LIGHTCONNECT uses MEMS technology for single- and multiple-channel VOAs

July 3, 2001
July 3, 2001--LIGHTCONNECT, Inc. introduced single- and 8-channel voltage controlled Variable Optical Attenuators, claiming faster speed, smaller form factor and better optical performance than current VOAs on the market.

LIGHTCONNECT, Inc., a developer of dynamic MEMS-based fiber optic components for next generation optical networks, introduced single- and 8-channel voltage controlled Variable Optical Attenuators (VOA), claiming faster speed, smaller form factor and better optical performance than current VOAs on the market.

The single channel FVOA2001 individual attenuator elements are each housed in a transistor-like, hermetically sealed package. The FVOM2008 is a multi-channel array consisting of eight MEMS-based FVOA2001 elements in a single package.

LIGHTCONNECT VOAs are based on proprietary diffractive-MEMS (micro electro-mechanical systems) technology, which is faster, more reliable, less complex and less expensive to manufacture than stepper-motor based devices, planar waveguide technology and other MEMS technologies, such as micro mirrors or bubbles.

VOAs enable dynamic control of optical power in several key areas of dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) networks. They provide power balancing: before multiple channels are combined; during channel equalization at add/drop multiplexers; between stages in amplifiers; and power control into receivers.

The use of diffractive MEMS technology also allows these VOAs to be 1,000 times faster and nearly 90 percent smaller than industry standard devices. In addition, they are expected to surpass trillions of attenuation cycles without any performance degradation. Advanced transistor-like packaging not only provides a reliable hermetic package, but also lends itself to efficient automated manufacturing, yielding high volumes at lower per-unit cost.

The devices operate at under 60 microseconds typical response time; low PDL (polarization dependent loss) under 0.1 dB typical; insertion loss 0.8AdB typical; WDL (wavelength dependent loss) less than 0.3 dB max at 10 dB attenuation; PMD (polarization mode dispersion) less than 0.01 ps typical; dynamic range greater than 30 dB, and power consumption under 10 mW per channel. All this in a small 9 x 16 mm package.

The arrays will successfully complete Telecordia GR-1221 and GR-468 qualifications by August. Additional reliability data is also being collected.

TheAFVOA2001 individual attenuator is priced at $1,000 for engineering samples, and significantly less for production volumes. The FVOM2008 module of eight devices is $8,000 for engineering samples, and significantly less for production volumes which will be available in Q3.

About LIGHTCONNECT, Inc.:

Founded in 1999, LIGHTCONNECT designs and manufactures innovative, MEMS-based, fiber optic components for next generation, dynamically configurable optical networks. For more information, visit www.lightconnect.com.

Sponsored Recommendations

Optical Transceivers in the Age of AI: Impacts, Challenges, and Opportunities

Jan. 13, 2025
Join our webinar to explore how AI is transforming optical transceivers, data center networking, and Nvidia's GPU-driven architectures, unlocking new possibilities in speed, performance...

Innovating the network edge with 100ZR QSFP28: The next frontier in coherent optics

Jan. 15, 2025
In this webinar, Juniper Networks, EXFO and Precision Optical Technologies are teaming up to showcase the new 100ZR QSFP28 pluggable coherent technology, exploring its foundational...

On Topic: Metro Network Evolution

Dec. 6, 2024
The metro network continues to evolve. As service providers have built out fiber in metro areas, they have offered Ethernet-based data services to businesses and other providers...

Meeting AI and Hyperscale Bandwidth Demands: The Role of 800G Coherent Transceivers

Nov. 25, 2024
Join us as we explore the technological advancements, features, and applications of 800G coherent modules, which will enable network growth and deployment in the future. During...