This effort shall develop a product for high speed, high data throughput Wavelength Division Multiplexing optical networks through an integrated Micro-electro-mechanical System - Epitaxial Liftoff (MEMS-ELO) manufacturing approach. We shall develop a low cost wavelength-tunable optical detector for low cost fiber optic LAN and WAN applications. Through controlled, real time tuning to optical channels, we can use a high data capacity LAN just as we currently use two way radio channels for communication. Existing fiber lines can be outfitted with this Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) system to upgrade capacity to multiple channels and terabit networks. This multi-faceted effort will include the technology integration, the detector module design, the communications system design, manufacturing integration and the supplier and customer relationships required for a successful market entry. WDM is quickly emerging in the fiber optic arena. Building upon the prototypes produced in the Phase I effort, this effort shall outline a WDM network requiring only a single, low cost, tunable detector component and a single transmitter per hub. Anticipated Benefits and
Potential Commercial Applications: This effort shall produce a high speed, low cost, optically tuning detector for a wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) fiber optic network. We will address the module component and system design, manufacturability, cost, reliability, and LAN system layout.
