July 16, 2002 — OMM Inc., a supplier of MEMS-based photonic switching modules, and Lightwave Microsystems Corp., a designer and manufacturer of semi-custom planar lightwave circuits (PLCs) and integrated optical communications devices, announced an agreement to develop a new line of wavelength management and switching products that integrate both MEMS and PLCs.
According to John Kenney, Lightwave’s chief technology officer, the two companies will be able to combine MEMS switch arrays with variable optical attenuators, dynamic gain equalizers and other components to make more cost-effective, integrated components.
A Lightwave spokeswoman said the company expects to begin beta testing new products that combine both companies’ technologies during the first half of 2003. It has not been announced which company will brand and market the new products.