PITTSBURGH, Feb. 29, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- II‐VI Incorporated (NASDAQ:IIVI), a leading provider of solutions for next generation optical networks, today announced the prototype-stage availability of a burst-mode gain-controlled optical amplifier designed for upstream transmission in NG-PON2 broadband access networks.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2455e963-f9c7-4210-b969-14ba4430ef93

The Full Service Access Network (FSAN) industry interest group has selected TWDM PON technology as the NG-PON2 standard for the next generation passive optical network architecture. This architecture supports the convergence of the communication infrastructure for services such as residential broadband, enterprise access and wireless backhaul. II-VI has developed an optical amplifier for TWDM PON upstream links using patent pending technology.  

“This new technology showcases our ability to leverage our core expertise and deliver application-specific optical amplifier solutions,” said Dr. Sanjai Parthasarathi, Vice President, Product Marketing and Strategy, Optical Communications Group. “We designed an optical amplifier to match the requirements of TWDM PON upstream transmission and enable service providers to increase bandwidth to their subscribers over their existing passive optical network infrastructure.”

Passive optical networks are economical due to their broadcast architecture.  II-VI’s new optical amplifier implements a novel gain-control technique that adapts instantaneously to rapid changes in optical signal levels received, as subscribers take turns communicating upstream from various distances. This fast adaptability enables service providers to scale up the bandwidth on their existing distribution infrastructure, while the time-shared functionality minimizes capital expenditures.

II-VI’s burst-mode gain-controlled optical amplifiers have completed customer laboratory trials. Prototype units are available for evaluation.   

About II-VI Incorporated

II-VI Incorporated, a global leader in engineered materials and opto-electronic components is a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Headquartered in Saxonburg, Pennsylvania, with research and development, manufacturing, sales, service, and distribution facilities worldwide, the Company produces a wide variety of application-specific photonic and electronic materials and components, and deploys them in various forms including integrated with advanced software to enable our customers.

CONTACT:
Mark Lourie
Director of Marketing
Optical Communications Group
(781) 569-1607
www.ii-vi-photonics.com