OMM, Lightwave Integrate MEMS, PLC

SAN DIEGO -- OMM Inc., and Lightwave Microsystems Corp., announced today an agreement to develop a new generation of wavelength management and switching products based on micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) and planar lightwave circuits (PLCs). Lightwave Microsystems is a leading global supplier of planar lightwave circuits and modules for optical communications systems. OMM is a leading global supplier of advanced MEMS-based all-optical switching products. Together both companies will develop a series of hybrid-integrated modules that incorporate the benefits of both wavelength selectable filter and MEMS technologies for use in scalable optical add-drop and optical switch building blocks. Responding to customer demand for more integration, Lightwave Microsystems and OMM are planning to deliver first samples to customers this year. Initial products will be capable of dynamic reconfigurable switching that allows provisioning of individual wavelengths in optical networks as well as network protection services. "The integration of two powerful optical component technologies, MEMS and planar waveguides, will provide customers with greatly enhanced functionality at a much lower cost," said Ferris Lipscomb, vice president of marketing at Lightwave Microsystems. OMM Inc. Lightwave Microsystems Corp.