Cisco Says Huawei Isn't "Gloriously Great'.(A)

Byline: MIKE ANGELL

The Chinese word "huawei" doesn't mean much to most Americans. Pronounced "hwa-way," it roughly translates to "gloriously great" or "the best."

China-based Huawei Technologies Co. looks to live up to that name as it expands into the U.S. tech market. But it's having a tough go of it.

Data networking gear maker Cisco Systems Inc. is suing Huawei for copying some Cisco products. The company has also been accused of selling equipment to Iraq. And the leadership of Huawei has been linked to China's army.

The truth about Huawei is hard to tell, due to the lack of business disclosure in China. What's clear is that Huawei mostly makes equipment for voice networks. It's trying to make a name for itself as …