Intel introduced Light Peak technology at IDF 2009 in San Francisco. Light Peak is an optical interconnect that runs at 10Gbps and supports multiple I/O protocols like USB, FireWire and DisplayPort on single cable. CNET is reporting that the new technology could come to the market in 2010 as many companies have started developing cables and connectors for the new technology.

Foci Fiber Optic Communication’s Vice President, Janpu Hou said “we plan to have our pilot run ready by end of November 2009, and ready to be in mass production in beginning of year 2010”. Similarly SAE Magnetics, a subsidiary of TDK also said that they have developed an early version of optical modules that can support two Light Peak ports.

The only question that remains on viability of Light Peak technology is durability of optical fiber cable. However, Janpu Hou says “The cables are quite durable, and can be connected and disconnected for at least 7,000 times”. He also says that the optical cable can be bent into a loop just over an inch in diameter with no problem and using them repeatedly isn’t an issue.

Many companies like Foxconn, Foxlink, Avago, SAE, Iptronics, Corning, Elaser and Ensphere have partnered-up with Intel for development of products based on Light Peak technology. And computer manufacturers like Sony and Apple are also pushing for the new Light Peak technology.

Intel is already working with USB-IF to make Light Peak a standard and it could take couple of years to get approval. But Intel and other companies can start using the technology before the standard is approved like wireless router manufacturers have be doing for past 4 years before 802.11n was officially finalized this year.