STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Jan. 17 -- Ericsson has signed an agreement to sell its optoelectronics operation, Ericsson Optoelectronics, to Northlight Optronics AB. The deal is effective immediately. Ericsson Optoelectronics' 48 employees will be transferred to the new company. Ericsson said this sale is in line with its efforts to focus on its core business of providing systems and services for telecom operators. The purchase includes all activities, mainly development and certain manufacturing. Ericsson retains 9.9 percent ownership in the new operation. For more information, visit: www.ericsson.com/press