Optical networking equipment manufacturing

Abstract

Celestica, a global contract manufacturer specializing in printed circuit board assembly and computer assembly, has recently begun manufacturing equipment for the optical networking equipment (ONE) industry. The expansion to include ONE manufacturing requires the development of new skills in handling optical fiber and components, a new supply chain strategy, and a new approach to manufacturing systems control. Celestica is developing a set of standards for ONE manufacturing that will support the rapid development of the new skills required for this industry. This work outlines the standards and explores the specific issues related to manufacturing with optical fiber, including the mechanical reliability and optical performance of various types of optical fibers. An overview of the telecommunications industry is provided, including an analysis of its supply chain structure. Observations are made on trends in the industry and the ways that these trends have affected Celestica in the past, and could impact Celestica in the future. Finally, Celestica's current approach to manufacturing systems control is evaluated, and suggestions are made for improving systems control and project management when manufacturing for such a rapidly evolving industry.