The challenges of the broadband stimulus program require a middle-mile network that can support a range of last-mile networks and services. As a leading provider of long-haul optical networks in North America, Infinera's digital networks provide the speed, scalability, and flexibility to deliver a reliable, cost-effective middle-mile solution. Infinera networks are designed to use photonic integration to deliver powerful scalability and digital intelligence to make the network quick to deploy and easy to manage.

The benefits of Infinera networks can be grouped under four headings: speed, scalability, sustainability, and U.S. jobs.

Under the terms of the ARRA Stimulus Act of 2009, stimulus projects must be implemented quickly. Based on Infinera's unique photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technology, the Infinera DTN integrates more than 60 optical components and 100 Gb/s of capacity into a single pair of chips, significantly reducing the number of parts required for a middle-mile network. With powerful GMPLS-based network management software, an Infinera network is designed to make the installation and commissioning process easier and faster than with traditional networks. Extensive worldwide experience has shown us that Infinera networks can be installed and commissioned in as little as one quarter the time it would take with traditional DWDM networking gear.

Infinera systems deliver ten 10Gb/s wavelengths with each line card. All wavelengths are turned up and ready for service from the moment the line card is commissioned. This enables Infinera networks to quickly and seamlessly accommodate sudden spikes in demand and respond rapidly to the demands of new customers or unforeseen events.

The federal government is proposing to finance significant portions of the capital cost of the initial build of stimulus networks, but thereafter, these networks will have to prove themselves financially sustainable without additional government support. Many stimulus networks will not be able to rely on high penetration rates or high revenue per customer levels achievable in densely populated urban areas. Manageable operating costs are therefore a key priority for stimulus networks. Infinera networks are designed to deliver lower operating costs, and simpler operations, than traditional DWDM networks. All Infinera systems are designed with simplicity of operation in mind. The powerful network management software automates many of the configuration challenges of a DWDM network, making it quicker and easier to install and commission an Infinera network. The digital ROADM capabilities of the Infinera DTN simplify the design of an Infinera network, and simplify trouble-shooting when a problem is encountered. Unlike other DWDM systems, Infinera networks can be managed by engineers not highly experienced in optics or DWDM systems. The net result is a network that can reach break-even more quickly, and generate higher cash flow over time.

The overriding objective of the federal government's $787 billion ARRA stimulus package is to get America back to work, and get the nation out of recession. Infinera is one of the few middle-mile optical systems suppliers where a very large part of the engineering and manufacturing activity takes place in the U.S. At Infinera, our core innovation, the photonic integrated circuit, was developed primarily in Sunnyvale, California, and every one of our PICs is manufactured there. An Infinera-powered stimulus network creates jobs at Infinera (where we are still hiring as our customer list continues to expand). This will be a clear positive factor for government officials reviewing a stimulus application; also any public-sector customers of your network will be pleased to know that your optical network comes from a company that is investing in the future of American technology.