Opnext Introduces Next-Generation 100G DP-QPSK Coherent Transponder Module

Opnext, Inc. (NASDAQ: OPXT), a leader in high speed optical communications technology and a pioneer in 100Gbps coherent since first demonstrating its technology over North American and European networks more than 18 months ago, today introduced its 100Gbps DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) MSA transponder module. Opnext´s MSA module, the OTM-100, is based on the latest second generation coherent technology and offers performance, power, size and cost advantages over first generation technologies and other alternatives in a 5" x 7" industry standard module.

The OTM-100 module is a fully-integrated, 100Gbps optical transponder that enables network equipment vendors to build 100Gbps metro, regional, long haul, ultra long haul and submarine transport solutions. The 100G Digital Coherent Signal Processing LSI (DSP-LSI) in the digital signal processor is made by NTT Electronics Corporation and is the product of the "R&D on High Speed Optical Transport System Technologies" project which was supported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan. Using Soft Decision Forward Error Correction (SD-FEC), the OTM-100 module improves reach, minimizing or eliminating the need for regeneration points, simplifies network deployment rules and reduces operating costs.

The OTM-100 module is ideal for transport systems that are designed around 10Gbps engineering rules with inline dispersion compensation modules (DCMs) as well as newer systems without DCMs. The OTM-100 is built on coherent detection technology to tolerate linear fiber plant impairments such as Chromatic Dispersion (CD) and Polarization Mode Dispersion (PMD). Additionally, the ability to apply digital signal processing techniques to remove channel impairments means that the new transponder modules will work in existing fiber plants designed for 10Gbps and, in some cases, even in fiber plants designed for 2.5Gbps, without any changes except for the transponder itself.

"Opnext has been leading the development of 100Gbps technology, including defining the ecosystem of the supply chain, for the past four years," said Mike Chan, President of the Opnext subsystems business unit and Opnext´s Executive Vice President, Business Development & Marketing. "Our strength is in leveraging our engineering know-how to put key technologies like coherent to work to deliver best-in-class performance."

"Over the next three years, the WDM transmission market will rapidly transition from 40Gbps to coherent 100Gbps as carriers take advantage of the better cost per bit performance of 100Gbps," said Andrew Schmitt, Optical Directing Analyst with Infonetics Research, Inc. "The availability of 100Gbps coherent technology from module vendors like Opnext will help extend availability of this technology and drive the adoption of 100Gbps technology in carrier networks."

Opnext´s plug-and-play technology will allow carriers to upgrade their existing line systems to 100Gbps without having to strand capacity or light new fiber. This technology eliminates the need for external dispersion compensation, which reduces cost, minimizes IP latency and allows for deployment over older installed fiber with poor transmission characteristics.

Opnext expects the OTM-100 module will begin mass production starting in April of 2012.

Exhibiting at ECOC 2011

Opnext will demonstrate its full suite of products and technologies in Stand 1522 during the ECOC Exhibition being held at the Palexpo Congress Center in Geneva.

For more information, visit our website at www.opnext.com.
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About Opnext

Opnext (NASDAQ:OPXT) is the optical technology partner of choice supplying systems providers and OEMs worldwide with one of the industry´s largest portfolios of 10Gbps and higher next generation optical products and solutions. The Company´s industry expertise, future-focused thinking and commitment to research and development combine in bringing to market the most advanced technology to the communications, defense, security and biomedical industries. Formed out of Hitachi, Opnext has built on more than 30 years experience in advanced technology to establish its broad portfolio of solutions and solid reputation for excellence in service and delivering value to its customers. For additional information, visit www.opnext.com.