Leading scientists in the optical networking industry announced today the establishment of Inplane Photonics, a developer and manufacturer of small, low-cost integrated optical components and platforms. Inplane is developing advanced, integrated optical components for network subsystem and systems manufacturers that will dramatically reduce systems' costs, size, and complexity while increasing reliability in optical networks, claim company representatives. Inplane Photonics recently closed its first round of funding--in excess of $20 million--led by Jerusalem Venture Partners (JVP) and Morgenthaler.
Inplane's technology is designed to enable the large-scale deployment of 10- and 40-Gbit/sec systems. Based on Planar Lightwave Circuits (PLC), Inplane's integrated "system-on-a-chip" devices are produced utilizing standard silicon processes. The ability to develop and manufacture products in its own 2,500-square-foot cleanroom, enables Inplane to market novel components, based on customer-specific requirements, and meet changing market demands.
"Decreasing cost and size while delivering at targeted performance levels are key features for next-generation optical transport solutions," explains Daryl Inniss, senior analyst for Optical Components at RHK Inc. (San Francisco). "Inplane's unique integration of a waveguide amplifier with a tunable dispersion compensator is an example of how PLC technology can help meet the market needs."
The company was founded by optical scientists Drs. Joseph Shmulovich and Allan Bruce. Shmulovich has 20 years experience in research and manufacturing of advanced optical components on silicon at Bell Laboratories. He holds 20 patents, and is a leading researcher in optical waveguide amplifiers. Bruce is an internationally recognized expert in glass science and technology, with 20 years experience in photonic applications, including 16 years at Bell Laboratories. He has published more than 75 technical papers and holds eight patents.
For more information about Inplane Photonics (South Plainfield,NJ), visit the company's Web site at www.inplane.com.