Active Optical Cable

Collaboratively developed with FOCI, PCL, OpTarget and UMEC, the VIA Labs V0510 optical transceiver extends the reach of USB 3.0 to over 100 meters

Taipei, Taiwan, 13 January, 2012 - VIA Labs, Inc., a leading supplier of USB 3.0 integrated chip controllers, today announced the VIA Labs VO510 5-Gigabit Optical Transceiver which is being showcased at CES 2012. The VIA Labs V0510 Optical Transceiver is used in USB 3.0 Active Optical Cables (AOC) which enables rapid data transfers and high-definition multimedia across distances of over 100 meters. Developed in collaboration with FOCI, PCL, OpTarget and UMEC, USB 3.0 AOC solutions offer exciting new possibilities in the use of USB 3.0 technology. 

"This USB 3.0 AOC was designed to be fully compliant with SuperSpeed USB electrical specifications," said Dr. Janpu Hou, Vice President of FOCI. "We are very pleased to be a partner on this collaboration team. This partnership will accelerate the deployment of breakthrough USB 3.0 technologies and enable new applications for all USB 3.0 developers." As a partner of FOCI, Dr. Thomas Liu, President of PCL said "As the world leading optical transceiver ODM/CM company, PCL Technologies is excited to build and demonstrate the optical USB 3.0 cable in collaboration with VIA Labs and Foci.  With the USB 3.0 AOCs providing higher data rates across much longer distances, we will enable usage scenarios in Digital Signage, Surveillance, and Zero Client applications."

"OpTarget works with leading system integrators, distributors, and OEMs in the development and delivery of Smart Digital Signage and Zero Client solutions for commercial, education, and industrial customers. With the ultra-thin profile and long reach of the new USB 3.0 AOC powered by VIA Labs' Optical Transceiver, we can now offer effective and low-cost solutions based on existing USB devices while providing an improved user experience, increased functionality, and greater system flexibility" said Mu Chen, President of OpTarget.
"The UMEC Thumb ONE USB 3.0 AOC can extend gigabit-speed USB 3.0 transmission distance up to 100m (330ft) with optical fibers.  Since optical fibers carry light instead of electric impulses, they are highly resistant to electromagnetic interference and they do not radiate any of their own, making the USB 3.0 AOC an excellent solution for applications in Medical Imaging Equipment, Broadcast TV, and others where high-tolerance to interference is desirable" said K.T. Chao, Vice President of UMEC.

"We are very grateful to our partners, who worked closely with VIA Labs to bring the USB 3.0 AOC from concept to reality,” said Jiin Lai, Chief Technical Officer, VIA Labs, Inc. “With the VO510 and our partner's AOC products at mass production readiness, we are looking to expand our coverage of other interconnects such as PCI Express."

VIA Labs will be in attendance at CES Las Vegas this January 10th to 14th and showcasing the new technology as well as their full product line. To schedule a meeting with a VIA Labs representative please contact Sales@via-labs.com.tw

About VIA Labs, Inc.

VIA Labs, Inc is the foremost supplier of USB 3.0 integrated chip controllers that are driving adoption of the new SuperSpeed USB data transfer specification. A wholly owned subsidiary of x86 processor platform provider, VIA Technologies, Inc., VIA Labs leverages its experience in high-speed serial link interfaces, in-house PHY design, and complete system integration to offer customers industry leading technology along with guaranteed high quality and implementation support. www.via-labs.com

About FOCI Inc.

FOCI Fiber Optic Communications Inc. (Taiwan OTC: 3363) is a fiber optic component company based in Hsinchu Science Park, Hsinchu, Taiwan. Founded in 1995, FOCI designs, manufactures and sells a comprehensive line of passive fiber-optic components for high- capacity data transmission in the fiber to the home and fiber to the desk markets. Its global speed-to-market strategy calls for fast-paced product development and flexible, turnkey manufacturing capacity.

About PCL Technologies Inc.

PCL Technologies Inc. (PCL) is a global engineering and manufacturing service provider for the optical components and modules in the field of communication and networking industry.  PCL provides the optical foundry services with a variety of optical and electro-mechanical processes and technologies from the design, engineering development, supply chain management, to high-volume production. PCL offers comprehensive design and verification solutions which ensures manufacturability and quality for optical products. PCL maintains engineering and manufacturing resources and facilities in China. For more information visit: http//www.pcltech.com

About OpTarget Solutions Co., Ltd.

OpTarget Solutions Co., Ltd. is the supplier of Active Cables which include USB 3.0 AOC, USB3.0 Active copper cable, HDMI and etc. OpTarget works with hardware and software partners to provide total solutions for Smart Digital Signage, Zero Client server/clients, and USB-HDMI adapters for Brand-Name and ODM customers.

About Universal Microelectronics Co,. Ltd.

Universal Microelectronics Co. LTD (TSEC: UMEC) is well known as a superior supplier in Magnetic Components, Power Supplies, Information and Communication Components and Products, Photonics Equipment and Components, LCM, and TV products. Founded in 1984, Universal Microelectronics is headquartered in Taichung, Taiwan. The Company was listed on the TSEC OTC in 1988 and TAIEX in 2000. Market capitalization is estimated at USD$ 43 million with annual sales revenue over USD $135 million. The Taichung headquarters is located at the heart of Taiwan, with service and support centers located throughout Asia, Europe, and North America. Universal Microelectronics has two main manufacturing facilities to provide high quality and competitive products – one located in Taichung Industrial Park, Taiwan and the other in ShenZhen, China. The Company's facilities are fully certified to an array of international standards, including ISO-9001/14001, QS- 9000, QS, BABT, TL, and TUV. For more information, please visit http://www.umec-web.net.