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Continuum Photonics Selects Applied MEMS (an Input/Output Company) to Develop Its DirectLight Photonic Switch Technology
Houston, TX - November 6, 2001 - Input/Output, Inc. (NYSE: IO), through its wholly-owned subsidiary Applied MEMS, Inc. (Applied MEMS) announced today that it has been selected by Continuum Photonics, Inc. to develop the core micro-electrical-mechanical (MEMS) components of Continuum's DirectLight line of optical switches. Applied MEMS offers world-class, high-volume, automated MEMS fabrication services and custom MEMS packaging services for a wide range of applications. Continuum's innovative and patent-pending DirectLight switching technology offers significant performance, reliability and cost advantages over competing products in optical networking applications.
Dr. Howard Goldberg, Business Development Manager for Applied MEMS said, "We are delighted to be working with Continuum Photonics, a leading-edge technology innovator and solutions provider." Dr. Goldberg continued, "We consider this a unique opportunity to help develop a breakthrough technology, while simultaneously furthering our strategy of becoming the foundry partner of choice for end users of MEMS."
"We were seeking a partner who could work with us through advanced development and proceed directly into production. Applied MEMS was the only one that consistently met all of the business and technology requirements to become our strategic partner," said Dr. Aaron Bent, President of Continuum. Dr. Bent also added, "It was evident that Applied MEMS' expertise in both the development and volume production of complex MEMS structures that require bulk micromachining, made them the obvious choice for developing our DirectLight photonic switch technology."
About MEMS
MEMS are highly miniaturized devices that integrate a number of functions including fluidics, optics, mechanics and electronics on a single silicon chip using techniques similar to traditional integrated circuit process technology. MEMS merges sensing, actuating and computing into miniature systems that enable enhanced levels of perception, control and performance. Example applications include optical switching devices developed for telecommunications; RF devices used in mobile hand held-devices; handheld DNA analysis products for biotechnology companies; advanced sensor technology, such as that used for airbag deployment for the automotive industry; and HDTV quality projection displays on a chip developed by component electronics companies.
About Applied MEMS
Applied MEMS, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Input/Output, Inc. (NYSE: IO), has operated a 35,000 sq. ft. MEMS manufacturing facility in Stafford, TX since 1997, that includes a world-class, high-volume, automated six-inch wafer fabrication facility; a custom packaging facility; and test/characterization capabilities that are dedicated to MEMS product development and production. Applied MEMS employs more than 25 MEMS professionals experienced in the design, fabrication, packaging and testing of MEMS products and systems. Over 22 patents have either been issued to Applied MEMS or are pending, covering key MEMS product designs and manufacturing process elements. Applied MEMS offers integrated foundry services for fabless MEMS product vendors; the Si-Flex product line, which represents the lowest-noise commercial MEMS accelerometer currently available; and the DuraScan micro-mirror technology for beam positioning, optical switching, and display applications. More information about Applied MEMS can be found at www.appliedmems.com or contact us at info@appliedmems.com.
About Input/Output, Inc.
Input/Output, Inc. is an industry leader in seismic acquisition imaging technology for land, marine, transition zone exploration, production and reservoir monitoring. The Company specializes in technology that creates value for the energy industry in the areas of 2D, 3D, 4D and multi-component seismic data. Input/Output incorporates MEMS technologies into its new VectorSeis product, a three-component sensor for oil and gas exploration. Additional information on Input/Output, Inc. is available at www.i-o.com, or contact us at ir@i-o.com.
About Continuum Photonics, Inc.
Headquartered within Boston's high-tech beltway, staffed by a talented team of experienced, innovative technologists and business executives and utilizing its expertise in smart materials and micro-control systems, Continuum is developing a suite of unique and value-added optical networking components and subsystems. These products will enhance the flexibility and reliability of optical networks by offering equipment manufacturers capabilities that are not otherwise available. With extensive product development experience in a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, industrial, and the military, Continuum's products have been proven under the most rigorous durability and reliability testing imaginable. Continuum continues to push the cutting edge to bring value to the optical networking market and its customers. For more information about Continuum, call (978) 670-4910, send email to info@continuumphotonics.com or visit our web site at www.continuumphotonics.com.
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