2/25/2004 -- Last week Cisco Systems debuted its newly revised Optical Specialist certification, now split into two separate focuses: SONET and SDH.

To earn the new title, candidates can choose between two new exams: 642-311 Optical SONET or 642-321 Optical SDH. Passing either exam will earn the specialty title.

In an earlier interview with CertCities.com, a Cisco spokesperson explained the split as a way for candidates in different areas of the world to be able to focus on their particular optical specialty. With the launch, Cisco is recommending the SONET path for candidates in the U.S., Canada, and Korea, and SDH for those in Latin America, Europe and Asian countries other than Korea.

More information about this certification can be found here. -Becky Nagel