Oclaro intros high-performing, low-power 100 Gbps coherent module

SAN JOSE, USA: Oclaro Inc., a tier-one provider and innovator of optical communications and laser solutions, has further strengthened its coherent product portfolio with the introduction of the MI 8000XM, a high-performing, low-power 100 Gbps MSA-compliant coherent transponder module.

The MI 8000XM is the second member of the Oclaro coherent transponder family, joining the MI 5000XM 40 Gbps coherent module, which is shipping in volume today. The MI 5000XM and MI 8000XM transponders leverage Oclaro's proven history in delivering coherent solutions, its competencies in indium phosphide (InP) and lithium niobate (LiNbO3) material technologies, its vertical integration in optical components, and its production and application expertise.

Both the new 100 Gbps and the current 40 Gbps modules employ a PM-QPSK modulation format combined with coherent detection. Coherent detection, the leading technology for enabling 100 Gbps and higher optical transmission, delivers the scalability and flexibility needed for transmitting more bandwidth cost-efficiently over fiber optic networks. Complementing this family, Oclaro also has an established leadership position in the high bit rate direct detection transponder market with 40 Gbps transponders providing DPSK and DQPSK modulation formats with volume shipments that started in 2007.

Oclaro also provides a full range of the optical components necessary to implement complete transponder solutions. By providing customers with both coherent and direct detection module families and the key associated components, Oclaro enables network equipment manufacturers to develop market-leading, cost effective transponders for both new next-generation network implementations as well as upgrades on existing networks.

"Following on the success of our 40 Gbps transponders, the 100 Gbps MI 8000XM leverages Oclaro's expertise in module design combined with a deep understanding of high bit rate propagation challenges in optical fiber networks," said Dr. Terry Unter, president and GM of Oclaro Optical Networks Solutions Business Unit. "The MI 8000XM transponder integrates the latest generation DSP with an advanced control and management implementation to deliver state-of-the-art performance in a module that is easy for our customers to integrate into their network equipment."

"Merchant coherent transponders are critical for mass deployment of 100 Gbps DWDM systems," said Ron Kline, Principal Analyst at Ovum. "We continue to see strong growth of coherent technology for both 40G and 100G applications. The availability of standardized modules will help lower system costs and increase market competitiveness of vendors offering high-capacity bandwidth solutions."