Tuesday, January 31, 2012

ElectroniCast - Fiber Optic Industry Monthly Reports (January 2012)

ElectroniCast Consultants                                

Fiber Optic Industry Monthly Reports

The monthly report provides summaries from recent ElectroniCast market and technology analysis, as well as several industry news items of interest…


Published:       Last week of each month
Text Pages:     Typically 20-30 pages
Deliver:            PDF File via E-Mail
Fee:                $1,200 per year (12-issues)
Contact:          stephen_montgomery@electronicastconsultants.com 

Note: Only one PDF file will be sent to the individual client; however, clients may forward (e-mail) copies to other individuals within their own company/organization.


Typical Outline:

(1)   ElectroniCast – Fiber Optic Oriented Market and Technology Overview (5-8 pages)

(2)   ElectroniCast – Fiber Optic Oriented Market and Technology Overview (5-8 pages)

(3)   Fiber Optic Industry News (10-15 pages)

a.      Venture Capital or Financial News
b.      New Products
c.      Fiber Optic Deployment/Installations
d.      Technology News



About ElectroniCast

ElectroniCast Consultants specializes in forecasting trends in communication networks and in the products used in those networks.  This includes technology forecasting, markets and applications forecasting, strategic planning and consulting.

ElectroniCast Consultants, as a technology-based independent forecasting firm, serves industrial companies, trade associations, government agencies, communication and data network companies and the financial community.  Reduction of the risk of major investment decisions is the main benefit provided.  ElectroniCast's goal is to understand the challenges and opportunities facing clients and to provide timely, accurate information for strategic planning.


Table of Contents (January 2012)


ElectroniCast - Market and Technology Overviews                                                                                                                                                                         

Fiber Optic Network Technology Trends                                                         
PWC Module Market Forecast and Analysis                                                                                                                                                                                                 
Fiber Optic Industry News and Announcements                                                                                                                                                                                                    
                                                                                                                                                                        
Financial News: Corning                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      
Financial News: EXFO                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            
Company Strategy News: Luna Innovations                                                                                                                                                                                                            
Company Expansion News: NeoPhotonics                                                                                                                                                                                             
Company Expansion News: Techquity, L.P.                                                                                                                                                                                                                              
Company Expansion News: INCOM Inc.                                                                                                                                                                                                 
Technology Achievement News: NEC                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        
Product News: AFL                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          
Product News: Vytran                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               
Product News: Yenista Optics                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   
Product News: ADTRAN Inc.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  
Product News: Sumitomo Electric Networks                                                                                                                                                                                                                   
Product News: Avago Technologies                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                
Industry News: Standards                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      
Research Paper News: High-Sensitivity Fabry–Perot Sensor                                                                                                                          




ElectroniCast - Planar Waveguide Circuit Modules Global Market Forecast (2012)



According to ElectroniCast APAC will increase its lead in market share of Planar Waveguide Circuit Modules (2011-2016)

ElectroniCast Consultants, a leading market research & technology forecast consultancy addressing the fiber optics communications industry, today announced the release of a new market forecast and analysis of the worldwide use and technology trends of Planar Waveguide Circuit (PWC) Modules in optical communication networks

Planar technology allows a much tighter density of components given that all functions are can be performed on a single PWC chip. The end result is a much smaller device and smaller footprint for the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) solutions.

According to ElectroniCast Consultants, the global consumption value of planar waveguide circuit (PWC) modules will increase with strongly rising quantity growth partially offset by declining average prices.

The APAC region, with 45% in 2011, is forecast to increase at as faster pace versus the other two regions to maintain the lead in relative market share.  The America region is set to hold onto the 2nd-place position.  Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) will remain in a distant third place in relative market share (2011-2016). The consumption value of a particular module is determined by the region and final application (“end-use”) of the module.

According to the market research study results, the trend is for discrete-circuit (single-function) based PWC modules to be gradually displaced by equivalent performance (multiple-function) planar waveguide modules.  The combination of the packaging and integrated optics aspects of PWC technology provides for an attractive and powerful technology for modules, which will hold multiple (two or more) functions (integrated multifunction devices); thereby, reducing size, weight, and cost versus larger, bulkier discrete (single-function) modules. 

“PWC discrete (single function) modules are forecast for relatively slower growth versus the integrated multifunction module category,” said Stephen Montgomery, president – International Business at ElectroniCast.
# # #
This 404-page market forecast report is available immediately from ElectroniCast Consultants for the fee of $4,200. For detailed information on this or other services provided by ElectroniCast, please contact Theresa Hosking, Marketing/Sales; thosking@electronicastconsultants.com  
(Telephone/USA: 707/275-9397)

ElectroniCast Consultants – www.electronicast.com specializes in forecasting trends in technology forecasting, markets and applications forecasting, strategic planning and consulting. ElectroniCast Consultants, as a technology-based independent forecasting firm, serves industrial companies, trade associations, government agencies, communication and data network companies and the financial community.  Reduction of the risk of major investment decisions is the main benefit provided.  ElectroniCast Consultants’ goal is to understand the challenges and opportunities facing clients and to provide timely, accurate information for strategic planning.

Mini OTDR

Fremont, Calif., January 31, 2012 – VeEX Inc., a global leader in Telecom and CATV test solutions, today announced the introduction of the FX300 mini OTDR series, a product optimized for today’s optical fiber networks.

Featuring optical performance that rivals larger traditional and more expensive OTDRs, the unit offers impressive measurement capabilities to troubleshoot and verify optical fibers used in FTTx, metro ethernet, and next generation mobile backhaul applications. High resolution data sampling (cm), small dead zones (<1m) and high dynamic range (up to 37dB) ensure precise and comprehensive assessment of FTTx, exchange/central office, intra-building and long haul fiber deployments.

An AUTO mode simplifies operation by ensuring proper measurement parameter setup, while a high-contrast color LCD screen display clearly presents the OTDR trace and event table. Expert and novice users can quickly examine fiber characteristics and analyze any anomalies that exceed user defined thresholds, reducing fiber outage and system downtime. In addition, the unit is also equipped with a visible laser to visually troubleshoot bad splices and connectors.

