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- March 2000 - 
January - February - March - April - May - June
July - August - September - October - November - December
(For press Releases from 1999 - CLICK HERE)

CyOptics Inc. introduces a novel technology for 40Gbps and ultra-long-haul 10Gbps transmission.

 The company develops and manufactures highly compact, very high-speed components for optical networking based on Indium Phosphide semiconductor technology. In addition, CyOptics products enable integration of multiple functions, such as signal generation, modulation and power monitoring, into one highly integrated component. CyOptics' patented Pulse Generating Laser technology enables very high speed and long haul DWDM transmission, ideal for implementation of Return to Zero and Optical Time Domain Multiplexing transmission systems. CyOptics semiconductor-based Electro-absorption modulator technology enables long-haul, high-speed DWDM transmission while reducing overall system size and cost.

For more information, visit the CyOptics website at www.cyoptics.com.

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Lightwave Microsystems Corporation Presence at OFC 2000 Positions Company as a Leading Integrated Optical Component Supplier

San Jose, CA, March 20, 2000  - Lightwave Microsystems Corporation unveiled an array of active and passive components that will significantly impact the competitive landscape of optical networking. The components were introduced at the Optical Fiber Communications Conference, the largest tradeshow for fiber optics in North America, held March 7 - 9 in Baltimore, Maryland.

Highlights of Lightwave Microsystems product introductions at OFC include:

LightWeaver™ 40-Channel AWG DWDM MUX/DMUX; Lightwave Microsystems introduced a range of arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) based demultiplexers offering superior performance for long haul and metro DWDM systems applications.  These passive optical devices are based on Lightwave Microsystems  proprietary planar silica LightWeaverTM waveguide technology and are shipping to customers today.  Lightwave Microsystems & DWDM MUX/DMUX AWGs are available with both standard and wide-band passbands in channel counts from 16 to 40 and channel spacings of 100 GHz and 200 GHz.

LightWeaver™ 2x2 Optical Switch 8-Array - The 2x2 Optical Switch Arrays, based on Lightwave Microsystems' proprietary planar LightWeaver™ waveguide technology, can be used for optical add/drop multiplexing, line protection, and by-pass applications. These new 2x2 optical switches are the first active components from Lightwave Microsystems and will be available for sampling within the next few months.

LightWeaver™ Variable Optical Attenuator 8-Array - The Variable Optical Attenuator Arrays, based on Lightwave Microsystems' proprietary planar LightWeaver™ waveguide technology are designed to be integrated with other optical components, such as arrayed waveguide gratings, on the same substrate. The variable optical attenuator arrays, can be used for dynamic power balancing in DWDM systems and dynamic power leveling in optical add/drop multiplexing. These active devices will be available for sampling within the next few months.

16-Channel OADM Wafer-Lightwave Microsystems previewed a 16-Channel Optical Add/Drop Multiplexer wafer. This unique design is Lightwave Microsystems'  first offering of this kind and demonstrates the potential for optical integration.

Lightwave Microsystems Corporation designs, manufactures and markets standard, custom and semi-custom LightWeaverTM planar lightwave circuits and integrated devices for advanced optical communication systems. Devices are fabricated using both silica and polymer waveguide technology to provide passive and active components. Passive components include AWG DWDM MUX/DMUXs, splitters, couplers, and taps. Active components include optical switch arrays and variable optical attenuators. More information on Lightwave Microsystems Corporation can be found at www.lightwavemicro.com.

Lightwave Microsystems Corporation Introduces 40-Channel 100 GHz AWG DWDM MUX/DMUX for Long Haul and Metro DWDM Systems Applications

San Jose, CA, March 1, 2000 - Lightwave Microsystems Corporation, a leading integrated optical component supplier announced today that it is manufacturing a 40-Channel 100 GHz AWG DWDM Multiplexer/DeMultiplexer for long haul and metro dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) systems applications. The 40-Channel AWG DWDM MUX/DMUX device is designed to enable the transmission of 40-channels of information on a single fiber, with each channel operating at a different optical wavelength.  More information on Lightwave Microsystems Corporation can be found at www.lightwavemicro.com.

