SANTA CLARA, Calif., Dec. 9, 2008 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Redfern Integrated Optics, Inc. (RIO), the leading supplier of low noise external cavity lasers for fiber optic sensing, RF photonics and other applications, today announced the availability of a new tool for fiber optic sensing systems designers - the PLANEX(tm) Evaluation Module RIOEM01. This easy-to-use module, including software, delivers the excellent phase noise performance and narrow line width of the RIO PLANEX(tm) laser in a module that simply plugs into any 110V or 220V outlet.
This completely self-contained module houses the RIO PLANEX(tm) laser, low-noise laser driver, TEC driver, controller and power supply. Communication with the module is accomplished via USB interface to a RIO-supplied Graphical User Interface (GUI) software residing on the user's computer.
Further, the module employs laser bias current and temperature adjustment circuitry to accurately control and monitor laser performance, preserving the key characteristics of low phase noise and narrow line width. A power supply delivers power to the module from any 110/220V wall outlet and the SMF-28 fiber or PM PANDA fiber pigtail is outfitted with an FC/APC connector. This simple, 'plug and play' module gives the designer of fiber optic sensing systems a head start toward the evaluation of new system applications by eliminating costly, time-consuming set-up and maintenance.
"Addressing and enabling the product development needs of our existing and prospective customers is a key objective for RIO,'" said Dr. Radu Barsan, chairman, president and CEO of RIO. "We are pleased to offer this Evaluation Module, in order to make subsystem testing as simple as possible."
New applications emerging in the field of fiber optic sensing include interferometric and Brillouin DTSS systems for Oil & Gas, Security, LIDAR, Test & Measurement and Structural Integrity Monitoring. The RIO PLANEX(tm) Evaluation Module is an ideal tool to simplify and expedite subsystem test for these applications, evaluate the performance advantages of the RIO PLANEX(tm) laser, and deliver proof of concept solutions with real data that can be rapidly developed into state-of-the-art products. The Evaluation Module is available and shipping now.
About RIO Inc.
Redfern Integrated Optics, Inc. (RIO) develops and manufactures optical transmitters based on its proprietary planar external cavity laser technology (PLANEX(tm)), which delivers unique price-performance advantages in multiple markets. RIO's product lines include 1550nm CW narrow line width lasers and long-reach 2.5-10 Gbps directly modulated TOSAs, with DWDM wavelength stability, at low cost, small size and with low power dissipation. For more information, please visit www.rio-inc.com.