Weighing only 900 g (<1.98 lb), the FX300 series is one of the smallest and lightest mini OTDRs on the market – its form factor is perfectly suited to address the portability and space constraints typical of overhead CATV cable routes, curbside FTTx cabinets and manholes. The ruggedized chassis incorporates a fan and vent free design that prevents dust and moisture ingress, thus it is perfectly suited for the challenging outside plant environment.

Friday, January 27, 2012

Honeywell Reports Full-Year Sales Up 13% To $36.5 Billion

  MORRIS TOWNSHIP, N.J., January 27, 2012 -- Honeywell (NYSE: HON) today announced fourth quarter and full-year 2011 results as follows:

• 4Q11 sales were up 8% to $9.5 billion versus $8.7 billion in 4Q10
      - 7% organic growth reflects continued strength in most end markets and the contribution of  
        new product launches and geographic expansion
• 4Q11 proforma earnings (excluding the impact of pension mark-to-market adjustments) of $1.05
  per share, up 21% over $0.87 in 4Q10; Reported 4Q11 earnings reflected a loss of ($0.40) per
  share versus earnings of $0.47 per share in the prior year
      - Pension mark-to-market adjustment of $1.45 per share calculated using 784.3 million
        weighted average shares outstanding assuming dilution
• 4Q11 cash flow from operations of $1.5 billion, includes $250 million cash pension contribution
  in the quarter
      - 4Q11 free cash flow (cash flow from operations less capital expenditures) of $1.4 billion,
         prior to $250 million cash pension contribution

The company reported full-year 2011 results including:
• 2011 sales of $36.5 billion, up approximately 13% over 2010
      - 8% organic sales growth, again reflecting strong end markets, successful new product
        launches, and continued expansion in high growth regions
• 2011 proforma earnings (excluding the impact of pension mark-to-market adjustments)  of $4.05
  per share, up 35% over $3.00 in 2010; Reported EPS of $2.61 in 2011 versus $2.59 in the prior
  year
      - Pension mark-to-market adjustment of $1.44 per share calculated using 791.6 million
        weighted average shares outstanding assuming dilution
• 2011 cash flow from operations of $2.8 billion, includes $1.7 billion cash pension contribution in
   the year
      - 2011 free cash flow of approximately $3.7 billion, prior to $1.7 billion cash pension
        contribution

“Honeywell had a terrific 2011,” said Honeywell Chairman and CEO Dave Cote. “We executed across the portfolio with record organic sales growth and segment margins. Our 2011 performance reflects the operational and financial disciplines that underpin the transformation that has taken place at the company over the last 10 years. We deployed the Honeywell 5 Initiatives – Growth, Productivity, Cash, People, and our Enablers, and created a common One Honeywell culture committed to continuous improvement. As a result, we built a better set of businesses with Great Positions in Good Industries, a terrific performance track record, a great leadership team with a truly global focus, a very full pipeline of new products and technologies, and our key process initiatives that are gaining momentum. We’ve come a long way, and we feel even better about our future.”

“While we expect a more challenging macro environment ahead in 2012, primarily driven by softness in Europe impacting the short-cycle businesses, we’re confident that Honeywell is well positioned to continue to outperform,” continued Cote.  “Our long-cycle businesses are accelerating, with Commercial Aerospace OE, UOP, Building Solutions & Distribution, and Process Solutions all having substantial backlog, in total just under $16 billion. While we expect growth to moderate in the first half of 2012, we’re confident that we can drive strong sales conversion leading to higher segment margins over the course of the year.  The investments we’ve made, coupled with our execution track record and disciplined playbook, will be key to our continued out performance in 2012 and beyond.”

Fourth Quarter Segment Highlights
Aerospace
• Sales were up 8% compared with the fourth quarter of 2010, primarily due to 20% growth in
  Commercial original equipment and aftermarket volumes, partially offset by lower military sales
  and government services.
• Segment profit was up 10% and segment margin increased 40 bps to 18.8%, primarily due to
  strong commercial aftermarket volume and productivity benefits net of inflation, partially offset
  by higher research and development costs, and the dilution associated with the EMS
  acquisition.
• Honeywell secured more than $100 million in safety product wins including contracts with
  Lufthansa Airlines to introduce Intuvue Radar and SmartLanding airport and runway awareness
  technology on its full fleet of A320 aircraft. Air China will introduce Honeywell’s Intuvue Radar
  on its B777-300ER in addition to Satellite Communication System, Traffic Collision Avoidance
  System, and Voice and Data recorders. Additionally, Emirates Airlines will forward fit and
  retrofit Honeywell Satellite Communication Systems on its fleet of 777, A380, and A340 aircraft.
• Honeywell was awarded more than $150 million in Global Aftermarket support contracts in the
  quarter.  These include a Maintenance Cost Agreement with Flydubai for the carrier’s auxiliary
  power units (APUs) installed on its fleet of Boeing 737-800 passenger aircraft, aftermarket
  support with Air France to provide multiple avionics components across several aircraft
  platforms, and wheels and brakes support with Ethiopian Airlines and Air China.
• Honeywell has delivered the latest version of its industry leading HTF7000 family of jet engines,
  the HTF7500E, to Embraer for flight testing on Embraer’s family of Legacy 450 and 500 series
  jets. The HTF7500E is Honeywell’s newest fuel efficient engine that encompasses SABER
  (Single Annular Combustor for Emissions Reduction) combustor technology reducing jet engine
  emissions by 25%.