CORNING, N.Y. -  March 7, 2000 Corning Incorporated’s (NYSE: GLW) Optical Networking Devices business today introduced the PurePath Dynamic Spectral Equalizer, a liquid crystal-based device that extends the reach of communication networks by correcting spectral non-uniformities. Spectral non-uniformities occur when wavelengths traveling through a system begin to vary in intensity. Correcting this variation can significantly enhance overall system performance.

A panel of judges at the Conference on Optical Fiber Communication (OFC) selected the PurePath Dynamic Spectrum Equalizer as a New Product Award Winner. It features outstanding resolution, fast response time, high isolation and low insertion loss. It can individually attenuate 40 channels at 100 GHz spacing, and is extendable to 80 channels at 50 GHz. Used in conjunction with an optical amplifier, it can provide dynamic gain equalization on a per-channel basis.

"The Dynamic Spectrum Equalizer has already stimulated strong commercial interest from our customers," said Mark Newhouse, business manager, Corning Optical Networking Devices. "This award endorses that interest and supports Corning’s continuing efforts to be the premier supplier of optical layer devices."

In September 1999, Corning demonstrated and launched its family of PurePath optical switches, a line of optical networking devices designed to extend the reach of long-haul and metro DWDM networks by improving signal quality. Additional information on rest of Corning’s extensive line of photonic products is available on Corning’s Photonic Technologies Division website at www.corningphotonics.com.

Established in 1851, Corning Incorporated (www.corning.com) creates leading-edge technologies for the fastest-growing markets of the world’s economy. Corning manufactures optical fiber, cable and photonic products for the telecommunications industry; and high-performance displays and components for television and other communications-related industries. The company also uses advanced materials to manufacture products for scientific, semiconductor and environmental markets. Corning’s revenues in 1999 were $4.3 billion.

Baltimore, MD-March 6, 2000-Altitun announced at the OFC show today several upgrades and additions to its AnywaveT line.  With the introduction of the AnywaveT 65 and 55, available immediately, Altitun now offers a selection of Distributed Bragg Reflector (DBR) tunable lasers.  These additions, along with upgrades to Altitun's existing products, position Altitun as a provider of a complete suite of tunable laser solutions.

Lennart Ramberg, CEO of Altitun, says, "With the addition of DBR's to the Anywave line we now cover all the bases, offering tunable laser solutions for applications requiring higher power over a shorter tuning range to those that demand the widest possible tuning range."

The MP-2320/TX and MP-2320/RX are RF/Optic transmitter and receiver set are designed for antenna remoting and broadband RF (0.1 - 2.05 GHz) transmission applications, using singlemode fiber optic cable. The transmitter uses a high efficient DFB laser diode, with an operating wavelength of 1310 (nms) that provides low noise and high dynamic range RF performance. The receiver utilizes a high speed, low distortion, PIN photodiode detector, that is integrated with a broadband RF post amplifier. For more information visit MPS on the web at www.erols.com/mpss  and/or contact by phone at (610)344-7676.

Download the SPEC sheets here:
 MP-2320/RX.pdf  -  MP-2320/TX.pdf

The Realtime™ Model RT-110BT Network Tester is a cost effective way to determine a cable fault condition in a 10 Base-T or a 100 Base-TX network. Using an Intel™ Level One ethernet chip, the unit auto-negotiates between 100Base-TX full duplex, 100 Base-TX half duplex, 10Base-T full duplex, and 10 Base-T half duplex determining the maximum performance which can be achieved in the cabling and hardware infrastructure in the process.

