Xtera Communications

About Xtera Communications

Xtera Communications, Inc. operates as a key supplier in the subsea telecommunications sector, specializing in the provision and installation of optical transport solutions. The company was originally founded in 1998 by Jon Hopper, a co-founder of Sycamore Networks. Hopper, alongside his team, established Xtera with the vision of enhancing optical transport networks. A significant milestone in the company's history was its acquisition of assets from Azea Networks in July 2007. In 2017, the company's assets were acquired by H.I.G. Capital, which led to the formation of Xtera, Inc. based in West Windsor, New Jersey.

The firm's business model revolves around designing, building, and commissioning subsea cable systems for a diverse clientele that includes telecom carriers, content service providers, and government entities. Xtera generates revenue through multiple streams, including the sale of full turnkey systems, where it manages projects from conception to completion, and the supply of specific products and services on an unbundled basis. This flexible approach allows customers to choose from a range of services, including system design, equipment supply, and installation.

Xtera's core offering encompasses both un-repeatered and repeatered subsea systems. A key differentiator is its proprietary high-power optical amplification technology, which enables the extension of unrepeatered systems to greater lengths and capacities. This technology is central to its product portfolio, which includes subsea optical repeaters, branching units, and a range of terrestrial and submarine line terminal equipment. The company emphasizes an open architecture design, allowing for interoperability with equipment from other vendors and giving clients more control over their network infrastructure. This strategy positions Xtera as a versatile partner capable of delivering customized solutions for both new and existing undersea routes.