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Eblana Photonics Integrates Palomar Technologies' Laser Diode Attach Assembly Cell into its Volume Manufacturing Line

Vista, Calif. - March 23, 2003 - Palomar Technologies announces that Eblana Photonics, Dublin, Ireland, has purchased an LDA (Laser Diode Attach) automated assembly cell for use in Eblana's integrated volume manufacturing line for making lasers for broadband access. Eblana serves the high volume component demands of the Metro and Access market sectors. Their technology platform has properties that enable manufacturing efficiencies on a large scale. Palomar's LDA completely automates the assembly of laser diode components into the laser diode package with 5 micron accuracy for a controlled and repeatable process with high yield and reduced cost.

Palomar's LDA packages Indium Phosphide (InP) laser diode assemblies onto carriers and then attaches them inside an optoelectronic package. Critical to this assembly process is a void free eutectic solder interface that manages thermal and electrical connections needed to generate a stable transmission of laser light.

Eblana has a process for manufacturing laser diodes that exploits photonic bandgap approaches for laser components production. Typically, laser diodes are manufactured in a series of stages including repeated growth and etching phases (commonly called regrowth). Eblana's proprietary technologies remove regrowth from the process flow required to make high performance laser components and results in a manufacturing process for high performance lasers requiring processing of surface layers only. No re-growth is required. The key benefits of this regrowth-free nature of Eblana's manufacturing technology are more controlled, better, and more uniform and efficient manufacturing with enhanced device performance characteristics.

"Eblana Photonics has inherent advantages that allow the delivery of quality photonic components to high growth sectors of the fiber optics market," said Palomar's European product manager Dave Mudd. "By incorporating Palomar's LDA into their manufacturing line, Eblana is able to achieve a high yielding, cost effective device fabrication process."

"Eblana conducted a worldwide search for a company with a clear competitive advantage in, and understanding of, automation for volume microelectronics manufacturing," said Eblana founder and CEO James O'Gorman. "Our mandate is to manufacture superior laser diode components that provide high performance lasers for cost sensitive, high volume applications. Eblana Photonics has been delighted with the technology approval, values, and execution of its manufacturing equipment partner Palomar. It is clear to us why they define world class manufacturing in this area. We value the contribution they have made to our company."

About Palomar Technologies
Palomar Technologies, established in 1975 as part of Hughes Aircraft Company, has been an independent company since 1995. It is a leading supplier of automated high-precision assembly systems that increase yield and lower costs for manufacturers of optoelectronic, RF, and microelectronic packages in the photonic, wireless, microwave, automotive, aerospace, medical, and life sciences industries. Processes include high accuracy component assembly with eutectic solder or epoxy, precision ball bonding, and wedge bonding for fine pitch devices. Palomar's Process Development and Prototyping Services assists companies in developing or validating new products by providing design, engineering, prototyping, assembly, and automation expertise, as well as metrology resources to bridge the gap between product concept and automated production. Visit our web site at www.palomartechnologies.com or contact us at 760-931-3600.

last updated Friday, 21, April, 2006   |   copyright © 2005 Eblana Photonics Ltd.