Merit Network, Inc., opted for CommScope as fiber optic cable vendor for Merit's broadband stimulus project, REACH-3MC. Out of a number of qualified suppliers that responded to a request for proposal Merit issued in late June, CommScope was selected.

The team of Merit Network thoroughly reviewed the requests of all suppliers and found that CommScope could deliver the most competitive solution for the fiber optic cable needs of the REACH-3MC project, which will build 1,017 miles of open-access, advanced fiber optic network through rural and underserved communities in Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

"We believe that CommScope will manufacture and deliver a superior fiber optic cable at a very competitive cost," said Bob Stovall, vice president of network engineering and operations for Merit Network, in a press release. "There are a number of factors that we examined to reach this conclusion, from the quality of fiber optic cable produced to the delivery methods and cleanup."

"The REACH-3MC build-out will utilize CommScope's ability to deliver fiber in as close to just-in-time as possible," said Pete Miller, Merit's director of network engineering and operations, in a press release. "This will give Merit the ability to customize reel size and have the material delivered to where it is needed and exactly when it is needed."

"The fiber delivery is done via CommScope's own fleet of delivery vehicles that are equipped with off-loading hoists," said Robert Duncan, Merit's director of infrastructure architecture and strategy, in a press release. "This means Merit will not have the need for shipping and receiving docks or forklifts to accept the delivery of the fiber. It makes things easier and more cost-effective."

"CommScope specializes in helping people connect to high-bandwidth data, voice and video applications everywhere," said Peter Karlsson, senior vice president of Global Enterprise Sales, CommScope, in a press release. "We are pleased to support Merit in providing advanced broadband access to more residents and communities in Michigan."

In related news, Merit Network will feature its secure community cloud and other services at the nation's premier conference for higher education, the 2010 EDUCAUSE Annual Conference in Anaheim, Calif.