Xtellus Unveils Award Winning Wavelength Selective Switch Program
Evaluation by Israel's Office of the Chief Scientist Leads to Selection for Research Award
Morris Plains, NJ, March 1, 2006 - Xtellus, a leading supplier of advanced ROADM technology for the metro and long-haul optical equipment markets, announced today its selection by the Office of the Chief Scientist of the State of Israel to receive a research award for the continued development of Xtellus' next-generation wavelength selective switch.

Xtellus' technology capabilities and innovative approach to wavelength switching were subjected to a rigorous and highly competitive approval process by the Office of the Chief Scientist. This evaluation found Xtellus' design the best suited for the development of advanced wavelength management solutions for reconfigurable optical networks.

This novel wavelength selective switch (WSS) program is based on Xtellus' proven liquid crystal technology that is at the heart of Xtellus' industry leading family of ROADM technology. Advantages for ROADM systems suppliers considering WSS solutions include:

  • Improved Manufacturability and Reliability - liquid crystal-based design overcomes manufacturing and operational limitations of other current approaches;
  • High Optical Path Capacity - one common port and up to eighteen input/output ports;
  • Bi-Directional Support -modules can be used in either direction;
  • Unique Platform Features - using the Xtellus common ROADM interface, this WSS design shares the same control and power interfaces as well as the same physical footprint as Xtellus' proven commercial wavelength blocker products.
Xtellus' platform feature enables a unique future-proof ROADM design by offering a simple upgrade path from wavelength blockers (WBs) to WSS. "The ROADM market is the fastest growing segment of the resurgent optical networking market," commented Michael Howard, principal analyst, Infonetics Research. "Companies that offer multiple compatible platforms like WBs and WSS are positioned for both near-term market opportunities as well as growth in next generation systems."

"We are very pleased to receive this recognition of our unique WSS approach by the Office of the Chief Scientist," added Dr. Gil Cohen, chief technology officer, Xtellus. "Since the company's inception, we have focused on harnessing the potential of liquid crystal technology to deliver the most reliable, best-performing, and most manufacturable solutions for reconfigurable optical networks. Xtellus' expansion into wavelength selective switching products demonstrates the continued merit of liquid crystal and our commitment to innovation and choice for ROADM system suppliers."

Xtellus will be at the OFC/NFOEC conference in Anaheim, CA., March 5-9, booth 1112.

About The Office of the Chief Scientist of the Ministry of Trade Industry & Labor
The Office of the Chief Scientist (OCS) of the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Labor is responsible for encouraging technological entrepreneurship, leveraging Israel's science-skilled resources, encouraging high value R&D, enhancing the knowledge base of Israeli high-tech industries, and promoting cooperation in R&D both at the national and international levels.


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