SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Opnext, Inc. (NASDAQ:OPXT), a global leader offering one of the most comprehensive families of high power, low operating current red and infrared laser diodes, today announced the introduction of the HL40023MG, a high power 404nm, 500mW violet laser diode for biomedical illumination applications, as well as direct imaging on PCB manufacturing surfaces. A demonstration of the violet laser diode is taking place during the Photonics West conference, January 25-27, 2011, at the San Francisco - Moscone Center, Opnext Booth # 1837.

Current biomedical and direct imaging system manufacturers are using solid state laser diodes that are large and consume tremendous amounts of power. The HL40023MG violet laser diode offers manufacturers the option to use a high power diode in a small 5.6mm package. With a typical operating current of 390mA, the HL40023MG provides 400mW of optical output power.

“We believe cost competitive, high intensity sources like Opnext’s 404nm lasers are critical to improving the capabilities of state-of-the-art instruments like high performance illuminators,” said Claudia Jaffe, Vice President of Business Development at Lumencor. “Lumencor is proud to be working with Opnext on this important class of powerful semiconductor sources.”

“We’re excited to bring another quality laser diode to market that helps companies like Lumencor develop a medical illumination system that uses a light source to perform medical imaging tests and research,” said Tadayuki Kanno, President of Opnext’s devices business unit. “As the industry trend moves toward using higher power laser diodes, we will continue to develop innovative diodes with a low operating current.”

Opnext offers a broad spectrum of laser diode products that span 404nm to 850nm, driven by more than 30 years of innovative laser heritage. Opnext high-quality, reliable laser diodes are proven to consume a low operating current, which extends battery life, while still maintaining the integrity of the laser diode power in a variety of applications.

The HL40023MG is scheduled for mass production in February 2011. For additional information or sample quantities, please contact any one of the Opnext sales offices.

(OPXT-G)

About Opnext

Opnext (NASDAQ:OPXT) is the optical technology partner of choice supplying systems providers and OEMs worldwide with one of the industry’s largest portfolios of 10G and higher next generation optical products and solutions. The Company’s industry expertise, future-focused thinking and commitment to research and development combine in bringing to market the most advanced technology to the communications, defense, security and biomedical industries. Formed out of Hitachi, Opnext has built on more than 30 years experience in advanced technology to establish its broad portfolio of solutions and solid reputation for excellence in service and delivering value to its customers. For additional information, visit www.opnext.com.

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