Redfern Integrated Optics, Inc. Adds New Features to ORION(tm) Module Platform

RIO Will Showcase the New Fast-tunable, Multi-interface Module At Laser World
of Photonics in Munich, Germany, Hall B1 - Booth 301, June 15-18, 2009 

SANTA CLARA, Calif. and MUNICH, Germany, June 11, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --
Redfern Integrated Optics, Inc. (RIO), the leading supplier of low noise
external cavity lasers and subsystems for fiber optic sensing, LIDAR,
reflectometry, RF photonics and other applications, today announced several new
features becoming available for its ORION(tm) Module platform. RIO will
showcase this new product at the Laser World of Photonics 2009 tradeshow in
Munich, Germany, in hall B1 - booth 301, June 15-18, 2009. 

Based on the unprecedented success of the recently introduced ORION(tm) Module
at Photonics West '09, the tunable module is positioned to provide end users
with a new fast frequency tuning functionality, or a direct amplitude
modulation functionality in one single compact easy-to-use package.
Communication with the module is accomplished via SPI, RS232,or RS485 interface
-- a set of industry-standard options allowing for reduced development cycle
time to the end user. A RIO-supplied Graphical User Interface (GUI) further
allows for simple integration into advanced fiber optic sensing systems. 

RIO's ORION(tm) Tunable Module now allows end users to directly modulate
frequency with a bandwidth of 0-10kHz -- via the unit's 9-pin D-sub connector,
over the unit's specified case temperature of 0-70 degrees C. This easy-to-use
feature is part of the intrinsic design of the PLANEX(tm) semiconductor laser
platform and does not require complex and costly high-voltage drive electronics
commonly required by piezo-electric tuning technologies. Alternatively, the
module can be used in direct power modulation mode. 

"RIO's quality policy states that we 'first understand our customers'
expectations, then meet or exceed our commitment to those expectations,'" said
Dr. Radu Barsan, chairman, president and CEO of RIO. "Five months after the
successful introduction of the ORION(tm) Module, we are offering the enhanced
functionality that many of our customers required, including fast tuning,
direct modulation, and multi-interface support, while preserving the cost
effectiveness and Telcordia reliability of our proprietary technology. We are
pleased to offer this capability without the need for additional components
with unproven reliability such as piezos." 

Applications that will specifically benefit from the new product enhancements
include fiber optic sensing and Brillouin DTSS for Oil & Gas exploration and
production monitoring, pipeline and structural health monitoring, LIDAR, and
high-resolution metrology. The ORION(tm) Tunable Module is available and
shipping now. 

About RIO Inc.

Redfern Integrated Optics, Inc. (RIO) develops and manufactures optical sources
and subsystems 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 single frequency narrow linewidth
lasers and modules with very low noise, unparalleled wavelength stability, low
cost, small size, low power dissipation, and Telecom grade lifetime
reliability. For more information, please visit www.rio-inc.com. 

CONTACT: Redfern Integrated Optics, Inc.
         Anthony Pisano, Director of Sales
         408-970-3500 ext. 310
         tony.pisano@rio-inc.com