MSA for thermally stabilised AWG modules

6 December 2002 -- Passive device manufacturers Alcatel Optronics of France and Hitachi Cables and NEL of Japan have announced a multi-source agreement (MSA) for thermally stabilised arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) modules. These standardised AWGs will provide multiplexing and demultiplexing interfaces for DWDM optical equipment.

The new common specifications ensure that network equipment manufacturers have a choice among compatible sources, while suppliers can reduce lead-time and cost.

The agreement defines common mechanical features and electrical parts of the AWG modules and, more specifically, package outlines for the AWGs with up to 48 channels, heater resistance, pin function definitions, and software. The optical performance, such as insertion-loss and cross-talk, is up to each MSA member, which will independently develop and market compatible AWG products.

"The development of this MSA recognises the maturity of AWG technology and its widespread adoption by system vendors," said Philippe Bregi, chief operating officer of Alcatel Optronics. "In today's environment of cost and inventory reduction, the development of common platforms is critical and will mutually benefit our customers and ourselves."

Dr Seiichi Okubo, board member and deputy group executive of Hitachi Cable's Information Systems Group, said "For us vendors, standardization of the mechanical and electrical interfaces will allow us to concentrate on the optics, the heart of the devices. For our customers, enhanced cost reductions can be realised."

"The MSA surely benefits the incumbent customers and stimulates the demand of the potential users", said Dr Nakahara, senior managing director and executive director of NEL's Photonics Business Group. Nakahara moved to NEL to commercialise AWGs after five years of research into AWGs in NTT laboratories.

The thermally tuned AWG MSA group says that it is an open forum and welcomes applications from AWG manufactures that wish to join.

www.alcatel.com/optronics
www.hitachi-cable.com
www.nel-world.com