Gigabit Ethernet gets boost from Broadcom

Networking specialist Broadcom has joined forces with its rivals to speed the development of Gigabit Ethernet technology.

Broadcom leads the group, which includes 3Com, Cabletron and Cisco and other major networking vendors.

The vendors intend to fight the perception that expensive upgrades are necessary to allow Gigabit Ethernet to be run on existing networks. To combat this, they hope to provide products which do not require re-cabling from existing category 5 copper wires.

Peter Crowcombe, an analyst at Spikes Cavell, said: "Its no surprise that they are saying this technology is possible now. Standards bodies have been working towards an answer and there is likely to be more offerings like this once the standard is agreed."

The standard is being created by a global task force, and is known as IEEE802.3ab. It is expected to be ratified in June 1999.