Wavelength-selective 1/spl times/K switches using free-space optics and MEMS micromirrors: theory, design, and implementation

The design and performance of several generations of wavelength-selective 1/spl times/K switches are reviewed. These optical subsystems combine the functionality of a demultiplexer, per-wavelength switch, and multiplexer in a single, low-loss unit. Free-space optics is utilized for spatially separat...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of lightwave technology 2005-04, Vol.23 (4), p.1620-1630
Main Authors: Marom, D.M., Neilson, D.T., Greywall, D.S., Chien-Shing Pai, Basavanhally, N.R., Aksyuk, V.A., Lopez, D.O., Pardo, F., Simon, M.E., Low, Y., Kolodner, P., Bolle, C.A.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Gratings
microelectromechanical devices
microelectromechanical system (MEMS)
Microelectromechanical systems
Micromechanical devices
Micromirrors
optical add/drop multiplexing (OADM)
Optical arrays
Optical design
Optical distortion
Optical fibers
optical filters
Optical network units
Optical switches
Wavelength division multiplexing
wavelength-selective switch
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Summary:The design and performance of several generations of wavelength-selective 1/spl times/K switches are reviewed. These optical subsystems combine the functionality of a demultiplexer, per-wavelength switch, and multiplexer in a single, low-loss unit. Free-space optics is utilized for spatially separating the constituent wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) channels as well as for space-division switching from an input optical fiber to one of K output fibers (1/spl times/K functionality) on a channel-by-channel basis using a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) micromirror array. The switches are designed to provide wide and flat passbands for minimal signal distortion. They can also provide spectral equalization and channel blocking functionality, making them well suited for use in transparent WDM optical mesh networks.
ISSN:0733-8724
1558-2213
DOI:10.1109/JLT.2005.844213