Advanced multifunctional optical switch for multimode optical fiber networks

In this work, an advanced multifunctional optical switch based on multimode fibers is proposed. It can work as a 3×1 optical multiplexer/combiner, a 2×2 optical switch, a variable optical attenuator and a variable optical power splitter. All these functionalities can be developed in the same device...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Optics communications 2012-06, Vol.285 (12), p.2802-2808
Main Authors: Lallana, P.C., Vázquez, C., Vinouze, B.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Devices
Engineering Sciences
Fiber optics
Liquid crystals
Multiplexing
Networks
Noise levels
Optical fibers
Optical multiplexer
Optical switches
Optical switching
Optics
Photonic
Switching theory
Variable optical attenuators
Variable optical splitters
Wavelengths
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Summary:In this work, an advanced multifunctional optical switch based on multimode fibers is proposed. It can work as a 3×1 optical multiplexer/combiner, a 2×2 optical switch, a variable optical attenuator and a variable optical power splitter. All these functionalities can be developed in the same device without any hardware modification, only by using the proper ports and control electronics. The proposed switch has been developed for being used in the visible and near infrared wavelength range: 450–650nm for optical fiber automobile applications, 650–850nm for home broadband applications; and 850–1300nm for multimode fiber access networks. Up to three different types of twisted nematic liquid crystal cells have been designed and fabricated for fulfilling these different wavelength ranges as part of the proposed device. The multifunctional switch has been implemented and experimentally tested. Crosstalk usually better than −15dB at 532nm, 660nm and 850nm, in any state has been measured. Switching is achieved at voltage levels of 4Vrms. Fiber to fiber insertion losses when operating as a 2×2 optical switch, range from 10 to 15dB within 200nm wavelength range; with a non-optimized optics for collimation and coupling.
ISSN:0030-4018
1873-0310
DOI:10.1016/j.optcom.2012.01.068