Avanex Intros Laser

FREMONT, Calif. -- Avanex Corporation (NASDAQ:AVNX) , a pioneer of intelligent photonic solutions that enable next-generation optical networks, today unveiled the first 1310nm Fabry Perot (FP) laser chip designed to minimize the cost of diplexers and triplexers by enabling the use of fully automated and scalable passive alignment techniques. The diplexers and triplexers are used in optical networking terminals (ONTs) for fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) deployments that enable broadband network applications.

Traditional laser chip technology requires either active alignment or the use of additional components to couple the optical power of the laser into the optical fiber, significantly increasing the cost of FTTH components. The PowerBeam(TM) 1931FL enables the use of automated production processes and Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) technology to manufacture diplexers and triplexers. The combination of the 1931FL with low-cost PLC technology offers a compelling value proposition for the rapidly growing FTTH market.

PowerBeam 1931FL is the first laser chip integrating a spot size converter with special features for automated alignment. The integration of these functions into a single chip enables customers to implement low-cost passive assembly processes on manufacturing lines.

"The PowerBeam 1931FL targets our advanced laser technology capabilities on extremely cost sensitive products such as those required in FTTH applications," said Giovanni Barbarossa, chief technology officer of Avanex. "Our solution brings significant advantages to our customers by enabling them to produce leading-edge low-cost products."

The PowerBeam 1931FL is for use in un-cooled low power consumption applications up to 2.5Gb/s and meets Telcordia GR-468 standards. The laser chip is currently in full production and has already secured several design wins with customers utilizing PLC technology.

Avanex Corp. (Nasdaq: AVNX)