For more information visit us at www.red-hawk.com

BEDFORD, MA — CorningLasertron, part of the Photonic Technologies Division of Corning Incorporated (NYSE:GLW), has announced that they will be conducting a live demonstration of their Raman pump module, designed for next-generation Long Haul Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) systems, at their booth (#1133) at the 2000 Optical Fiber Conference in Baltimore, Maryland from March 5 – March 10.

CorningLasertron’s Raman pump module, developed in collaboration with Gould Fiber Optics, integrates four multiplexed single-mode diode pump lasers with multiple passive opto-electronic components. These modules provide high output power at the wavelengths required for Raman amplification. Unlike erbium doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs), Raman amplifiers utilize the optical transmission fiber currently installed in a network to provide gain. Raman amplification, when used in conjunction with conventional EDFAs, can significantly increase the distance between expensive electronic regeneration equipment. EDFA – Raman amplified systems are also a key enabler of 40 Gb/s networks.

"We are very excited to be demonstrating a new Raman pump product that we believe will be a critical enabler for the next generation ultra-high speed DWDM systems that utilize Raman amplification," stated David Nislick, Vice President of Marketing at CorningLasertron. "As a market share, technology and reliability leader for the supply 980nm pump lasers, CorningLasertron will continue to leverage its leadership position to launch new amplification products to all segments of the telecommunications market."

CorningLasertron is a manufacturer of DWDM active fiber-optic components used in long distance and metropolitan wired telephony networks. CorningLasertron’s pump lasers are deployed in major long distance networks and rings connecting headends in CATV systems. CorningLasertron’s advanced transmission products and detectors are used in the long distance, access and metropolitan portions of telephony networks. Product literature can be requested by e-mail at info@LasertronInc.com. Information about CorningLasertron is available at www.LasertronInc.com.

Established in 1851, Corning Incorporated (www.corning.com) creates leading-edge technologies for the fastest-growing markets of the world’s economy. Corning manufactures optical fiber, cable and photonic products for the telecommunications industry; and high-performance displays and components for television and other communications-related industries. The company also uses advanced materials to manufacture products for scientific, semiconductor and environmental markets. Corning’s revenues in 1999 were $4.3 billion. More information on Corning optical fiber is available at www.corningfiber.com.

Corning's New Dispersion Compensation Module Drives Down the Cost of High-Bit-Rate Networks, Unlocks Greater Bandwidth
New PureForm™ DCM^® Module developed to complement LEAF^® optical fiber

CORNING, N.Y. — Corning Incorporated (NYSE: GLW) today introduced a dispersion compensation module, optimized for Corning® LEAF® optical fiber, that will enhance the performance of tomorrow’s networks.

The PureForm™ DCM® Module for LEAF fiber reduces chromatic dispersion across all wavelengths in the conventional 1550 nm transmission window. The combination of the PureForm DCM and LEAF fiber results in increased system performance and significant system cost reduction beyond that already provided by this non-zero dispersion-shifted (NZ-DSF) fiber and conventional DCMs.

"As an industry leader, Corning has used its expertise in fiber design, processing and manufacturing to develop this novel DCM Module for Corning LEAF fiber," said Scott Quist, PureForm product line manager. "The PureForm DCM Module is the latest in a family of specially optimized DCM modules that Corning will produce to benefit future networks."

Long-haul network architecture is evolving rapidly, and deployment of non-zero dispersion-shifted fiber is surpassing standard single mode fiber for long-haul network applications. Additionally, emerging technologies such as 40 Gb/s and ultra-long reach devices are being developed to provide more bandwidth. Historically, DCM technology has been optimized only for standard single-mode fiber.

Tomorrow’s network architectures that incorporate ultra-long reach 10 Gb/s or 40 Gb/s technology will require DCM Modules optimized for NZ-DSF fibers with broad slope compensation to maximize overall system performance. Corning has addressed this need by creating a DCM Module that optimizes LEAF fiber. LEAF fiber has become the fiber of choice for new long-haul system developments, its advanced design offering large effective area and low dispersion to create the lowest-cost-per-bit solution over conventional fibers.

