What are the applications of MEMS optical switches?

MEMS optical switches are based on micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) and use optical micromirrors or optical mirror arrays to change the propagation direction of light beams to achieve optical path switching. In what scenarios can MEMS optical switches be used?

1. Multicast Switch (MCS)

Based on PLC and MEMS technology, the multicast switch (MCS) is a key component of the next-generation reconfigurable optical add/drop multiplexing (ROADM) system. Each functional unit consists of M independent splitters and N independent MEMS optical switches, providing connections from N add (or drop) ports to M directions.

2. iODF (intelligent optical distribution frame)

Through cascading integration of optical switches, it can be used in iODFs (intelligent optical distribution frames), replacing traditional distribution frames in industry-specific networks.

3. Optical Cross-Connect (OXC)

Through cascading integration of optical switches, it can be used in small-scale OXCs to meet the needs of critical lines in industry-specific networks and data centers.

4. Optical Performance Monitoring

Integrating with TOF or OPM, combined with monitoring software, and using time-division multiplexing (ODM) to monitor the signal performance of DWDM channels within multi-core optical fibers within optical cables is widely used in optical transport network cable monitoring, ROADM networks, and DCI.

5. Optical Cable Monitoring

Integrating with OTDR and combining with monitoring software, and using time-division multiplexing (OTDR) to monitor the quality of multi-core optical fibers within optical cables is widely used in PON network cable monitoring, optical transport network cable monitoring, and industry-specific network cable monitoring.

6. Fiber Optic Sensing

The sensing market has significant potential, with 1×4 and 1×8 sensors being the primary products.

7. Test Instruments and Factory Automation

The market for test instruments and factory automation is relatively small, but offers high added value and places high demands on optical switch performance, such as insertion loss, return loss, and repeatability.

8. DWDM Systems

Channel power balancing, link node power attenuation, optical receiver input protection, and rapid optical line on/off control. Note: MEMS optical switches can be used to achieve comprehensive remote control of all-optical networks.