Automation and Control Solutions • Sales were up 4%, compared with the fourth quarter of 2010, driven by organic growth across
  the portfolio.  The favorable impact of net acquisitions offset negative foreign currency
  translation in the quarter.  ACS continues to benefit from new product introductions, emerging
  region expansion, and favorable macro trends such as safety, security, and energy efficiency.
• Segment profit was up 14% and segment margins increased 130 bps to 14.4% driven by higher
  volumes, commercial excellence, and productivity benefits net of inflation, and the absence of
  prior year dilution from acquisitions.
• Process Solutions was awarded an $88.6 million contract by the city of Los Angeles to
  completely overhaul and modernize the technology controlling the city’s wastewater treatment
  system. The project will allow the city's Bureau of Sanitation to replace the current control
  systems, some of which have been in place for two decades and are outdated, with a city- and
  network-wide integrated system, simplifying operations and reducing environmental risks from
  the aging infrastructure.
• Life Safety acquired King’s Safetywear, a leading international provider of branded safety
  footwear and other personal protective equipment (PPE). Headquartered in Singapore, King’s
  will be integrated into the global Safety Products business and further broadens Honeywell’s
  head-to-toe PPE portfolio, offering a range of respected protective footwear brands to key
  markets including Southeast Asia, Australia, and other regions.  Life Safety also acquired Fire
  Sentry Corporation, a privately-held manufacturer of innovative fire detection and control
  products for a broad range of industrial markets. Fire Sentry’s product portfolio consists of fast-
  responding electro-optical flame detectors, portable test lamps, and dedicated control panels
  that are used by customers in industrial settings such as petrochemical, semiconductor, and
  other plants.
• Building Solutions announced a smart grid project that will help Scottish and Southern Energy
  Power Distribution connect up to 30 commercial and industrial buildings in the Thames Valley
  area west of London, which will help alleviate the potential for future transmission and
  distribution bottlenecks as the peak demand for energy grows. The project will help to create a
  more robust, agile grid without the public disruption or expense of major infrastructure
  upgrades. Honeywell will install automated demand response (Auto DR) technology in the
  selected facilities.

Performance Materials and Technologies• Sales were up 24% compared with the fourth quarter of 2010, resulting from strong UOP
  project and catalyst sales, the phenol plant acquisition, and favorable pricing and new product
  applications in Advanced Materials.
• Segment profit was up 30% and segment margins increased 80 bps to 15.6% due to higher
  project sales and catalyst growth, favorable price over raws spreads, and continued
  productivity benefits, partially offset by inflation and the unfavorable margin impact from the
  phenol plant acquisition.
• UOP announced that its adsorbent ion exchange products are successfully being used by
  Toshiba Corp. and Shaw Global Services for the cleanup of radiation-contaminated water at the
  Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan. The Simplified Active Water Retrieve and
  Recovery System (SARRY) is utilizing UOP IONSIV™ Ion Exchangers to remove and reduce
  radioactive materials in the contaminated wastewater caused by the earthquake and tsunami in
  Japan in 2011.
• Resins and Chemicals signed an agreement with the J.R. Simplot Company, one of the world’s
  largest privately-held food and agribusiness companies, to build a facility that will produce
  Honeywell’s Sulf-N® 26, a highly-effective fertilizer with all the agronomic benefits of
  traditional nitrate-based fertilizers but with significantly lower explosive potential.
• UOP announced that its Uniflex™ process technology, designed to help refiners get more high-
  value product from each barrel of crude oil, has been selected by National Refinery Limited to
  maximize diesel and lubricant production in Pakistan. Uniflex™ technology was developed to
  help refiners processing the bottom of the barrel (the heaviest portions of a barrel of crude also
  known as vacuum residue) into higher-value transportation fuels. This technology can deliver
  90% conversion of vacuum residue to transportation fuels.

Transportation Systems• Sales were up 10% compared with the fourth quarter of 2010, due to higher light vehicle turbo
  volumes overall, new launches,  and higher diesel penetration, partially offset by the
  unfavorable impact of foreign exchange.
• Segment profit was up 14% and segment margins increased 40 bps to 12.4%, primarily driven
  by higher volumes and increased productivity benefits, partially offset by inflation.
• Honeywell Turbo Technologies launched approximately 25 new turbo applications in the fourth
  quarter on gasoline and diesel powertrains for both passenger and commercial vehicle
  applications around the world bringing the 2011 total to nearly 100 applications and reflecting a
  record number of deliveries in 2011 surpassing the previous record set in pre-recession 2007.
• As global manufacturers continue to turn to engine downsizing and turbocharging to meet
  increasing regulatory requirements and satisfy customers, Honeywell Turbo Technologies was
  awarded more than $500 million in new platform wins in Q4 bringing its year-to-date total to
  nearly $2.8 billion in revenue realized throughout the life of the future programs won. The wins
  in Q4 reflect new business from global customers including Audi, Nissan, Fiat, Chrysler, and
  Caterpillar.

Honeywell will discuss its results during its investor conference call today starting at 9:30 a.m. EST.  To participate, please dial (631) 291-4830 a few minutes before the 9:30 a.m. EST start.  Please mention to the operator that you are dialing in for Honeywell’s investor conference call.  The live webcast of the investor call will be available through the “Investor Relations” section of the company’s Website (http://www.honeywell.com/investor).  Investors can access a replay of the conference call from 12:30 p.m. EST, January 27, until midnight, February 3, by dialing (404) 537-3406.  The access code is 34690390.

Honeywell (www.honeywell.com) is a Fortune 100 diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes, and industry; automotive products; turbochargers; and performance materials. Based in Morris Township, N.J., Honeywell’s shares are traded on the New York, London, and Chicago Stock Exchanges.  For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywellnow.com.

This release contains certain statements that may be deemed “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that we or our management intends, expects, projects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Such statements are based upon certain assumptions and assessments made by our management in light of their experience and their perception of historical trends, current economic and industry conditions, expected future developments and other factors they believe to be appropriate. The forward-looking statements included in this release are also subject to a number of material risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to economic, competitive, governmental, and technological factors affecting our operations, markets, products, services and prices. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results, developments and business decisions may differ from those envisaged by such forward-looking statements.

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Corning Announces Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year Results

In the company’s Telecommunications segment, Corning is forecasting that demand for its fiber-to-the-home, enterprise networks, and wireless products will remain strong worldwide.

