Multi-wavelength cross-connect optical switch

Abstract

A cross-connect switch for fiber-optic communication networks employing a wavelength dispersive element, such as a grating, and a stack of regular (non-wavelength selective) cross bar switches using two-dimensional arrays of micromachined, electrically actuated, individually-tiltable, controlled deflection micromirrors for providing multiport switching capability for a plurality of wavelengths. Using a one-dimensional micromirror array, a fiber-optic based MEMS switched spectrometer that does not require mechanical motion of bulk components or large diode arrays can be constructed with readout capability for WDM network diagnosis or for general purpose spectroscopic applications.

1 . A fiber optic switch, comprising an array of actuated mirrors for switching optic signals from a plurality of input optic fibers onto a plurality of output optic fibers.  
   
   
       2 - 30 . (canceled)