RIO DE JANEIRO, Aug. 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- In order to meet growing market demand for international data transmission, GlobeNet, an Oi subsidiary which operates the submarine fiber-optic cable system, has commenced a major network upgrade to the submarine system. Upon completion, the network upgrade will enable 360 Gbps of capacity. The company, which currently operates in the U.S., Brazil, Bermuda and Venezuela, is upgrading the submarine network based on ongoing customer demand to the region as well as forecasted growth in regional traffic.

GlobeNet's submarine system spans more than 22,000 kilometers, connecting Brazil, Bermuda, Venezuela and the United States. As a result, the company analyzes and forecasts international traffic patterns and demand in order to service these core markets. Based on its strategic market analysis, GlobeNet embarked on its current network upgrade to 360 Gbps to ensure its readiness to service its existing customers' needs as well as secure new opportunities in the region. The current upgrade will bring to market a total of 360 Gbps; however, the current DWDM technology utilized will have a total lit capacity of approximately 1.92 Tbps.

The market for international data traffic and transmission has been driven primarily by strong consumer growth in Internet and broadband services. The marked increase in the number of high-speed Internet users and their interest in accessing new technologies and applications such as multimedia, social networking and shared applications have driven demand for greater bandwidth availability. The need for internet-based services has propelled a major growth spike, contrasting with prior traditional services such as e-mail or simply browsing the web.

About GlobeNet

GlobeNet provides network transport services for carriers and service providers via the most advanced fiber-optic cable system connecting North and South America. The network spans more than 22,000 kilometers and offers a network availability of 99.99%. GlobeNet is a wholly owned subsidiary of Oi (formerly Brasil Telecom) with its headquarters in Boca Raton, Florida, USA.

Oi is a pioneer in providing convergent services in the country. It offers local and long-distance voice transmission, mobile telephony, data communication, Internet and entertainment.

    www.globenet.net

    For more information, please contact:
    Corporate Communication - Oi
    Mariana Pitta
    55 21 3131-1603
    mariana.pitta@oi.net.br

SOURCE Telemar - Tele Norte Leste Participacoes - Oi