Transition Networks Unveils 10Gigabit Media Conversion

Minnetonka, MN — May 10, 2011 — Transition Networks Inc.,the media conversion and Carrier Ethernet technology expert, a wholly owned subsidiary of Communications Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:JCS), today announced the introduction of its new, 10 Gigabit Ethernet fiber-to-fiber media converter. This converter is designed to meet the steady increase in network traffic that is driving service providers and enterprise network managers to explore newer 10 Gigabit technologies. Transition’s new 10 Gigabit converters provide a solution to these broadband constraints by developing a cost-effective method for fiber extension and fiber mode conversion. This new line of 10 Gigabit media converters help enterprises and service providers extend the distances required for specific applications, while also supporting bandwidth-intensive applications such as video.

The 10 Gigabit technology supports multiple standards, such as varied transmission distances on different types of fiber. With Transition’s 10 Gigabit media converter a user can select the fiber module needed to support their specific transmission distance requirements. Built for fiber extension over maximum transmission distances (80km/49.7mi), the 10 Gigabit media converter can also be used to interface between different types of fiber that may already be installed or available at a users location. For example, a conversion between single mode fiber to multimode fiber at 10G speeds can be used for expanding, extending, and upgrading the existing Ethernet networks in both Telecom and Enterprise applications where 10 Gigabit media conversion and fiber extension are required.

“The demand for 10 Gigabit Ethernet is being driven by the increasing need to deliver multi-gigabit connections to the network edge, helping to reduce the potential bottle necks associated with increased traffic from bandwidth-hungry applications.” says Patrick Schaber, Global Director of Marketing at Communication Systems Inc. “This is where 10G is finding a lot of activity and where Transition’s 10 Gigabit media conversion and fiber extension is ideal.”

Product Features and Configuration
The 10 Gigabit converter is available as a stand-alone or Point System Chassis card and supports 3R (reamplify, reshape, and retime) optical signal regeneration. The chassis cards can also be managed when installed in a managed Point System Chassis. Transition Networks will be offering two versions. The xTGFF4747-100 version supports XFP modules and the xTGFF4848-100 version supports SFP+ modules. Transition Networks has a variety of XFP and SFP+ modules to choose from to customize the 10 gigabit converter to the specific user requirements.

Product Availability
A stand-alone and slide-in card form factor for the 10 Gigabit Ethernet Converter is now available. Please contact Transition Networks at (800) 526-9267 or +1-952-941-7600. You can also visit www.transition.com for the latest information.

About Transition Networks Products
Transition Networks’ conversion products are known for their ruggedness and reliability. They have a 99.4 percent customer acceptance rating, meaning that approximately one in 1,000 experience failure in the field. All Transition Networks brand of media converters and switches carry a lifetime warranty.

About Transition Networks Inc.
Transition Networks Inc. offers networking connectivity solutions that make networks perform better, faster and more reliably while helping companies leverage their existing networking infrastructure. The company’s Transition Networks brand of media converters make conversion between disparate media types possible, providing conversion technology solutions that offer the necessary adaptations without affecting the performance, nature or appearance of the network. Its complete Milan portfolio of multilayer switching products is designed to facilitate low-cost network evolution with unique solutions, easing the stress on networks caused by high-bandwidth applications. Based in Minneapolis, Transition Networks distributes hardware-based connectivity solutions exclusively through a network of resellers in 50 countries, including Ingram Micro and Tech Data. Transition Networks is a wholly owned subsidiary of Communications Systems, Inc., a publicly traded company (NASDAQ:JCS).

Statements regarding the Company’s anticipated performance in 2011 are forward-looking and involve risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to: competitive products and other factors discussed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Company Contact:
Patrick Schaber
Transition Networks
(952) 996-1526

Editorial Contact:
Kim Miller
Tier One Partners
(617) 610-0583