MEMS 1×N Fiber Optical Switches

Reliable, Latching, Low Cost, Compact

Photonwares MEMS fiber optical switches use a state-of-the-art 2D configuration in which each mirror only moves within two positions: in or out of the light path, as shown in the enclosed Figure 1. Our unique digital micro-mirror technology advantageously eliminates the need for software position calibrations associated with conventional analog MEMS (shown in Figure 2), that have long term drift issues. The switches are based on a highly reliable thermal actuation that establishes optical signal paths in milliseconds, eliminating the risk of electrostatic stiction and electric discharge shorting.   The switches feature very low latency,  intrinsic temperature insensitivity, latching to the positions against vibrations, direct driving, and low cost.  The versatile platform accommodates various fibers of SM, PM, and MM.  The passive switches support all date rates, ideally suited to manage optical networks intelligently and remotely with extremely low latency.