Packeteer signs Brocade, LAN Systems

NASDAQ-listed Packeteer has signed on Brocade Communications and LAN Systems as distributors for its recently acquired Tacit Networks' range of products.

Tacit Networks is a US-based supplier of Common Internet File System (CIFS), Wide Area File Services (WAFS) and network acceleration technologies.

It also sells DNS, DHCP, file and print services, in partnership with Microsoft.

Brocade was an investor in Tacit and has signed an OEM distribution agreement with Packeteer to sell the Tacit range of products worldwide, while LAN Systems and Express Data would distribute the Tacit range of products to the Australian channel.

Packeteer will focus on taking Tacit’s solutions through its existing channel, said Bede Hackney, country manager, Australia & New Zealand for Packeteer.

"Although we haven't had a chance to catch up with Brocade locally, we expect the take up for our two established distributors, LAN Systems and Express Data straightaway," said Hackney.

"Our first evaluation kit will be delivered on the 16th May and we will also start training our channel partners from then on."

Once the deal is finalised, Packeteer will acquire Tacit Networks for $US78 million.

Tacit Networks expected revenues of $US1 million in Q2 and $US1 million in operating losses.

The deal is expected to close in calendar Q2, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals.