SAN JOSE, Calif., Feb. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- SDL, Inc. (NASDAQ:SDLI). Rapid
advances in optically-amplified, dense-wavelength division multiplexed (DWDM)
transmission networks have fueled growing demand for a new class of fiber
optic components. In response to this demand, SDL is launching a new line of
fiber optic components based on the unique combination of benefits offered by
fiber Bragg grating technology. Devices using fiber Bragg grating technology
deliver cost-effective means of performing many functions required in DWDM
systems. Because the devices are fabricated directly in the fiber, alignment
and assembly cost can be significantly less than competing devices that use
bulk optics and fiber.
This new family of products is based on technology which has been used in
conjunction with semiconductor laser products from SDL for the past several
years. Recently expanded engineering and production capacity in this area has
allowed SDL to begin offering individual fiber Bragg grating components to OEM
customers. According to Don Scifres, Chairman and CEO of SDL, "We have
considerable experience producing fiber Bragg gratings for use with our 980 nm
pump modules, so we have the manufacturing infrastructure and experience to
support high volume production of these devices. Since these products are
used in the same applications as our existing communications products, we
already have strong technical and business relationships with key customers."
The first products envisioned will support the development of the next
generation of DWDM erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs). A variety of fiber
Bragg grating components are in various stages of development or evaluation,
including noise suppression filters, gain flattening filters, dispersion
compensating filters, add-drop multiplexing filters and 1550 nm reflectors. |
