Uniphase to buy SDL for $41 bn

The merger of JDS Uniphase and SDL is expected to facilitate the creation and deployment of high-capacity, flexible optical networks by accelerating the delivery of advanced products and basic building blocks of optical networks. These include optical amplifiers, lossless optical switches, integrated optical modules and other innovative solutions. The strong technology platforms from both companies encompass high-speed electronics, different forms of modulation, advanced multiplexing, enhanced active technologies, and a broad passive portfolio intended to make these products a reality.

Jozef Straus, JDS Uniphase Co-Chairman and CEO commented, "I am thrilled and excited about this merger and to have the opportunity to work closely together with Don Scifres and his team. JDS Uniphase and SDL share a common vision to provide customers with the most innovative and technologically advanced products that enhance their ability to deliver next-generation optical systems."

Don Scifres, SDL Chairman, President and CEO added, "This combination brings together world class technical and manufacturing teams that promise to deliver best-in-class products at increased volumes for today’s systems while developing solutions for tomorrow. We also expect to enable the migration from today’s hybrid integration and module level products to tomorrow’s truly integrated system on a chip."

SDL has approximately 1,700 employees and reported sales of$72 million in its first quarter ended March 31, 2000. JDS Uniphase has over 17,000 employees and reported sales of $395 million in its fiscal third quarter ended March 31, 2000. E-TEK Dynamics, acquired by JDS Uniphase on June 30, 2000, separately reported sales of $91 million in its third fiscal quarter ended April 1, 2000.

JDS Uniphase, headquartered in San Jose, Calif., and Nepean, Ontario, is a high technology company that designs, develops, manufactures and distributes a comprehensive range of products for the growing fiber optic communications market. These products are deployed by system manufacturers worldwide to develop advanced optical networks for the telecommunications and cable television industries.