Stolen from SDLI - JDSU Transition thread:
To:Dale Baker who wrote (2005)
From: pat mudge Friday, Jul 27, 2001 2:18 PM
Respond to of 2012
Pat knows much more about this issue than I do.
One of my start-ups has developed a much more automated process for packaging laser pumps than is currently available. They have a major investment from Siemens, an MOU with NEC, their first proto-type in hand, alpha and beta customers established, and teaming and investment interests from other players in the industry, both major and minor.
Current manufacturing involves laser welders that cost a half million and up each and operate at extremely low efficiencies. Once you've invested multiple millions in this kind of equipment, it's not an easy process to scrap everything and start over. Not only do you have huge losses, you also have to start from square-one with tests and qualifications. Having said this, with the industry at a near crawl, this would be a good time to consider making these changes. At least time is on their side in terms of being re-qualified.
JDSU has some smart people, especially through its SDL acquisition (I'm biased, I know), and I have no doubt it'll not only survive but maintain its place as an industry leader.
Pat |
