EXFO and Opnext Achieve Full Interoperability, Successfully Testing IEEE-Compliant 100 Gigabit Ethernet Optics

These successful interoperability trials mean vendors can test CFP MSA-based 100GbE transceivers while network equipment manufacturers (NEMs) can move more quickly and confidently with their system testing-one of the contributing aspects to accelerating overall time to market.

QUEBEC CITY, Jan. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. (NASDAQ: EXFO, TSX: EXF) and Opnext, Inc. announced today that they have successfully completed their joint interoperability trials for testing IEEE-compliant 100 gigabit Ethernet optics.

Using the EXFO FTB-85100G Packet Blazer (40G/100G) and the Opnext 100GBASE-LR4 CFP Multi-Source Agreement (MSA)-compliant optical module, the trials included generating 100 gigabit Ethernet IP traffic at 100% wire speed with pseudo-random bit sequence (PRBS) patterns as well as monitoring error-free transmission with full Ethernet statistics.

This successful result brings together two different technological innovations, which are key in enabling the rapid development and deployment of next-generation carrier and data-center 100G networks. The EXFO FTB-85100G's signal conditioning feature includes pre-emphasis and receiver-equalization control-testing capabilities to provide Opnext and other transceiver manufacturers with a powerful way to optimize the interface between the host ICs on the tester and gearboxes inside the CFP in order to get best interoperability of the interface.

"Opnext is excited to collaborate with EXFO to provide a complete 100G design and test solution for our mutual customers," said Tadayuki Kanno , president of Opnext's module and device business units. "Opnext's 100G CFP optical module continues to gain momentum as the first-generation 100G transceiver, allowing NEMs, carriers and data-center owners to seamlessly establish 100G connectivity."

"One of EXFO's major strengths is always being at the forefront of new technologies, and we maintain this leadership by playing an active role right from the beginning-during early development," said Etienne Gagnon , EXFO's Vice-President of Product Management and Marketing. "In this case, we were the first test and measurement manufacturer to release a portable 100G tester and the first and only one to support the signal conditioning testing capability. This allowed us to work closely with Opnext at this critical stage of their 100G CFP product development by providing a robust product that meets both R&D and manufacturing test requirements."

In addition to the signal conditioning feature, EXFO's Packet Blazer offers a full range of other unique and advanced 802.3ba compliance test functions to support the whole gamut of 40G/100G and OTU3/OTU4 OTN testing applications, as it is part of a growing set of 100G test solutions. EXFO's end-to-end 100G portfolio-covering early system development through to field deployment-helps customers establish thorough testing methods that go beyond just compliance to address a variety of complex issues such as optical transceiver testing.

For further information on FTB-85100G, please visit www.EXFO.com.

About EXFO

EXFO is a leading provider of test and service assurance solutions for network operators and equipment manufacturers in the global telecommunications industry. The Telecom Division, which accounts for almost 90% of the company's revenues, offers a wide range of innovative solutions to assess optical networks, from the core to access, as well as next-generation IP infrastructures and related triple-play services. The Life Sciences and Industrial Division offers solutions in medical device and opto-electronics assembly, fluorescence microscopy and other life science sectors. For more information, visit www.EXFO.com.

About Opnext

Opnext (NASDAQ: OPXT) is the optical technology partner of choice supplying systems providers and OEMs worldwide with the industry's largest portfolio of 10G and higher next generation optical products and solutions. The Company's industry expertise, future-focused thinking and commitment to research and development combine in bringing to market the most advanced technology to the communications, defense, security and biomedical industries. Formed out of Hitachi, Opnext has built on more than 30 years experience in advanced technology to establish its broad portfolio of solutions and solid reputation for excellence in service and delivering value to its customers. For additional information, visit www.opnext.com.

SOURCE EXFO ELECTRO-OPTICAL ENGINEERING INC.