NEW TECHNOLOGY CREATES AN INDEPENDENT MULTIMODE ATTENUATOR

Advanced Interconnect (AI) introduces a new technology that drastically reduces the mode and wavelength dependence typically seen in currently available multimode attenuators. The NDF (neutral density filter) Attenuator Series, a small form factor mode independent multimode loopback attenuator, is designed around AIs proprietary attenuation technology.

March 4, 2002 (Franklin, MA)....Advanced Interconnect (AI) introduces a new technology that drastically reduces the mode and wavelength dependence typically seen in currently available multimode attenuators. The NDF (neutral density filter) Attenuator Series, a small form factor mode independent multimode loopback attenuator, is designed around AIs proprietary attenuation technology.

While 0dB loopbacks and standard attenuation values are available, Advanced Interconnects attenuation technology allows for an infinite number of custom values other than standard 5dB, 10dB, 15dB 20dB," states Jeff Bonja, Business Development Manager for AI.

The NDF Attenuator addresses the significant variations in laser-source launch conditions between Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (VCSEL) transceiver manufacturers. The variations in these conditions excite random and unstable modes that affect the attenuation performance of typical short length loopback attenuators. Most transceivers used in high data rate multimode systems have 850nm VCSEL sources. Although VCSEL devices are cost effective, it is very difficult to control certain beam output characteristics, such as beam size, shape and power distribution. This results in the inability to attain mode stability in the their small footprint.

The NDF attenuator resolves this issue through its novel mode independent attenuation technology," Bonja adds.

In addition to its mode independent attenuation technology, AI has redesigned the NDF Attenuator housing. To ensure long-life under cyclic harsh environmental testing conditions, the new design reduces the footprint of the attenuator and improves the reliability for both standard use and for environmental testing. The NDF Attenuator is undergoing Telcordia GR-910 evaluation.

AI is a wholly owned subsidiary of Woodhead Industries. Woodhead Industries, Inc. and its subsidiaries develop, manufacture and market electronic and optical connectivity products, serving the industrial, medical, telecommunications and data communications markets. Through Advanced Interconnect, Woodhead provides quality optical and electrical connectivity solutions and contract manufacturing services for its customers in the data and telecommunications as well as medical marketplaces. Woodheads product lines, including six globally recognized industry-leading brands: applicom®, Brad Harrison®, mPm, NetAlert, RJ-Lnxx® and SST make Woodhead a premier supplier of connectivity solutions and manufacturing services worldwide. More information about AI is available at the websites: www.ai-global.com or Woodhead at: www.Woodhead.com.
For additional information on AI and its revolutionary loopback attenuator series, contact AI at (800) 989-3627 or email: info@ai-global.com.