Trapeze Networks has sent shockwaves through the wireless LAN channel by revealing plans to sell up to a cabling manufacturer.

Nearly two years after rival Symbol’s takeover by Motorola, Trapeze has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Belden - as predicted in last week’s issue of CRN (CRN, 2 June).

Belden said the $133m (£67m) deal would make it the world’s largest unified wired and wireless solutions provider.

John Stroup, chief executive of Belden, said: "We believe we are at an inflection point in enterprise wireless LAN expansion, a market that is already growing nearly 25 per cent per year, and that wireless connectivity is no longer considered a luxury but is a customer expectation," added Mr. Stroup.

Trapeze, which boasts a turnover of $56m, sells into the healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail, government and other enterprise verticals through both OEMs and distribution channels.

Jim Vogt, chief executive of Trapeze, said: "The superior performance and cost benefits of our highly acclaimed wireless LAN products have fuelled our global growth through distribution and through our OEM relationships with 3Com, Enterasys, Nortel and other large networking companies. Our customers can now be assured of continued product innovation and new capabilities from the combined resources of Belden and Trapeze."