POINTek Introduces Advanced LN Phase Modulators for Aerospace Applications

POINTek Unveils New Line of LN Phase Modulators and ASE Light Source Modules

Los Angeles and Seoul, Korea – March 26, 2025 – POINTek, Inc., recognized globally for its high-performance athermal AWG products, has announced the release of a new product line specifically designed for aerospace applications. This innovative collection features the Lithium Niobate (LN) Phase Modulator and ASE Light Source Module aimed at enhancing fiber optic gyroscope (FOG) technology.

The LN Phase Modulator and ASE Light Source Module serve as critical components for FOG Inertial Navigation Systems. Utilizing the Sagnac effect, these devices measure angular velocity effectively by harnessing fiber laser light generated by the ASE light source.

Once light is produced by the ASE module, it is transmitted to the 1x2 LN Phase Modulator. This device splits the light into two pathways, which travel through a closed-loop Polarization Maintaining (PM) fiber coil in opposite directions. Each split light beam maintains different polarizations. As they traverse the coil, they encounter path delays resulting in a phase shift that directly correlates to the angular velocity.

The initial shipment of these advanced components is already in progress to Hanwha Aerospace, a leading supplier in the aerospace sector. According to Dr. Donald Yu, Chief Marketing Officer of POINTek, this move signifies a broader commitment to establishing a dedicated aerospace business sector within their operations, following a significant long-term supply contract with Hanwha Aerospace over the past several years. "Our collaboration has spurred significant growth and development in our product line for fiber optic gyroscopes," he states.

Dr. Yu emphasizes the impeccable quality and timely delivery of POINTek’s LN phase modulators and ASE light source modules, both essential for high-performance navigation and motion sensing systems in aerospace. He elaborates, "Fiber optic gyroscopes play a pivotal role in navigation, guidance, and position stabilization within the aerospace industry, necessitating high standards for optical components. We take pride in upholding these industry standards, which has facilitated the launch of our new aerospace business unit."

Additionally, Dr. T.H. Rhee, the CEO of POINTek, notes the superior Polarization Extinction Ratio (PER) performance of their LN phase modulators, citing their extensive experience in developing high-performance athermal AWGs as fundamental to achieving such high quality. He explains, "A lower PER provides a significant advantage resulting in more accurate FOG measurements. Furthermore, our ASE light sources are designed to offer balanced power across three axes, enhancing the overall performance of the FOG system when paired with our modulators."

Beyond these components, POINTek is also proud to introduce new products aimed at monitoring structural stresses and strains on aerospace vehicles, especially under challenging environmental conditions. These innovations will enable effective oversight of mechanical changes across numerous measurement points, which can be critical for anticipating potential failures and ensuring safety in the field.

As POINTek continues to excel in high-performance optical components, these new modules place them at the forefront of the FOG and Inertial Navigation System markets. Attendees at the upcoming OFC2025 Exposition set for April 1-3, 2025, at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco, will have the chance to see these units on display at POINTek's booth (2759), showcasing new advancements in Data Center, Aerospace, and AI/Silicon photonics products.

Founded in 2000, POINTek, Inc. has firmly positioned itself as a leader in Planar Optical Waveguide Technology, providing quality optical components designed to serve the aerospace and AI photonics sectors. For more information on their innovative products, visit the official POINTek website at www.pointekinc.com.

Furthermore, Hanwha Aerospace, established in 1977, has emerged as a significant player within the aerospace industry in South Korea. This company not only focuses on aerospace markets but also extends its offerings to defense and marine sectors, emphasizing customer-centric quality management and technological advancements to remain competitive globally. More about their initiatives can be found on the Hanwha Aerospace website at www.hanwhaaerospace.com.