Calabasas-based network provider, Ixia said it expected earnings in the range of $38 million to $39 million or $0.00 to $0.02 per share or the first quarter ended March 31, 2006, below the company’s previous guidance of $39 million to $41 million or $0.01 to $0.03 per share. Ixia officials said its preliminary results were lower than expected because of a decline in revenues in North America and Europe. Asia Pacific revenues were strong compared to the prior quarter. “In some instances, however, we have encountered increased competition as we target certain accounts where our competitors have been the incumbent supplier,” said Errol Ginsberg, president and CEO of Ixia. “At some customers, we have seen the time for purchasing decisions lengthen, delaying some revenues.” Ginsberg also said he was “encouraged” by business results in China and India. Ixia plans to release its financial report on April 20.