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Sumitomo Electric Device Innovations (SEDU), a leader in optical and RF solutions, has strengthened its optical device portfolio with the release of full-band Tunable Lasers covering both C-band and L-band transmission windows. Designed to meet the rigorous demands of high-capacity communication networks, these new products combine wide tunability, high output power, and efficient operation with industry-leading reliability.

Tunable Lasers for the C-band

The C-band, long recognized as the workhorse of global optical communication networks, is served by two new Sumitomo devices: the STY6BUC and the STY6CUC.

STY6BUC operates across the 191.30 to 196.10 THz tuning range with a fine 0.1 GHz grid spacing, offering precision control for dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) systems. With an optical output power of 16.5 dBm - and an optional version providing ≥17 dBm - it delivers strong performance while consuming only 3.0 W, making it highly attractive for power-sensitive network environments.

STY6CUC shares the same tuning range and spectral resolution but is optimized for higher output. It achieves 18.5 dBm optical power, with an optional configuration delivering ≥19 dBm, and consumes 3.6 W. This makes it suitable for long-haul transmission scenarios where higher launch power is critical.

Both devices feature a maximum linewidth of 300 kHz, ensuring clean, stable signals and minimizing phase noise - a key requirement for coherent optical communication systems.

Tunable Laser for the L-band

To complement the C-band offerings, Sumitomo has introduced the STY6DUC, covering the 186.10 to 190.95 THz tuning range in the L-band. This extension is critical as global data traffic continues to rise and network operators seek to maximize available optical spectrum.

Like the STY6CUC, the STY6DUC delivers 18.5 dBm output power (with an optional ≥19 dBm) and consumes 3.6 W, with the same 300 kHz linewidth specification. By opening up the L-band for tunable solutions, Sumitomo enables carriers to scale beyond the congested C-band, effectively doubling available transmission capacity in some network architectures.

Enabling Next-Generation Networks

The introduction of these full-band tunable lasers highlights Sumitomo’s strategy of addressing both immediate operational requirements and long-term scalability challenges in optical networks. Their fine grid spacing of 0.1 GHz provides compatibility with advanced channel planning and flexible-grid architectures, while their high output powers and low power consumption balance performance with efficiency.

Applications for these devices include:

• Long-haul transmission systems, where stable high output is essential.
• Metro and regional networks, which demand wavelength agility to adapt to dynamic traffic needs.
• Data center interconnects, where compact, power-efficient, and tunable solutions are critical to scaling bandwidth.

Commitment to Innovation and Safety

In addition to technological performance, Sumitomo underscores its responsibility to customers by maintaining clear regulatory disclosures. The company notes that some optical transceiver housings may contain nickel, listed by the State of California as a carcinogen, while certain semiconductor dies may use gallium arsenide or indium phosphide, both identified under California Proposition 65 as substances known to cause cancer. These statements reinforce Sumitomo’s commitment to transparency and compliance while delivering cutting-edge technologies.

With the release of the STY6BUC, STY6CUC, and STY6DUC, Sumitomo strengthens its position as a trusted supplier for industries that rely on precision, performance, and scalability. Sumitomo Electric Device Innovations USA continues to empower global communications infrastructure with innovations that drive connectivity forward.

Click here to learn more about Sumitomo's CW lasers.