Company has record annual sales of $7.9 billion 

CORNING, N.Y., January 25, 2012 – Corning Incorporated (NYSE: GLW) today announced its results for the fourth quarter and year-end of 2011.
Fourth-Quarter Highlights
  • Sales were $1.9 billion, a decline of 9% sequentially, but a 7% increase year over year. 
  • Earnings per share were $0.31. Excluding special items, earnings per share were $0.33*, a decline from third-quarter EPS of $0.48 and $0.46 a year ago.
  • Display Technologies’ wholly owned business glass volume was in line with the company’s expectations. Samsung Corning Precision Materials Co., Ltd.’s volume was higher than the company’s revised guidance last November. 
  • Telecommunications segment sales declined 13% sequentially as expected, while improving by 11% year over year.
Full-Year Highlights
  • Sales were $7.9 billion, a 19% increase over $6.6 billion last year. This represents a record high annual sales performance for the company. 
  • Each of Corning’s major business segments recorded annual sales gains, led by Specialty Materials nearly doubling in sales to $1.1 billion, and Telecommunications improving to $2.1 billion compared to $1.7 billion last year. 
  • Earnings per share were $1.77, a 21% decline from last year. Excluding special items, earnings per share were $1.76*, a 15% decline from last year.
  • Free cash flow for the year was $544 million*.
*These are non-GAAP financial measures.  The reconciliation between GAAP and non-GAAP measures is provided in the tables following this news release, as well as on the company’s investor relations website.
Quarter Four Financial Comparisons
Q4 2011
Q3 2011
% Change
Q4 2010
% Change
Net Sales in millions
$1,887
$2,075
(9%)
$1,765
7%
Net Income in millions
$491
$811
(39%)
$1,044
(53%)
Non-GAAP Net Income in millions* $513 $766 (33%) $733 (30%)
GAAP EPS
$0.31
$0.51
(39%)
$0.66
(53%)
Non-GAAP EPS*
$0.33
$0.48
(31%)
$0.46
(28%)

Full-Year Financial Comparisons
2011
2010
% Change
Net Sales in millions
$7,890
$6,632
19%
Net Income in millions
$2,805
$3,558
(21%)
Non-GAAP Net Income in millions* $2,789 $3,276 (15%)
GAAP EPS
$1.77
$2.25
(21%)
Non-GAAP EPS*
$1.76
$2.07
(15%)
*These are non-GAAP financial measures.  The reconciliation between GAAP and non-GAAP measures is provided in the tables following this news release, as well as on the company’s investor relations website.
 
“This past year was a very successful one for Corning,” Wendell P. Weeks, chairman, chief executive officer, and president, said. “We had the strongest annual sales performance in our 161-year history. We set new records for gross margin and operating income* (before special items). The company generated positive free cash flow* for the eighth consecutive year. We have a healthy balance sheet, and we raised our shareholder dividend and initiated a share repurchase program.

“Four of our business segments - Telecommunications, Environmental Technologies, Life Sciences, and Specialty Materials - had excellent performance in 2011. The aggregate sales and net income* (before special items) of these segments grew 31% and 136% respectively.  Sales of Corning® Gorilla® Glass almost tripled. Our innovation investments paid off with the introduction of Corning Lotus™ Glass for OLED displays and a new, improved cover glass, Corning® Gorilla® Glass 2. Our outstanding performance came despite the less-than-robust growth in economies around the world.”

Weeks pointed out that 2011 was not without its challenges. “In the fourth quarter, we experienced significant LCD glass price declines due to a confluence of factors in the display market. And our equity venture, Dow Corning Corporation, experienced major upheaval in the solar panel industry with lower demand and pricing of polysilicon materials. These price declines will reset the profitability of both Display Technologies and Dow Corning to lower levels.”

He added, “It is important to remember the strengths of these businesses. Dow Corning has the lowest cost and leading market position in the polysilicon industry. Corning’s LCD business, which remains very profitable, has the lowest cost and the leading market position in the industry. It should continue to generate significant cash in the future.”

Fourth-Quarter Segments ResultsSales in the Display Technologies segment were $780 million, a decline of 4% sequentially, but a 4% increase compared to a year ago. Glass price declines at both the wholly owned business and SCP were significant.

Telecommunications segment sales were $490 million, a decline of 13% sequentially and in line with the company’s expectations. On a year-over-year basis, sales increased 11%.
Environmental Technologies segment sales were $234 million, a 5% quarter-over-quarter decline and basically even with last year’s fourth-quarter results.

Specialty Materials segment sales were $238 million, a 20% sequential decline and in line with Corning’s expectations. Compared to last year, sales increased 21%.

Life Sciences segment sales were $143 million, a 7% sequential decline and a 2% year-over-year gain.

Corning’s equity earnings were $321 million and included a one-time gain of $89 million.
Corning ended the year with more than $5.8 billion in cash and short-term investments. Capital spending for the year was $2.4 billion, in line with the company’s expectations.

Looking Forward“The display industry is in a period of transition and we are in the process of resetting expectations for its future growth and profitability,” James B. Flaws, vice chairman and chief financial officer, remarked. “We are working closely with our customers to reduce glass prices to help them with their immediate financial strains. To that end, price declines will be significant in the first quarter of 2012, as they were in last year’s fourth quarter. We expect significant double-digit price declines over the cumulative two-quarter period. We are hopeful that our pricing actions, combined with our capacity decisions, will help us get back to more stable price declines in the coming quarters.

“We believe the actions we have taken to reduce capacity have brought LCD glass supply closer to end market demand. If we correctly estimated retail demand and supply chain dynamics, then we believe worldwide glass supply will become balanced with glass demand at some point during the year. We will be cautious on pace and timing of bringing capacity back on line,” Flaws said.

Corning is not anticipating much sequential change in the overall glass market in the first quarter. Volume at its wholly owned business should be in line with the glass market. At SCP, volume is expected to be flat to down in the double digits, depending upon the outcome of negotiations with a key customer.

