Intel will boost its optical networking processor lineup with the purchase of West Bay Semiconductor.

West Bay designs networking processors that transmit voice and data signals over SONET/SDH (Synchronous Optical Networking/Synchronous Digital Hierarchy) networks, Intel said.

The chips are designed for products that use SONET/SDH applications running at 2.5Gbps or less, and will be incorporated into Intel's product line for that segment of the market.

Intel will use West Bay's technology to build networking chips on its 90-nanometer process technology, which is expected to be running with the release of the Prescott desktop processor later this year.

Intel plans to assimilate most of West Bay's employees into Intel's Optical Products Group.