DURHAM, N.C., Nov. 6 -- Cree Inc. said it has achieved blue laser diode lifetimes in excess of 1,000 hours in the 400-nm range and has increased the laser's efficiency through improvements in threshold operating characteristics. The results are said to be a significant step toward substantiating the viability of optical storage capabilities for commercial applications of the device. Cree intends to begin customer sampling by the end of this calendar year.
Chuck Swoboda, Cree president and CEO, said, "This announcement signifies a new era in blue laser technology. We believe silicon carbide's natural cleave plane and structure will render our device to be the preferred choice among packagers and system suppliers. We are positioning the company with a view to capturing a significant share of this market."