The company expects the retail market for LCD products to grow from about 3.2 billion square feet to 3.6 billion square feet in 2012. “This represents the amount of glass contained in LCD-based products sold to consumers, not the amount of glass shipped from glass makers to panel makers. The amount of glass shipped will be dependent upon panel maker utilization rates and supply chain dynamics,” he explained.

In the company’s Telecommunications segment, Corning is forecasting that demand for its fiber-to-the-home, enterprise networks, and wireless products will remain strong worldwide. “For the full year, we expect our telecom sales to be up significantly,” Flaws said. In the first quarter, sales are expected to increase between 5% and 10% sequentially and year over year.

Environmental Technologies segment sales are expected to grow in 2012, driven primarily by the global demand for the company’s diesel emissions products. In the first quarter of this year, sales are expected to increase slightly.

Specialty Materials segment sales will be led by Corning Gorilla Glass. The company anticipates significant growth at retail for devices with cover glass, driven primarily by tablet computers and handheld IT devices. Flaws said, “We do expect further yield improvements at our customers, as well as some price declines, this year. These will impact our sales growth.”  In the first quarter, segment sales are anticipated to be up slightly.
In the Life Sciences segment, Corning expects another strong year of sales, through a combination of organic growth and acquisitions. For the first quarter, sales are expected to increase 10% sequentially, driven primarily by the acquisition of Mediatech, Inc., which occurred late in fourth quarter of 2011.

Equity earnings in the first quarter are expected to decline in the range of 5% to 20%, excluding special items, due to lower earnings at both Dow Corning and Samsung Corning Precision Materials.

Corning’s tax rate is likely to increase to 20% in the first quarter and the full year, as expected.
Flaws remarked, “We believe Corning is approaching a new floor in terms of profitability due to transitions in our LCD business and Dow Corning’s polysilicon business. Moving forward, our plan is to grow profits from this new level.”

“To that extent,” Flaws said, “we anticipate strong sales and profit growth over the next several years in our Telecommunications, Environmental Technologies, Specialty Materials, and Life Sciences segments.” Sales in the company’s Display Technologies segment are not expected to grow, but the segment is expected to produce significant profits and cash going forward.

“Overall, we anticipate generating strong free cash flow* over the next several years. We plan to use the cash for acquisitions to supplement growth, dividend payments, and our share repurchase program.

“At Corning, we are not threatened by business transitions. We have faced many in the past and weathered them successfully. We believe our business portfolio is strong, we have a leading competitive position in each market, and our innovation investments will generate future growth,” Flaws said.

The company will provide additional details on its first-quarter and full-year outlook at its annual investor meeting in New York on Feb. 3.

Upcoming EventsCorning will host investors and provide more information on its 2012 outlook at its annual investor meeting in New York on Friday, Feb. 3 beginning at 8 a.m. ET at Cipriani on 42nd Street. Corning will showcase products and technologies prior to and following the formal meeting at 9 a.m. ET. The company’s exhibits, including hands-on Gorilla Glass product demonstrations, will be available for viewing and senior management will also be available during the exhibit periods to answer individual investor questions. Attendees can register online at the company’s investor relations website.
Corning will also be presenting at the Goldman Sachs Technology and Internet Conference Feb. 14 and the Morgan Stanley Media and Telecom Conference Feb. 28, both in San Francisco.

Fourth-Quarter Conference Call InformationThe company will host a fourth-quarter conference call on Wednesday, Jan. 25 at 8:30 a.m. ET. To participate, please call toll free (800) 288-8961 or for international access call (612) 288-0340 approximately 10-15 minutes prior to the start of the call. The password is ‘QUARTER FOUR’. The host is ‘SOFIO’. To listen to a live audio webcast of the call, go to Corning’s website at www.corning.com/investor_relations and click Investor Events on the left. A replay will be available beginning at 10:30 a.m. ET and will run through 5:00 p.m. ET, Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2012. To listen, dial (800) 475-6701 or for international access dial (320) 365-3844. The access code is 233477. The webcast will be archived for one year following the call.

Presentation of Information in this News ReleaseNon-GAAP financial measures are not in accordance with, or an alternative to, GAAP. Corning’s non-GAAP net income and EPS measures exclude restructuring, impairment and other charges and adjustments to prior estimates for such charges. Additionally, the company’s non-GAAP measures exclude adjustments to asbestos settlement reserves, gains and losses arising from debt retirements, charges or credits arising from adjustments to the valuation allowance against deferred tax assets, equity method charges resulting from impairments of equity method investments or restructuring, impairment or other charges taken by equity method companies and gains from discontinued operations. The company believes presenting non-GAAP net income and EPS measures is helpful to analyze financial performance without the impact of unusual items that may obscure trends in the company’s underlying performance. Reconciliation of these non-GAAP measures can be found on the company’s website by going to www.corning.com/investor_relations and clicking Financial Reports on the left. Reconciliation also accompanies this news release.

Forward-Looking and Cautionary StatementsThis press release contains “forward-looking statements” (within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995), which are based on current expectations and assumptions about Corning’s financial results and business operations, that involve substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include: the effect of global political, economic and business conditions; conditions in the financial and credit markets; currency fluctuations; tax rates; product demand and industry capacity; competition; reliance on a concentrated customer base; manufacturing efficiencies; cost reductions; availability of critical components and materials; new product commercialization; pricing fluctuations and changes in the mix of sales between premium and non-premium products; new plant start-up or restructuring costs; possible disruption in commercial activities due to terrorist activity, armed conflict, political or financial instability, natural disasters, adverse weather conditions, or major health concerns; adequacy of insurance; equity company activities; acquisition and divestiture activities; the level of excess or obsolete inventory; the rate of technology change; the ability to enforce patents; product and components performance issues; retention of key personnel; stock price fluctuations; and adverse litigation or regulatory developments. These and other risk factors are detailed in Corning’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the day that they are made, and Corning undertakes no obligation to update them in light of new information or future events.

