19 September 2014

II-VI Inc showcasing new compact optical amplifier array product platform at ECOC

In booth #503 at the European Conference on Optical Communications (ECOC 2014) in Cannes, France (22-24 September), engineering materials and optoelectronic components provider II-VI Inc of Saxonburg, PA, USA, which provides amplification solutions for next-generation optical networks, is showcasing a compact optical amplifier array product platform that is now generally available following qualification and customer verification.

Arrayed amplifiers are critical to emerging optical network architectures including colorless, directionless and contentionless (CDC) networks, says the firm, as they overcome signal losses in the optical switching equipment. Accordingly, compact, high-density solutions with reduced power consumption are essential requirements for these applications, where optical amplifiers are employed at each add and drop port of optical transmission systems.

“These requirements drive the need for creative packaging technologies and differentiated optical components,” says Dr Richard Smart, chief scientist & general manager of the II-VI Network Solutions Division. “Our unique dual-chip pump laser technology and advanced hybrid passives are key enablers of these highly compact arrayed amplifiers,” he adds. “We have unmatched levels of vertical integration in our amplifiers - from materials to sub-components to key enabling components, all from within the II-VI product portfolio, demonstrating the value of being a highly vertically integrated manufacturer,” Smart claims.

“Widespread deployment of CDC networks will require compact, cost-efficient amplifier solutions,” says Dr Sanjai Parthasarathi, director of product line management. “Our arrayed amplifier platform seeks to enable the acceleration of such deployments,” he adds. “Our unique dual-chip 980nm pump lasers provide the performance and individual control of discrete lasers, within a package footprint approaching 25% of alternative solutions. Our advanced hybrid passives perform multiple optical functions in a single optical component. This minimizes optical fiber management and splicing as well as reduces signal attenuation.”

II-VI says that it is currently engaged with multiple Tier-1 customers to provide arrayed amplifier solutions. With qualification of the first-generation products now completed, developments are underway to enable reduced packaging dimensions and to provide higher levels of functionality and integration.

See related items:

Oclaro closes sale of Amplifier and Micro-Optics business to II-VI Inc

Oclaro sells Zurich GaAs laser diode business to II-VI for $115m

Tags: II-VI Inc

Visit: www.ii-vi.com

Visit: www.ecoc2014.org