NEWARK, Calif. -- LIGHTCONNECT, a leading supplier of dynamic components for optical networks, has announced that its MEMS-based DCE50 (Dynamic Channel Equalizer 50 GHz) has been qualified to strict industry standards.

The DCE50 can dynamically control the power or block up to 100 optical channels in one compact module. It eliminates the need for multiple discrete components while offering industry leading optical performance in a fully hermetic package. "Selecting the right channel equalizer and blocker for their ROADM sub-systems is a critical decision for our customers. They have recognized for some time that MEMS products provide superior optical performance at a lower cost, and with the completion of this demanding qualification program it is now clear that MEMS-based components are also best-in-class when it comes to reliability," said Yves Le Maitre, CEO of LIGHTCONNECT.

The tests employed for qualification were based on input from Tier 1 OEMs and follow the guidelines set forth by Telcordia. They included stress tests over temperature, damp heat and atmospheric pressure, as well as several newly developed tests which measure real time optical performance during large amplitude shock and vibration. "For the first time a MEMS-based DCE has been subjected to a set of tests that were specifically designed to simulate the worst real life operating conditions expected in the field and our product passed with flying colors," said Asif Godil, CTO of LIGHTCONNECT.

"We were the first to bring a Telcordia certified MEMS-based Variable Optical Attenuator and Dynamic Gain Equalizer to the market and with the addition of the Dynamic Channel Equalizer to this list, LIGHTCONNECT now has a complete line of qualified MEMS-based Dynamic Optical Components," said Yves Le Maitre.

LightConnect Inc.