Capella Offers The CR-EX 1x20 WSS

Capella Intelligent Subsystems added its name to the list of 1x20 wavelength-selective switch (WSS) suppliers this week with the unveiling of the CR-EX. The 1x20 WSS offers an integrated monitoring capability, wide passbands, high extinction ratio, and low cross talk and insertion loss for all 21 ports, Capella asserts.

The CR-EX fits in the same footprint as the CR50 and CR100 and is designed to support either fixed attenuation or constant power mode. Like the CR50 and CR100, the 1x20 module’s optional integrated optical channel power monitor (OCPM) eliminates the need for standalone optical monitoring, which reduces cost and footprint within the DWDM chassis, Capella points out. The integrated OCPM leverages the company’s patented Wavelength Connectivity Confirmation capability.

Pat Day, Capella’s vice president of engineering and product development asserted, “Our CR-EX offers best in class optical performance, the lowest profile, and the lowest power consumption on the market today. The CR-EX, with its integrated optical channel power monitor, and 1x20 (drop) or 20x1 (add) functionality or combined add/drop in a single module, is the complete WSS solution for route and select ROADM architectures.” Capella says the CRx family has passed required reliability and quality standards and is generally available and shipping in volume to multiple customers.

November 1, 2011

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