Two novel 2/spl times/2 models for MEMS-based optical switches

The next generation all-optical IP network is calling for optical switching, among all implemental technologies of which optical MEMS seems to be the most promising candidate. However, the road leading to the pure optical world is not so smooth; complexity, reliability and scalability are among the most threatening challenges. This paper proposes two novel models for designing 2/spl times/2 MEMS-based optimal switches, which surmount the obstacles with distinguishing features respectively. Optimizing the overall performance of optical switches, they are anticipated to play critical roles in the future all-optical networks and make those cost-effective optical switches eminent on the communications arena.