DEDHAM, Mass., May 23 -- NetPlane Systems, a supplier of portable networking protocol software and systems, and AcceLight Networks, a developer of the first Photonic Service Switch, announced a strategic collaboration that will accelerate the development of Generalized MultiProtocol Label Switching (GMPLS). AcceLight has chosen Netplane's MPLS software for its PhotoniX suite of products to leverage the emerging G-MPLS standards that will result in simplified network provisioning, protection and restoration. "G-MPLS is critical because it's the first step towards realizing the industry's vision of an optical network that can dynamically signal connections for rapid provisioning across all network layers including TDM, Optical and Packet. We're working with AcceLight because they are at the forefront of optical core networking equipment and we are the leader in MPLS software," said Deepak Shahane, NetPlane's vice president and general manager. "By forming a collaboration we can leverage our respective expertise more effectively in the optical area. We've been working to implement MPLS signaling extensions for optical networking in our Label Traffic Control System product which will support the carrier-class attributes needed for core equipment, such as AcceLight's Photonic Service Switch." NetPlane will announce optical enhancements to LTCS at SuperComm and its overall comprehensive signaling and routing strategy for next generation optical networks.