A novel 1×2 wavelength routing switch based on a tunable hybrid liquid-crystal solc filter

A novel 1×2 wavelength routing switch is introduced and analyzed. It is based on a tunable hybrid liquid-crystal Solc filter and a polarization beamsplitter. The device can be set into the bar state for an arbitrary subset of WDM channels while remaining in the cross state for the rest of channels. This is achieved via a tuning voltage applied to liquid-crystal cells. Interchannel crosstalk and its reduction are discussed. Application of the switch includes coarse and dense WDM.