In search of transparent networks

被引：7

作者：

Morris, AS ^{[1
]}

机构：

[1] Coventor Inc, Adv Opt & RF MEMS Microelectromech Syst Dev, Cary, NC USA

[2] N Carolina State Univ, Raleigh, NC 27695 USA

来源：

IEEE SPECTRUM | 2001年 / 38卷 / 10期

关键词：

Demultiplexing - Holography - Light polarization - Light transmission - Liquid crystals - Microelectromechanical devices - Optical switches - Optical waveguides - Transparency;

D O I：

10.1109/6.954540

中图分类号：

TM [电工技术]; TN [电子技术、通信技术];

学科分类号：

0808 ; 0809 ;

摘要：

Optical switches relevant to optical transmission technology are discussed. Various all-optical switching technologies find their use in differnet applications related to optical communication networks. The applications include arrays of tiny movable mirrors known as microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and units based on holographic crystals, liquid crystals, total internal reflection and polarization-dependent materials. Many other MEMS approaches to switching includes moving fibers, bending waveguides, sliding shutters and curling mirrors and each contains unique features for small and medium-scale switching. MEMS technology is reported to offer the best combination of crucial qualities to produce an effective transparent switch.

引用

页码：47 / +

页数：6