the i2M allows the selection of AlphaCell™ models to optimize charging and prolong battery life. Technicians can view individual battery voltages via the easier-to-read blue LCD Smart screen. This allows quick identification and replacement of bad batteries during preventive maintenance visits.

"One of the primary goals with the launch of the i2M is to help make sure a power supply is installed and provisioned correctly on the first pass," said Heidenreich. "We want to help minimize the need for second or third trucks rolls to tweak a setting or troubleshoot a communications problem. But we added the preventive maintenance features, like tracking individual battery voltages and AlphaCell battery selection, to ease the manpower necessary to ensure a plant hardened cable broadband network."

The i2M Intelligent Inverter Module will start shipping in all new XM2-HP and XM2 CableUPS® Power supplies in early June 2010. Replacement i2M modules will be available for ordering in Q3 2010.

Alpha Technologies Inc. develops power conversion, protection and standby products for telecommunications and broadband cable industries, including custom, application-specific power solutions. In addition to product development, Alpha Technologies provides a comprehensive range of installation and maintenance services to support its global customer base. Alpha Technologies is a member of The Alpha Group of companies.

The Alpha Group represents a global alliance of independent companies that share a common philosophy - create world-class powering solutions for communication, commercial, industrial and renewable energy markets.

View pdf version of this release.