LightCross, UMC Fabricate New Class Of Photonics Components

HSINCHU, Taiwan, Oct. 5 -- LightCross Inc. and United Microelectronics Corp. said that they have successfully produced working arrayed waveguide gratings (AWGs) devices on UMC silicon. The companies said that this marks the first time that integrated optical devices have been produced at an integrated circuit foundry.

"I am very proud that we have been able to achieve this critical business and technical milestone," said Robert L. Barron, newly appointed chief executive officer and president of LightCross. "From a technology perspective, we are the first in our industry to demonstrate the ability to produce photonic components in a 'true' IC production environment. From a business perspective, we have taken a very important step in becoming the first fabless OIC (optical integrated circuit) company. With these accomplishments, we can free ourselves from the anchor of assets that has dragged down both public and startup companies in the traditional optical components industry. We are thrilled to partner with this global leader and look forward to building on our accomplishments to achieve our objective of becoming the premier fabless OIC company in the world."