GigOptix and D-Lightsys Optical Interconnects to be Used on Airbus Military A400M

PALO ALTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GigOptix Inc. (OTCBB:GGOX), a provider of electronic engines for the optically connected digital world and D-Lightsys a provider of high performance optical interconnect solutions for severe environment applications, announced today their combined product certification for the A-400M military transport aircraft from Airbus Military.

“The A400M is the first truly new military transport aircraft of its category designed in over 30 years, with twice the capacity and twice the payload of the current aircraft types that it will replace. It is all set to become the new standard in military airlift.”

The D-Lightsys’ parallel optical transceivers which are designed for use in harsh conditions were selected by Airbus Equipment manufacturer’s for the A-400M fuel control systems due to its small footprint and low power capability. Fiber optic communications links are insensitive to Electro Magnetic Interferences (EMI), and do not generate EMI, they enable weight saving and guaranty huge available bandwidth. Hence they are being adopted in avionics systems to ensure the integrity and allow extendibility of the aircraft communication systems. In additions replacing copper with fiber optics significantly reduces weight and thus improves contributes to improved fuel economy.

The compact design of the GigOptix HXR3401 Transimpedance Amplifier (TIA) and HXT3101 VCSEL driver devices enables D-Lightsys to deliver highly integrated mechanically robust optical transceivers with the best power consumption in the market. The devices are built to withstand the severe environmental requirements of military and avionic applications and comply with AEEC / ARINC 804 transceiver specifications. Being protocol independent, they can be applied to Gigabit Ethernet, Fibre Channel, Infiniband or any specific communication application.

According to Airbus Military, “The A400M is the first truly new military transport aircraft of its category designed in over 30 years, with twice the capacity and twice the payload of the current aircraft types that it will replace. It is all set to become the new standard in military airlift.”

“D-Lightsys has been working closely with GigOptix to produce a superior system that will be resistant to the stresses of avionics,” states Mathias Pez, Chief Executive Officer of D-Lightsys S.A.S. “We are delighted to announce this success and look forward to profitable relationship for all parties.”

“Being certified for this advanced avionic application is another step forward for GigOptix which would not have been possible without our close partnership with D-Lightsys, who are clear leaders in their field,” stated Jörg Wieland, Vice President and General Manager of GigOptix-Helix.

About D-Lightsys

D-Lightsys, a Radiall Company, designs and manufactures high performance optical interconnect solutions for severe environment applications. It was founded in 2002 by former Thales Research and Technology scientists, all having a strong expertise in the fields of electronics, optoelectronics and severe environments requirements. D-Lightsys designs and manufactures high performance optical interconnect solutions for severe environment applications. In particular, D-Lightsys offers products and know-how fitting the requirements of avionics, space, transport and defense industries.

About GigOptix Inc.

GigOptix is a leading fabless manufacturer of electronic engines for the optically connected digital world. The Company offers a broad portfolio of high speed electronic devices including polymer electro-optic modulators, modulator drivers, laser drivers and TIAs for telecom, datacom, Infiniband and consumer optical systems, covering serial and parallel communication technologies from 1G to 120G. For more information, please visit www.GigOptix.com.

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