About Corning IncorporatedCorning Incorporated (www.corning.com) is the world leader in specialty glass and ceramics. Drawing on more than 160 years of materials science and process engineering knowledge, Corning creates and makes keystone components that enable high-technology systems for consumer electronics, mobile emissions control, telecommunications and life sciences. Their products include glass substrates for LCD televisions, computer monitors and laptops; ceramic substrates and filters for mobile emission control systems; optical fiber, cable, hardware & equipment for telecommunications networks; optical biosensors for drug discovery; and other advanced optics and specialty glass solutions for a number of industries including semiconductor, aerospace, defense, astronomy, and metrology.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

New Report by ElectroniCast: Free Space Optics (FSO) Market Forecast (2012)

ElectroniCast Executive White Paper

 Free Space Optics
Global Market Forecast and Analysis

2011-2017

 Market Analysis of Free Space Optics (FSO) Links Used in Non-Military/Aerospace Applications


Fee: $1,200

Released: January 26, 2012

Order by Contacting me at: stephen_montgomery@electronicastconsultants.com



The global consumption value of FSO Transmitter/Receiver Link Devices used in stationary non-military/ aerospace applications was $26.47 million in year 2011.  EMEA held a slight lead in terms of relative market share in 2011; however, the American region is forecast to grab the lead next year (2013) until the APAC region moves up. 

The increase in the consumption of FSO links in the America region will be attributed to not only continued upgrades and network facilitation in the United States and Canada, but partly from the accelerating economic growth of major cities in Latin America.  Other market dynamics in the American region are increases in communication links needed for growing infrastructures, such as mass transit, security systems, broadcast and telecommunications.

            European inner-city urban areas typically are difficult for wire-lines, including optical fiber cable installations; therefore, this fact promotes FSO or other wireless solutions.  The APAC region has advanced communication technology deployed especially in Japan; however, other countries, such as Australia, China and India, are not as advanced in campus-wide and metropolitan optical communication deployment.  The APAC region has rapidly expanding market opportunities and therefore, our forecast shows the region with the fastest growth (2011-2017). 

Fiber Optic Fusion Splicer: Distribution, Sales and Service in the United States


Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB)
Inno Instrument is proud to announced the selection of efibertools.com to handle distribution and service for its fiber optic fusion splicer products in the USA. EFiberTools distribute, sell and service the Inno IFS-10 fusion splicer and VF-78 high precision cleaver products.


In September Inno visited eFiberTools’ facility in Phoenix, AZ and on the spot appointed eFiberTools with the contract. Inno is excited to work with eFiberTools.com and Daniel Parsons who has been a figure in the fiber optic equipment, and especially fusion splicers for over 11 years.

The IFS-10 is Inno’s second generation fusion splicer. The IFS-10 fiber splicing kit includes the Inno VF-78 high precision cleaver. The first splicer manufactured by Inno was the IFS-9 which sold well but was not formally introduced in the US market. It was decided to put US distribution on hold until the IFS-10 was perfected and the company felt confident it could meet the expectations of the demanding US customer. Customer feedback so far has been extremely positive. The IFS-10 and VF-78 are expected to capture a substantial portion of total US sales for single-fiber fusion splicing applications.

At a price of only $9990/kit, the Inno is set to take over a substantial portion of the US single-fiber market for core-alignment fusion splicers currently dominated by the Fujikura FSM-60s at a price of 60% more than the Inno introduction price. The Inno fiber splicer kit includes the IFS-10 splicer, VF-78 cleaver, heavy-duty travel case, longest-lasting lithium battery and charger, cables and manual.

The Inno is the first sub-$10k fusion splicer to hit the USA market proven to be as good or better than the brands coming from Japan, Fujikura, Fitel and Sumitomo. Rugged and reliable, the Inno IFS-10 and VF-78 splicing kit is the best fusion splicer on the market today; especially considering it’s only a fraction the price of the Japanese models. 

Inno is manufactured in South Korea where the IFS-10 is already the No. 1. Korea has the second best-constructed FTTH network in the world and the toughest market. In less than three years the Inno’s IFS-series fiber splicers have not only outsold the then best-selling Fujikura FSM-60s, but has decimated Fujikura’s market share. The same is expected here in the USA.

In 2009, only three years ago the Fujikura FSM-60s fusion splicer had 60% of the market. Now, in 2011 the Inno IFS-series owns 70% of the market relegating Fujikura down to only 10% of the South Korean telecom and broadband market.

About Inno instrument

Founded in 2007, Inno started development of its IFS-series fusion splicers three years earlier. Inno is located in Sungnam City, Republic of Korea, and is committed to the fiber optic contractor and installer, fiber to the home (FTTH) facilitator, fiber optic device manufacturer, and government and education systems installation.

In early 2012 Inno Instrument plans to open its first service center in north-eastern US. All fusion splicers and cleavers will be serviced in their new location, as well as in Phoenix.
###
Nick Kim
Inno Instrument
(623) 582-5560
Email Information

MRV Announces Leadership Changes

Appointment of New Chairman and Vice Chairman and Transition ofInterim CEO and VP, Finance

CHATSWORTH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 23, 2012--MRV Communications, Inc.(OTCQB: MRVC) ("MRV" or the "Company") announced that theCompany’s Board of Directors has appointed Kenneth Traubas Chairman and Robert Ponsas Vice Chairman. S

Separately, the Company entered into Separation and Transition Agreements with each of Chris King, MRV’sinterim CEO and CFO, and Blima Tuller, MRV’s VP, Finance. Under the agreements, Mr. King and Ms. Tuller will remain as executives of the Company through the later of March 30, 2012 or the filing of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,2011with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Mr. King and Ms.Tuller will also work with the Company’s Board of Directors and management team in transitioning their responsibilities during this period.

