3Com Corp of Santa Clara, has joined cable technology supplier, Com21 Inc, to develop next generation data over cable systems based on open standards. 3Com has also taken an undisclosed equity stake in Com21 and will hold a seat on the board. 3Com will license Com21 technology to develop cable modems, while Com21 will receive assistance from 3Com in the areas of architectural design and quality assurance, as well as becoming 3Com’s cable head-end controller supplier. 3Com’s cable modems are expected to ship by the end of this year.
