Whether it's in the carrier-class router business, or their upcoming network software specialty, there is a North Billerica, Massachusetts outfit that is in there pitching. The company provides IP solutions to some of the world's leading service providers.

Avici Systems (NASDAQ: AVCI) provides high-speed data networking equipment that enables service providers to transmit data, voice, and video. The firm's Terabit router transmits large volumes over core fiber-optic communications networks. Other models are used by service providers with smaller core networks. The company is in the process of phasing into the network management software business. Avici has a technology partnership with Intel (Nasdaq: INTC) and is a preferred supplier of IP core routers for Nortel Networks (NYSE: NT). Alcatel-Lucent (NYSE: ALU), Cisco Systems (NASDAQ: CSCO) and Juniper Networks (NASDAQ: JNPR) are competitors.

The company pleased investors last week, when it reported Q2 EPS of 81 cents and revenues of $29.6 million. Analysts had been expecting 21 cents and $15.8 million. Management also guided FY07 revenues to $110-125 million ($60.16 million consensus).