IBM, Kymata to Develop Optical Chips for High-Speed Networks

EAST FISHKILL, N.Y., Nov. 8 -- IBM and Kymata Ltd. have signed a multiyear agreement to produce next-generation optical networking chips for high-speed e-business applications. IBM and Kymata will work together to make optical chips that will enable networking gear to send data and information over optical networks faster. Products will be designed using IBM's siliconoxynitride (SiON) process technology, which IBM will license to Kymata along with pump laser technology.
Sample products developed by the companies will be available by 2001. IBM has acquired a minority equity stake in Kymata Ltd. as a result of the agreement. Kymata designs and manufactures planar optoelectronic devices for dense wavelength division multiplexing telecommunications and data applications.