SAN JOSE, Calif., March 16 -- Oplink Communications Inc. has been issued a US patent for its wavelength optical circulator process.
   "We believe this is a highly significant patent for Oplink," said Fred Fromm, Oplink president. "The process invented by our scientists is a key enabling technology in Oplink's innovative fiber optics solutions."
   The patented optical circulator process simplifies the manufacture of optical circulators by using fewer components in their production. The simpler design shortens manufacturing times, increases quality and makes Oplink's circulators cost-effective, said Oplink.