For more information about the rest of Corning’s extensive line of photonic products, please see the Photonic Technologies Division’s website at www.corningphotonics.com.

Established in 1851, Corning Incorporated (www.corning.com) creates leading-edge technologies for the fastest-growing markets of the world’s economy. Corning manufactures optical fiber, cable and photonic products for the telecommunications industry; and high-performance displays and components for television and other communications-related industries. The company also uses advanced materials to manufacture products for scientific, semiconductor and environmental markets. Corning’s revenues in 1999 were $4.3 billion. More information on Corning optical fiber is available at www.corningfiber.com.

Centerpoint Broadband Technologies closes third with over $40 million in financing led by Menlo Ventures and U.S. Venture Partners
Additional Funding Demonstrates Confidence from Leading Investment Firms and Current Shareholders

San Jose, CA - March 1, 2000 - Centerpoint Broadband Technologies, Inc., a developer of optical network transport solutions, today announced the completion of its Series C preferred financing of over $40 million, the majority of which was provided by leading investment groups, Menlo Ventures and U.S. Venture Partners. Indicative of their belief in Centerpoint's success, current shareholders BancBoston Ventures Inc., ComVentures, ViVentures, and Cisco Systems, Inc. also participated in this round.

"The investment by our new investors and the continued support of our current shareholders is a reflection of our success in developing our optical transport systems," said Dana Waldman, president and CEO of Centerpoint. "This financing will enable us to accelerate the development of our systems, attract a greater number of partners, and continue to build a strong organization."

"Centerpoint's innovative implementation of its regional and metro systems gives the Company a strong offering to meet carriers' increasing services and bandwidth demands," said DuBose Montgomery, general partner and managing director of Menlo Ventures. "Having watched Centerpoint build momentum from its inception, we are confident in the Company's ability to see its roadmap to fruition."

With spending for North American transport systems estimated to exceed $17 billion in 2003, Centerpoint is well positioned for tremendous growth. The Company's unique architecture is ideal for carriers' whose regional and metropolitan area networks are transitioning from circuit-based to packet-based networks.

"Centerpoint is a particularly sound investment because the Company's breakthrough technology is the very solution the optical networking market has been clamoring for," said Steven Krausz, general partner at U.S. Venture Partners. "Comprised of some of the industry's foremost communications systems' experts, the executive team at Centerpoint possesses the leadership skills and technical expertise to realize the Company's technology and financial goals."

About Menlo Ventures

Menlo Ventures is a dedicated team of investment professionals with a broad range of industry experience in software, communications, and life sciences. We are proud of our reputation not only as highly skilled investors, but as ethical and reasonable individuals as well. We view ourselves as business partners with our entrepreneurs, and our goal is to provide them with the best possible services that the investment community can offer.

About U.S. Venture Partners

U.S. Venture Partners (USVP) is a venture capital firm dedicated to helping entrepreneurs realize their dreams of building world class companies that are leaders in their industry. Since inception in 1981, the Company has raised more than $1.5 billion in seven funds. USVP focuses entirely on early stage opportunities in technology and health care.

About Centerpoint Broadband Technologies

Centerpoint Broadband Technologies is a rapidly growing optical networking company supplying regional and metropolitan area networks with flexible, high-capacity transport systems to support the exploding growth of Internet and data traffic. Centerpoint's cutting edge technology is ideal for aggregating and transporting multi-service traffic within optical networks at rates well above 10 Gbps. This same core competency is also being used to dramatically expand throughput of broadband wireless networks bringing high-capacity broadband services closer to the end-user. Founded in 1999, Centerpoint is privately held and has secured over $55 million in funding from several leading investors including BancBoston Ventures Inc., ComVentures, ViVentures, Menlo Ventures, U.S. Venture Partners and Cisco Systems, Inc.

For more information about Centerpoint Broadband Technologies, please contact Gloria Uribes, 408-452-2942, Chaim Haas, 212-320-2133, or visit the Web site at www.centerpoint.com.

