Abstract: A synchronous memory device and its method of operation which can be set to operate at a plurality of supported prefetch modes. The prefetch mode may be set by programming a portion of a mode register of the memory device or by setting one or more programmable elements. For read operations, the synchronous memory device internally reads data corresponding to the largest supported prefetch size, and outputs read data corresponding to the current mode. For write operations the synchronous memory accepts write data corresponding to the selected prefetch mode and writes the received data to the array. Data words corresponding to data not received are masked from writing via a write masking circuit.

Abstract: A low threshold distributed feedback (DFB) laser is constructed for improved performance at subzero temperatures. A loss grating is employed to enhance the probability that lasing occurs near the short wavelength side of the stopband and to counteract the effect of negative gain tilt that occurs when DFB lasers are positively detuned. A method of making DFB lasers from wafers with improved yield for low temperature side mode suppression ratio (SMSR) is also disclosed.