A novel technique* under development at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) uses a relatively inexpensive optical microscope to quickly and cheaply analyze nanoscale dimensions with nanoscale measurement sensitivity.

Lenses in optical devices are kept in place by adhesives. This can cause problems when the microscopes and cameras are employed inside a vacuum, as the adhesives may release gases that contaminate the lenses. One alternative is to solder them instead.

SURFnet, a global leader in advanced network research, is enhancing the collaborative powers of academics at universities and higher education institutions in The Netherlands using a Nortel intelligent optical solution. The network powers the showcase StarPlane project which utilises pure optical technology to deliver on-demand computing power.

Nanoscale devices present a unique challenge to any optical technology — there’s just not enough room for light to travel in a straight line.

JDSU has taken a color-generating cue from nature. The company, a leading enabler of broadband and optical innovation, introduced ChromaFlair® ColorShift Glitter, a new color-shifting flake that gives paints, coatings, plastics, textiles and packaging the ability to exhibit a wide range of hues when viewed from different angles.