Optical Micro-Machines

About Optical Micro-Machines

Optical Micro-Machines (OMM), which later operated as OMM Inc., was a San Diego-based company established in 1997. The firm positioned itself as a key supplier of optical switch array modules, leveraging micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology. OMM successfully developed and produced what were considered the first commercial MEMS-based optical matrix switches in the world.

The company's business model was centered on designing, manufacturing, and selling these advanced optical switch subsystems to the telecommunications sector. Its client base grew to include more than 60 telecommunications equipment manufacturers who received its products. The enterprise's funding structure was a hybrid, attracting capital from both venture capital firms and strategic corporate investors. Notable venture backers included Sevin Rosen Funds, Atlas Venture, Bessemer Venture Partners, Rho Capital Partners, and Weston Presidio. Strategic investments came from major industry players such as Nortel Networks, Siemens, Alcatel, Sycamore Networks, Solectron, Fairchild Semiconductor, and Corvis Corporation.

Despite achieving significant technological milestones and securing numerous customer design wins, OMM faced insurmountable market challenges. The severe downturn in the global telecommunications industry at the beginning of the century drastically affected the market timing for the volume deployment of its products. After attempts to secure additional private funding to navigate the market collapse were unsuccessful, the company announced it would cease operations. OMM closed down on March 7, 2003, releasing its 85 employees and assigning its assets to creditors.