The present invention provides an optical connection component which comprises a
solid state
laser component for emitting a modulated beam of light in response to an applied electrical
signal. The optical connection component also comprises an optical lens positioned relative to the
solid state
laser component at a predetermined position in which the optical lens reduces
divergence of the emitted beam of light. The optical lens is formed at the predetermined position in a manner such that the optical lens is immobile relative to the
solid state
laser component. The optical connection component further comprises an optical
waveguide having a core for guiding the light. The optical
waveguide has first and second end-portions. The first end-portion is positioned for
coupling the modulated light from the optical lens into the core. In addition, the optical connection component comprises a
receiver for receiving the modulated light from the second end-portion of the optical
waveguide and arranged for converting the modulated light into a corresponding electrical
signal.