Liquid crystal-based self-aligning 2 X 2 wavelength routing module

A novel retroreflective polarization insensitive 2x2 fiber optic switch (FO S) using programmable quarter waveplates (QWPs) is introduced. Key features include low polarization sensitivity and a self-aligning module via a comp act retroreflective structure. A proof of concept 2x2 FOS using ferroelectr ic liquid crystal (FLC)-based (PIPS) Laboratory programmable QWPs is demons trated, providing a response speed of 394 mus and a low 10.14-mW total elec trical power consumption for the and worst case. Multiwavelength switch ope ration in the 1550-nm wave length region indicates an average optical loss of 6.02 dB with a +/-0.18-dB loss fluctuation, and an optical coherent cros stalk of -21.6 dB with a +/-0.84 dB variation over a 60-nm bandwidth. The t emperature dependence of our switch is investigated over a 17 degreesC rang e, indicating an average 5.80-dB optical loss with a +/-0.13-dB fluctuation , and an average optical coherent crosstalk of -20.5 dB with a fluctuation of +/-0.42 dB. An average polarization dependent loss of 0.4 dB is also mea sured. A time-multiplexed FLC device addressing technique is introduced for FOS to achieve long duration operation. (C) 2001 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers.