Village Networks, Inc., a provider of integrated IP-over-optics networking solutions, and OMM, Inc., a supplier of photonic switching subsystems based on micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology, announced efforts to deliver what the companies claim will be the first solution for optical switches optimized for metro/regional networks. Through a close partnership, the two companies designed an innovative optical subsystem architecture that allows Village Networks' iOPN2000 to scale to a 64x64 switch matrix using two-dimensional (2D) MEMS technology.
OMM has developed two-dimensional (2D) MEMS photonic subsystems to deliver solutions with carrier-class reliability and cost-effectiveness. Using the OMM technology, the iOPN2000 delivers rate and format transparency, in-service upgradability, simplex or duplex mode operation, and sub-SONET switching time. The new architecture gives service providers a "future-proof" plan for scaling their optical networks.
Village Networks' iOPN2000 is an optical packet node designed to integrate the intelligence of light-speed packet processing with the power of optical networking. By combining optical l switching technology with light-speed IP routing, iOPN2000 dramatically simplifies IP networking, while giving service providers breakthrough capabilities, improved performance and reduced costs. It is designed for metro and regional networks and is currently in trials with major carriers, including Global Crossing (NYSE:GX).
OMM's MEMS-based 2D photonic switching subsystems provide non-blocking connections of multiple inputs to multiple outputs in milliseconds and eliminate the need to rearrange physical connections. OMM's subsystems eliminate the bottleneck that occurs when converting optical signals into electrical signals and function independently of data rate, wavelength, or signal protocol to accommodate changing requirements in long haul, metro, and access networks. At the heart of the OMM 2D switch is a matrix of next-generation digital micro-mirrors. Each mirror in the "ON" state directs a collimated beam from an input fiber to an output fiber. The mirror array is controlled by a simple digital interface and provides strictly non-blocking, low-loss connections.
About OMM:
OMM, Inc. is a supplier of photonic switching subsystems based upon MEMS technology, or micro electro-mechanical systems, that enable communications equipment manufacturers to build photonic switching systems for fiber-optic networking in the long haul, metropolitan and access segments of the communications network. For more information, visit www.omminc.com.
About Village Networks
Village Networks provides intelligent IP-over-optics solutions for metropolitan and regional networks. For more information, visit www.villagenetworks.com.