Mr. Traub commented, “I am honored to be appointed Chairman of the Board of MRV. We will focus on a clear strategic plan to maximize the return of capital to our stockholders. We will support the talented and valued employees throughout our organization to enhance the operations and value of our optical equipment and network integration businesses worldwide. I look forward to working closely with Chris during this transition period, and collaborating with the rest of our team to execute our strategic plan and maximize value.” Traub continued, “We all greatly appreciate Chris and Blima’s contributions to MRV as well as their ongoing commitment. I would also like to thank Philippe Tartavull,Joan Herman,Michael Keane and Michael McConnell for their contributions to our Board and wish them well in their future endeavors.”

Mr. Pons also commented, “MRV has faced various challenges in the past.We have taken decisive and constructive steps to strengthen the Company and enhance value for stockholders. I am confident that we are now better positioned to execute our strategy and return capital to stockholders.”

Mr. King added, “I look forward to working closely with the MRV Board,corporate staff and business managers worldwide over the next severalweeks to continue successfully executing our strategic plan and ensure aseamless transition.”

About MRV Communications, Inc.
MRV Communications, Inc.is a leading global provider of carrier Ethernet, wavelength division multiplexing optical transport,infrastructure management equipment and solutions, as well as network integration and managed services. MRV's solutions enable the delivery and provisioning of next-generation optical transport and carrier Ethernet services over any fiber infrastructure. MRV provides equipment and services worldwide to telecommunications service providers,enterprises, and governments, enabling network evolution and increasing efficiency, while reducing complexity and costs. Through its subsidiaries, MRV operates research and development centers in North America and Europe, along with support centers and sales offices around the world. For more information about MRV, visit http://www.mrv.com

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Verizon Reports Record Revenue Growth

  • 201,000 FiOS Internet and 194,000 FiOS Video net additions, with increased sales penetration for both products; net increase of 98,000 broadband connections from 3Q 2011.
  • 8.5 percent year-over-year increase in consumer ARPU; FiOS ARPU was more than $148 per month.
NEW YORK - Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) posted the highest year-over-year quarterly revenue growth in the company's 11-year history in fourth-quarter 2011, fueled by continued strong demand for Verizon Wireless services and handsets, FiOS fiber-optic services, and strategic business products and services.
'Great Momentum for 2012'
"Verizon finished 2011 very strong, both in terms of revenue growth and by delivering an 18.2 percent total return to our shareholders for the full year, and the company has great momentum for 2012," said Lowell McAdam, Verizon chairman, president and chief executive officer.  "Verizon Wireless produced particularly strong growth in the fourth quarter.  While that diluted wireless margins in the short term, it is good news for revenue and margin growth over the long term, particularly given our leadership in the rapidly developing 4G LTE ecosystem."

McAdam added: "Wireline margins recovered from third-quarter pressures, and we expect wireline margin expansion in 2012.  With recent strategic moves and our investments in FiOS, LTE, and global IP and cloud-based strategic services, Verizon has set the stage for accelerated growth across our business units, and we look to continue to build significant value for shareholders in 2012."

Verizon's total shareholder return is a combination of stock-price appreciation and dividend payments.  Regarding recent strategic moves, Verizon last month strengthened its ability to provide fully integrated solutions by creating Verizon Enterprise Solutions, a sales and marketing organization, to harness all of Verizon's solutions for business and government customers globally.  In addition, Verizon Wireless announced agreements to purchase AWS (Advanced Wireless Spectrum) licenses, an important step toward meeting customers' needs for wireless data and broadband services.

4Q and Full-Year Earnings Results
Due primarily to the impact of previously announced non-cash pension items, Verizon reported a loss of 71 cents in EPS in fourth-quarter 2011, compared with earnings of 93 cents per share in fourth-quarter 2010.
Adjusted fourth-quarter 2011 earnings (non-GAAP) of 52 cents per share exclude $1.20 per share, or $3.4 billion after-tax, due to the actuarial valuation of Verizon's benefit plans, and 3 cents per share for the early extinguishment of debt.  This annual valuation adjustment, resulting from changes in actuarial assumptions, is in accordance with a Verizon accounting policy adopted last year.  Comparable adjusted fourth-quarter 2010 earnings were 54 cents per share, excluding the impact of non-operational items, the largest of which was a gain from benefit-plan valuation of 44 cents per share.

On an annual basis, Verizon reported 85 cents in 2011 EPS, compared with 90 cents per share in 2010.  Adjusted annual EPS (non-GAAP) was $2.15 in 2011, compared with $2.08 on a comparable basis (non-GAAP, excluding results from divested businesses) in 2010.

Consolidated Revenue Growth, Strong Cash Flows
In fourth-quarter 2011, Verizon's total operating revenues were $28.4 billion on a consolidated basis, an increase of 7.7 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2010.  For full-year 2011, revenues totaled $110.9 billion, a 4.0 percent increase compared with 2010, when results included revenues from operations that have since been divested.  On a comparable basis (non-GAAP), Verizon's 2011 full-year revenues increased 6.2 percent compared with 2010.

Consolidated EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) totaled $29.4 billion in 2011.  On an adjusted basis (non-GAAP), EBITDA increased by more than $950 million in 2011 compared with 2010.
Cash flow from operating activities totaled $29.8 billion in 2011, and capital expenditures totaled $16.2 billion.  Free cash flow (non-GAAP, cash flow from operations less capex) was more than $13.5 billion in 2011.  From this total, Verizon returned $5.6 billion in quarterly dividends to shareholders in 2011, as the company's Board of Directors approved a fifth consecutive year of dividend increases.

