A -- Forward Error Correction Method for Use on Free-Space Optical Communications Networks

LLNL SEEKS INDUSTRIAL PARTNERS TO COMMERCIALIZE A FORWARD ERROR CORRECTION DEVICE FOR USE ON FREE-SPACE OPTICAL COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS Announcement: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), operated by the University of California under contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), is seeking one or more industrial partners to manufacture and market a forward error correction (FEC) device for use on free-space optical (FSO) laser communications networks. The device, developed at LLNL, has demonstrated the ability to mitigate the frequent and severe loss of signal that occurs due to atmospheric fading and beam pointing jitter. Fade durations on the order of 10 ms can be perfectly corrected and data speeds of at least 2.5 Gbps can be handled. Commercial applications include FSO links for - last mile network connections. Military applications include long-range air-to-air and air-to-ground FSO links for tactical and reconnaissance missions. The successful industrial partner will be responsible for the detailed design, fabrication, testing, and manufacturing of the FEC device, requiring the following capabilities: Digital simulation and verification at the system level, high-speed digital design up to 2.5 GHz, incorporation of commercial FEC cores supplied in VHDL, implementation in FPGAs or ASICs, circuit board layout and fabrication, packaging, and electrical testing. LLNL will provide technical guidance in this cooperative partnership. LLNL is seeking industrial partners with a demonstrated ability to bring such inventions to the market. Moving critical technology beyond the Laboratory to the commercial world helps our U.S. licensees gain a competitive edge in the marketplace. LLNL is also looking for collaborative research and development to improve the invention and to explore other usages of the invention. The University of California's Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory can license technology through exclusive or non-exclusive licensing agreements, as appropriate. All projects are conducted under policies relating to the strict nondisclosure of company proprietary information. Note: THIS IS NOT A PROCUREMENT. Companies interested in commercializing the FEC device should provide a written statement of interest that must include the following information: 1. Company name and address. 2. The name, address, telephone number, and fax number of a point of contact. 3. A description of your company's expertise and facilities relevant to commercializing this technology. 4. Statement of your company's potential interest in collaborative research partnering. Written responses should be directed to: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Industrial Partnerships and Commercialization Office P.O. Box 808, L-795 Livermore, CA 94551 Attention: FBO000025-03 Please provide your written statement within thirty (30) days from the date this announcement is printed to ensure consideration of your response.