This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will lead to the development of a new type of widely tunable external cavity diode laser for use in next generation optical networks. These networks, parts of which are being deployed now, will rely on a high degree of network flexibility, especially on the ability to dynamically provision wavelengths throughout the communication grid upon demand. Key to deployment of such networks will be the availability of widely tunable source lasers at price points that are competitive with present fixed-wavelength telecommunications lasers. <br/><br/>The result of this multiphase R&D effort will be production and marketing of a widely tunable transmitter module for long-haul telecommunications.