Verizon Wireless Delivers Strong Customer and Revenue Growth
In fourth-quarter 2011, Verizon Wireless delivered the highest number of retail net additions in three years and strong growth in revenues, driven by increased smartphone penetration and increased retail postpaid ARPU (average monthly service revenue per user).
Wireless Financial Highlights
  • Total revenues were $18.3 billion in fourth-quarter 2011, up 13.0 percent year over year.  Data revenues were $6.3 billion, up more than $1.0 billion or 19.2 percent year over year, and represented 41.6 percent of all service revenues.  Service revenues were $15.1 billion, up 6.4 percent year over year.  For full-year 2011, total revenues were $70.2 billion, up 10.6 percent over full-year 2010, and service revenues were $59.2 billion in 2011, up 6.3 percent year over year.
  • Retail service ARPU grew 2.6 percent over fourth-quarter 2010, to $53.14.  Retail postpaid ARPU grew 2.5 percent, to $54.80.  Retail postpaid data ARPU increased to $22.76, up 14.3 percent year over year.
  • In fourth-quarter 2011, wireless operating income margin was 23.7 percent, and wireless generated $6.4 billion of EBITDA.  Segment EBITDA margin on service revenues (non-GAAP) was 42.2 percent, down 530 basis points from fourth-quarter 2010.  For full-year 2011, operating income margin was 26.4 percent, down 310 basis points from full-year 2010; Segment EBITDA margin was 44.8 percent, down 210 basis points.

FiOS, Strategic Services Contribute to Revenue Growth
In fourth-quarter 2011, revenues and customers continued to increase for FiOS services, and sales of strategic services to business customers remained strong.  Segment EBITDA margins (non-GAAP) also increased both sequentially and year over year.
Wireline Financial Highlights
  • Fourth-quarter 2011 operating revenues were $10.1 billion, a decline of 1.5 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2010.  Consumer revenues grew 1.3 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2010.
  • In fourth-quarter 2011, wireline operating income was $300 million, up 18.6 percent from fourth-quarter 2010.  Segment EBITDA (non-GAAP) was $2.4 billion in fourth-quarter 2011, flat compared with fourth-quarter 2010 and an increase of $243 million from third-quarter 2011, when the Segment EBITDA was impacted by storm-related repair costs and a two-week strike.  Operating income margin was 3.0 percent in fourth-quarter 2011.  Segment EBITDA margin (non-GAAP) was 23.8 percent, compared with 23.5 percent in fourth-quarter 2010 and 21.4 percent in third-quarter 2011.
  • Consumer ARPU for wireline services was $96.43 in fourth-quarter 2011, up 8.5 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2010.  ARPU for FiOS customers totaled more than $148 in fourth-quarter 2011, rising approximately $2 year over year.  FiOS services to consumer retail customers represented 61 percent of consumer wireline revenues in fourth-quarter 2011.
  • Global enterprise revenues totaled $3.9 billion in the quarter, up 1.3 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2010.  Sales of strategic services - including Terremark cloud services, security and IT solutions, and strategic networking - increased 14.7 percent compared with fourth-quarter 2010 and represented 51 percent of global enterprise revenues in fourth-quarter 2011.
Wireline Operational Highlights
  • Verizon added 201,000 net new FiOS Internet connections and 194,000 net new FiOS Video connections in fourth-quarter 2011.  Verizon had a total of 4.8 million FiOS Internet and 4.2 million FiOS Video connections at year-end.
  • FiOS penetration (subscribers as a percentage of potential subscribers) continued to increase.  FiOS Internet penetration was 35.5 percent at year-end 2011, compared with 31.9 percent at year-end 2010.  In the same periods, FiOS Video penetration was 31.5 percent, compared with 28.0 percent, respectively.  The FiOS network passed 16.5 million premises at year-end 2011, up more than 900,000 from year-end 2010.
  • Broadband connections totaled 8.7 million at year-end 2011, a 3.3 percent year-over-year increase.  FiOS Internet connections more than offset a decrease in DSL-based HSI connections, resulting in a net increase of 98,000 broadband connections from third-quarter 2011.  Total voice connections, which measures FiOS Digital Voice connections in addition to traditional switched access lines, declined 7.2 percent to 24.1 million - the smallest year-over-year decline since first-quarter 2006.
  • Verizon continued to enhance its global portfolio of secure IT and advanced communications platforms and industry-focused solutions.  In fourth-quarter 2011, this included an expansion of the company's Voice-over-IP service within the Asia-Pacific region and the rollout of an automated healthcare fraud-detection platform for private health insurers and government agencies.
  • Multinational corporations, leading businesses and government agencies - including Accenture plc; Chrysler Group LLC; the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania; GXS Inc.; MagnaCare Holdings Inc.; Tyson Foods Inc.; Consolidated Edison Company of New York Inc.; and Orange and Rockland Utilities Inc., a Con Edison subsidiary - completed new agreements or expanded their relationships with Verizon for a range of advanced communications and information technology solutions.  Verizon also announced that it had been named a prime contractor under the U.S. General Services Administration's CONNECTIONS II contract to provide professional and managed services and custom networking solutions at federal facilities.
  • Verizon continued to broaden the scope and capabilities of its network infrastructure.  In fourth-quarter 2011, the company completed deployment of its next-generation 100 gigabit-per-second network route between New York City and Chicago and kicked off seven additional routes in the U.S.; expanded the Ethernet footprint to an additional 80 nodes supporting 23 areas in the Eastern part of the U.S.; expanded the global Private IP network into six additional countries in Africa and two more countries in the Middle East; and activated the first phase of the Europe India Gateway (EIG) submarine cable connecting Europe to the Middle East and Africa with 40G high-speed connections.
NOTE: Reclassifications of prior period amounts have been made, where appropriate, to reflect comparable operating results for the divestiture of overlapping wireless properties in 105 operating markets in 24 states during the first half of 2010; the wireless deferred revenue adjustment that was disclosed in Verizon's Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2010; the spinoff to Frontier of local exchange and related landline assets in 14 states, effective on July 1, 2010; and other non-operational items.  See the accompanying schedules and www.verizon.com/investor  for reconciliations to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for non-GAAP financial measures cited in this document.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to consumer, business, government and wholesale customers.  Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, with nearly 109 million total connections nationwide.  Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America's most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers integrated business solutions to customers in more than 150 countries, including all of the Fortune 500.  A Dow 30 company with $111 billion in 2011 revenues, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of nearly 194,000.  For more information, visit www.verizon.com.
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