NEC achieves extended-reach XFP transceiver based on AZNA CML TOSA

MARCH 29, 2007 -- NEC Corp. (search for NEC) has demonstrated an extended-reach 10-Gbit/sec XFP transceiver for 160-km links without dispersion compensation.

This transceiver leverages NEC's planar lightwave circuit (PLC) technologies with extended reach Chirp Managed Laser (CML) technology from AZNA (recently acquired by Finisar) for a potentially low-cost, compact transmitter optical subassembly (TOSA). NEC says the transceiver addresses the demand for high-density pluggable optics and eliminates the need for dispersion compensation in 2.5- to 10-Gbit/sec upgrades.

Optical transmitter modules are used in optical interfaces of equipment such as large-capacity optical communications systems and high-speed router switches. Since conventional electroabsorption modulator integrated lasers (EMLs) or Mach-Zehnder modulators used in long-distance transmission are limited in distance to approximately 80 km, there has been demand for longer-range capability, NEC asserts.

In a joint effort, the two companies have demonstrated a compact PLC-based CML TOSA, which allows further miniaturization of AZNA's CML transmitters. The CML uses a standard DFB laser and a passive optical spectrum reshaper (OSR) filter to achieve extended reach. NEC claims it has developed a PLC-based OSR that can replace the current bulk version of the OSR used in AZNA products, reducing parts count and allowing passive optical alignment. These features, says the company, facilitate mass production and, therefore, a lower cost.

The XFP transceiver with a CML-TOSA is scheduled for display at OFC/NFOEC 2007 in Anaheim, CA, through today, at the NEC FiberOptech Inc. booth #1241.

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