MRV Adds Raman

CHATSWORTH, Calif. -- MRV COMMUNICATIONS, INC. (Nasdaq:MRVC - News), a leading provider of products and services for WDM and optical transport, metro Ethernet, fiber optic components, 10GE, out-of-band networking and other service aware networking products, today announced the availability of new ultra long-distance optical Raman amplifier modules for its Lambda Driver® DWDM transport platform. MRV's Raman amplifiers improve optical signal-to noise ratio allowing improved performance of long-haul optical networks. MRV's EM1600-OAR family of Raman amplifiers utilizes stimulated Raman scattering to create optical gain. The new amplifiers increase the single span reach of an optical signal by more than 50 km over traditional Erbium Doped Fiber Amplifier (EDFA)-based alternatives by improving the optical signal-to-noise ratio in amplified long-haul networks.

MRV's EM1600-OAR Raman amplifier family consists of three modules that offer 10dB, 12dB and 15dB of maximum optical gain over G652 fiber. The amplifiers provide flat response for the entire C-band with the optional ability to be configured to other wavelength ranges. MRV's Raman amplifiers use different protection techniques including automatic optical shut down upon detection of fiber break or open connector. This safety feature is extremely important, given the Raman amplifier's high-power light and power consumption.

The modules are currently in use by customers worldwide, including fast growing German regional service provider R-KOM.

"Because we use mainly 10-Gig protocols, we need the high optical signal-to-noise ratio a Raman Amplifier provides, to enable long distance connection with the minimal number of amplifier locations," said Klaus Eckel, Chief Technical Officer for R-KOM. "We are pleased with the speed and professionalism with which MRV installed the modules and are confident that with this technology, we can leave out extra amplifier locations which will translate to significant savings."

MRV Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: MRVC)