MEMS 2D matrix switch

Microelectromechanical systems, or MEMS, are among several promising technical approaches to implementing all-optical switching in telecom and data networks. At the core of MEMS switches is an array of micromirrors capable of redirecting light either in free space or within a waveguide framework. The 2D switch architecture as shown in figure I employs one mirror for every possible switched node in a matrix switch, and thus requires N/sup 2/ mirrors for an NXN array. 2D mirror arrays are characterized by two-state mirror positioning. One state is inactive and requires only that the mirror can be parked out of the optical path.