A hybrid MEMS-waveguide wavelength selective cross connect

A 16-channel 100-GHz-spacing wavelength selective cross connect is demonstrated using a combination of planar waveguides and MEMS piston-mirrors. Interswitch crosstalk is eliminated and switching speed is an order of magnitude faster than typical thermooptic switches. The power consumption is smaller than one microwatt per switch. An extinction ratio of 20 dB and an insertion loss of 10.6 dB are demonstrated.