SKALI REBRANDS FOR PAN-ASIA INTERNET PUSH

Kuala Lumpur, March 2, 2000 Malaysian Internet player Skali Group is poised to take on a bigger share of the booming Internet market at the regional and global levels through an aggressive marketing strategy it is implementing in fiscal year 2000.

Marking the start of the group's intense drive at becoming a leading Internet player in Asia, Skali recently completed its corporate rebranding exercise to pull several diverse service brands aligned under a common umbrella.

This rebranding sees the adoption of the Skali name on its e-information portal, called Skali.com and on the renaming of its managed services arm to that of Skali.net.

Explaining on the rationale behind this move at a media briefing, Tengku Farith Rithauddeen, president of Skali Group said," Skali is already a well-known brand and given the nature of our core competencies, it naturally makes good sense to build on this strength.

"So we have taken the step of merging our corporate and product identities under a single brand entity, which will go a long way in boosting brand awareness."

The Asia market, within which the group has carved a presence, is expected to expand Internet adoption beyond earlier projections.

"If we talk of the growth of electronic commerce in Asia, the numbers are staggering.  In 1999, global e-commerce raked in revenues just over   RM500 billion,  with a small percentage of that income coming from the Asia region. 

"If we slice up that figure, 80 per cent of those transactions were from one business to another,  indicating that the Internet  influence on business stretches far and wide.

"As for Malaysia, our expectations for e-commerce to pick up are very positive. In 1999, e-commerce revenue in Malaysia was in the region of RM200 million and this year it is expected to jump to RM500 million.  The number is expected to double in 2001and hitting the RM2 billion mark in 2002," said Farith.

He added that the Skali Group intends to tap this booming market by providing services far and beyond local shores.

"By 2001, we would have extended our services to countries such as Singapore and China, using Hong Kong as our entry route," says Farith.

On the race to dot-com businesses in Malaysia, he says Skali.Net, its managed services arm, is well placed to provide a full range of services to make it possible for both large and small corporations to quickly establish an Internet presence.

"It's a safe wager to say e-commerce will grow in Asia, although growth rates will vary depending on each country's economic circumstances and policies relating to this activity.

"But companies that fail to grasp how the Internet is profoundly affecting all manner of commerce and business are putting their future at risk,' he adds. 

He pointed out that the numbers of Internet subscribers in Malaysia is expected to reach 1 million by year-end, with more than half made up of corporate users.

Farith also observed that there is too  much emphasis on the technology aspects in Internet adoption by Malaysian corporations, to the point that many would rather avoid it altogether. "With the presence of specialist e-providers like Skali.net, Internet adoption by corporations is now a painless process.

"In electronic business, entreprenuership drives technology, not the other way around. 

"Simplified business process means total costs of ownership for companies intending or already having an Internet presence is substantially reduced through the concept of managed services.  Instead of having to purchase servers, hardwares, softwares , businesses have the option to share or rent these resources."

"The beauty is you can be in China for instance and you can still have speedy acccess to your data base here in Malaysia at a fraction of the cost of owning and maintaining your own server," explains Farith.  

While Skali.net is busy dot.com-ing Asian businesses, Skali.com, the group's e-info portal is already attracting more than two million visitors a month, with more than half made up of Internet users from outside Malaysia. 

Skali.com expects this figure to double to four million visitors per month by the end of this year.

"Skali.com specialises in aggregating content from Asia and this formula works well in an environment where  content has been predominantly Western -- specifically from the United States.

"Our site is unique because it gives Asians news from Asia at the tap of finger instead of having to go from site to site," he adds.

Skali.com is currently in talks with renowned content provider to beef up its high-traffic business platform. We want to encourage greater Intra Asian trade and we are doing this by providing more Asia-related business information and resources. The site's web-posting of Asian tenders, projects and corporate news release are favorites amongst the business community.