LUCENT TECHNOLOGIES ANNOUNCES NEXT-GENERATION TRANSPONDER MODULES IN ULTRA-COMPACT PACKAGE.

Lucent Technologies (NYSE: LU) Microelectronics Group announced next-generation transponder modules that combine optical components and integrated circuits (ICs) in an ultra-compact package, enabling manufacturers of high-speed optical networking systems to significantly cut costs and shorten the time it takes to bring new products to market. Lucent, Alcatel, and Hitachi Ltd., have signed a multi-source agreement to establish internationally compatible sources of the devices.

The transponder is a 10 gigabit-per-second (gbps) optical transmitter/receiver that can be used in dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) systems, inter- and intra-office metropolitan rings, optical add/drop multiplexers, and Internet Protocol (IP) switches and routers. It contains multiple functions such as clock synthesis and recovery circuitry as well as multiplexing and demultiplexing for 16 channels - all in a single package.

The transponder measures approximately 4.5 x 3.5 inches - the industry's smallest package. By using the transponder, optical networking systems manufacturers will shorten the time it takes to design 10-gbps systems by at least nine months to a year, while cutting power consumption and increasing port densities by as much as 50 percent.

Under terms of the agreement, transponders from all three companies must conform to packaging dimensions and pin functionality, and they must meet or exceed optical electrical characteristics.

"The products defined by this agreement represent a new international standard for optical components that interface with SONET/SDH systems, and offer the best pathway to the 10 gigabit-per-second user's club," says Patrice Durand, product line manager with the optronics business unit of Alcatel.