CyOptics Ships 36GHz Modulators

WALTHAM, Mass. -- CyOptics Inc., a leading developer of 10 and 40Gbps active optical components, today announced that its 40Gbps Electro-Absorption Modulators (EAMs) are achieving bandwidth in excess of 36 Gigahertz (GHz), the highest among commercial modulators. Based on Indium Phosphide (InP), these EAMs also offer a low drive voltage and a very compact size, making them ideal building blocks for next-generation optical networking systems. The 36GHz bandwidth achieved by the CyOptics EAM offers a substantial advantage over alternative commercial devices for 40Gbps transmission. The alternative devices, including 40Gbps Lithium Niobate modulators and other EAMs, are specified at 30GHz or below. Higher bandwidth is essential for high-quality, error-free transmission. CyOptics has been shipping samples of the 40Gbps EAM to select customers since January 2001. Initial production will be available Q4 '01, with high-volume quantities in Q1 '02. "Our 40Gbps EAM answers industry cost pressures by providing a high-performance, compact component with low power consumption, and the ability to aggregate multiple low-speed channels to one high-speed channel," said Hava Volterra, CyOptics vice president of marketing and business development. "The bottom line is a reduction in bill of material cost and corresponding lower operational costs." CyOptics Inc.