Proximion Introduces Industry's First Patch Cord Dispersion Compensation Module

Low-cost, small footprint solution uses Fiber Bragg grating to eliminate need for expensive dispersion management in single-channel deployments

Kista, Sweden, June 24, 2009 – Proximion Fiber Systems AB, a world-class provider of Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) based Dispersion Compensation Modules (DCMs), announced today the industry’s first Patch Cord Dispersion Compensation Module (DCM-PC), the newest member of its dispersion compensation product line.

The DCM-PC is a low-cost, small footprint solution that combines continuously chirped Fiber Bragg gratings into a simple patch cord. Because service providers are already using patch cords connecting boards within their systems, integrating the DCM into the cable eliminates the need for a separate piece of hardware for dispersion management.

Leveraging its transmission and FBG expertise, Proximion is the only DCM vendor that is able to offer a patch cord solution. The DCM-PC is a more cost-effective solution than the alternative – dispersion compensation fiber (DCF) – and provides the same functionality as DCF or traditional DCMs while replacing dedicated and costly terminal floor space needed to house hardware or DCF spools. Moreover, the DCM-PC connects one board to another consequently replacing the need for two additional patch cords.

“As service providers upgrade networks to 10 gigabits and beyond, dispersion becomes a new found problem,” noted Stefan Ekman, CEO of Proximion. “Operators and system vendors are using patch cords to deliver signals and by utilizing the cable with the DCM add-on, they are eliminating the need for another piece of hardware to maintain while solving the dispersion issue. The DCM-PC is a cost-effective, rugged option in small form factor.”

The DCM-PC enables vendors and operators to conduct dispersion in networks ranging from TDM based metropolitan and regional networks to channel or sub-band specific residual dispersion compensation in submarine DWDM terminals. The gratings are installed in a 30-to-110 centimeter long patch cord rather than in a separate module. The patch cord DCM is suitable for deployment in SONET/SDH and 10 gigabit Ethernet networks, in cable television or WDM networks.

The DCM-PC is available in different flavours that tightly controls the dispersion from -1300 to +1300 ps/nm over a 6,5 nm wide band.

As with the complete product line, the DCM-PC is built on Proximion’s unique and proprietary FBG manufacturing technology. Using FBGs, Proximion produces high-performance DCMs characterized by a lack of non-linear effects, no latency and very low power loss compared to traditional dispersion DCFs.

The patch cord DCM will be available for shipping to system houses and service provider during the third quarter of 2009.

About Proximion Fiber Systems AB
Proximion Fiber Systems AB is a world-class provider of optical modules and sub-systems based on Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) technology. By combining these unique optical devices with the truly innovative skills of our team, Proximion contributes to our customers’ and partners’ success in a variety of markets.

The founding team of Proximion has pioneered design, manufacturing, and application of advanced FBGs. Proximion’s unique and patented method enables manufacturing of FBGs with virtually any filter characteristics. Proximion is a privately held company headquartered in Kista, Sweden.

Media Contacts:
Lynda Starr, Vantage Communications for Proximion
Phone: +1 973 386 5949
Email: LStarr@pr-vantage.com

Stefan Ekman, CEO, Proximion
Phone: +46 70 319 75 35
E-mail: Stefan.Ekman@proximion.com

Tobias Persson, VP Marketing & Sales, Proximion
Phone: +46 70 887 44 01
E-mail: Tobias.Persson@proximion.com