Agere Systems, Alcatel Optronics, Nortel Networks announce multi-source agreement for compact EDFAs

Agere Systems, Alcatel Optronics, and Nortel Networks today announced a multi-source agreement (MSA) for compact Erbium Doped Fiber Amplifiers (EDFAs) used in optical networking systems.

The agreement establishes a standard that specifies uniformity for product package outlines, pin function definitions, and optical and electrical characteristics. Agere, Alcatel Optronics, and Nortel Networks will independently develop and market compact EDFAs based on this standard, ensuring that optical systems manufacturers have a choice among compatible sources.

Compact EDFAs offer condensed, small-form-factor packaging with high flexibility at low cost. These devices target single-channel or narrow-band applications from the metro edge to ultra long haul, and are typically used when a quantity of channels are split off the main networking path to a switch elsewhere in the network.

"MSAs have become strategically important for opto-electronic component manufacturers as they secure the implementation of new generation optical platforms for our customers," explains Philippe Brégi, chief operating officer of Alcatel Optronics. "Standardization and integration is key to optimizing the design and lowering the cost of optical systems. It gives flexibility and simplifies system manufacturing. This MSA by three leading optical component vendors is the first real step towards optical amplification standardization and opens the door to many others."

Under the terms of the MSA, Agere, Alcatel Optronics, and Nortel Networks are expected to manufacture compact EDFAs that conform to specified packaging dimensions and pin functionality, and meet or exceed specified optical and electrical characteristics. The MSA specifications will be made available shortly.

Alcatel Optronics (Paris) designs, manufactures, and sells high performance optical components and subsystems for terrestrial and submarine optical telecommunications networks. For more information, visit the company's Web site at http://www.alcatel.com/optronics.

Agere Systems manufactures optical components and integrated circuits. More information about the company can be found on its Web site at www.agere.com.

Nortel Networks Optical Components designs, develops, and manufactures components for optical networking, from discrete optical components to advanced circuits and modules. For more information, visit the company's Web site at www.nortelnetworks.com/opticalcomponents.