Multi-wavelength cross-connect optical switch

• US 6,834,136 B2
• Filed: 03/20/2001
• Issued: 12/21/2004
• Est. Priority Date: 02/13/1997
• Status: Expired due to Term

• Current Assignee: Regents of the University of California (University of California)
• Original Assignee: Regents of the University of California (University of California)
• Inventors: Solgaard, Olav, Bhattarai, Amal R., Heritage, Jonathan P.
• Primary Examiner(s): Lee, John D.
• Application Number:
  US09/813,446
• Publication Number:
  US 20020012489A1
• Time in Patent Office: 1,372 Days
• Field of Search: 385/16-24
• US Class Current: 385/18
• CPC Class Codes: G01J 3/28 Investigating the spectrum using colour filters G01J3/51
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/32 having lens focusing means positioned between opposed fibre ends with lens being an integral part of the single fibre end G02B6/262
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/35 having switching means by changing the optical properties of the medium G02F1/00
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/3512 the optical element being reflective, e.g. mirror
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/3516 the reflective optical element moving along the beam path, e.g. controllable diffractive effects using multiple micromirrors within the beam
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/3518 the reflective optical element being an intrinsic part of a MEMS device, i.e. fabricated together with the MEMS device MEMS devices in general B81B; manufacture of MEM devices in general B81C; micromechanical devices controlling the direction of light G02B26/0833
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/3534 the optical element being diffractive, i.e. a grating
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/3542 Non-blocking switch, e.g. with multiple potential paths between multiple inputs and outputs, the establishment of one switching path not preventing the establishment of further switching paths
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/3546 NxM switch, i.e. a regular array of switches elements of matrix type constellation
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/3556 NxM switch, i.e. regular arrays of switches elements of matrix type constellation
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/356 in an optical cross-connect device, e.g. routing and switching aspects of interconnecting different paths propagating different wavelengths to (re)configure the various input and output links switching polarized beams G02B6/3594; power equalizers G02B6/356 and G02B6/3594; path selecting means H04Q11/0001
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/3566 involving bending a beam, e.g. with cantilever
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/357 Electrostatic force electrostatic forces controlling reflecting elements in general G02B26/0841
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/3582 Housing means or package or arranging details of the switching elements, e.g. for thermal isolation
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/3584 constructional details of an associated actuator having a MEMS construction, i.e. constructed using semiconductor technology such as etching MEMS per se B81B, B81C
• CPC Class Codes: G02B 6/3592 Means for removing polarization dependence of the switching means, i.e. polarization insensitive switching light guides coupling with polarization selective and adjusting means G02B6/27
• CPC Class Codes: H04Q 11/0005 Switch and router aspects
• CPC Class Codes: H04Q 2011/0024 using space switching
• CPC Class Codes: H04Q 2011/0026 using free space propagation (e.g. lenses, mirrors)
• CPC Class Codes: H04Q 2011/0083 Testing; Monitoring

Abstract

A cross-connect switch for fiber-optic communication networks employing a wavelength dispersive element, such as a grating, and a stack of regular (non-wavelength selective) cross bar switches using two-dimensional arrays of micromachined, electrically actuated, individually-tiltable, controlled deflection micromirrors for providing multiport switching capability for a plurality of wavelengths. Using a one-dimensional micromirror array, a fiber-optic based MEMS switched spectrometer that does not require mechanical motion of bulk components or large diode arrays can be constructed with readout capability for WDM network diagnosis or for general purpose spectroscopic applications.

Claims

1. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) an input array of actuated mirrors; and

(d) an output array of actuated mirrors;

(e) said input and output arrays of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

(f) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component of said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam and switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

7. An optical switch as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, further comprising means for positioning said optical beam onto at least one input array of actuated mirrors.

8. An optical switch as recited in claim 7, wherein said means for positioning comprises at least one lens.

9. An optical switch as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, further comprising at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one input array of actuated mirrors.

10. An optical switch as recited in claim 9, wherein at least one imaging component comprises at least one lens.

11. An optical switch as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port.

12. An optical switch as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors.

13. An optical switch as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6,

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port; and

wherein said optical switch is further configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors.

14. An optical switch as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein each mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors is configured to steer an incident optical beam to any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors.

15. An optical switch as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein each output mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors can be set to receive an optical beam from any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors.

16. An optical switch as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6,

wherein each mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors is configured to steer an incident optical beam to any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors;

and

wherein each output mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors can be set to receive an optical beam from any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors.

17. An optical switch as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein at least one array of actuated mirrors comprises a two-dimensional array.

18. An optical switch as recited in claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein at least one output array of actuated mirrors is spatially separated from at least one input array of actuated mirrors.

2. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) an input array of actuated mirrors; and

(d) an output array of actuated mirrors;

(e) said input and output arrays of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one said input port to at least one said output port;

(f) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam and switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one said input port to at least one said output port.

3. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) an input array of actuated mirrors; and

(d) an output array of actuated mirrors;

(e) said input and output arrays of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any said input port to any said output port;

(f) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam and switching said at least one wavelength component from any said input port to any said output port.

4. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) at least one input array of actuated mirrors; and

(d) at least one output array of actuated mirrors;

(e) said input and output arrays of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

(f) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam and switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

5. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) at least one input array of actuated mirrors; and

(d) at least one output array of actuated mirrors;

(e) said input and output arrays of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one said input port to at least one said output port;

(f) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam and switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one said input port to at least one said output port.

6. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) at least one input array of actuated mirrors; and

(d) at least one output array of actuated mirrors;

(e) said input and output arrays of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any said input port to any said output port;

(f) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam and switching said at least one wavelength component from any said input port to any said output port.

19. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) an input array of actuated mirrors;

(d) an output array of actuated mirrors; and

(e) at feast one imaging component configured for positioning an optical beam onto said input array of actuated mirrors;

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in said input array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(g) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said output array of actuated mirrors; and

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam and switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

22. An optical switch as recited in claim 19, 20, or, 21, wherein at least one imaging component comprises at least one lens.

23. An optical switch as recited in claim 19, 20, or 21, wherein each mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors is configured to steer an incident optical beam to any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors.

24. An optical switch as recited in claim 19, 20, or 21, wherein each output mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors can be set to receive an optical beam from any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors.

25. An optical switch as recited in claim 19, 20, or 21,

wherein each mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors is configured to steer an incident optical beam to any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors; and

wherein each output mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors can be set to receive an optical beam from any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors.

26. An optical switch as recited in claim 19, 20, or 21, wherein at least one array of actuated mirrors comprises a two-dimensional array.

27. An optical switch as recited in claim 19, 20, or 21, wherein at least one output array of actuated mirrors is spatially separated from at least one input array of actuated mirrors.

20. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) at least one input array of actuated mirrors;

(d) at least one output array of actuated mirrors; and

(e) at least one imaging component configured for positioning an optical beam onto at least one input array of actuated mirrors;

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in an input array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(g) wherein said optical switch is further configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in an output array of actuated mirrors;

(h) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam and switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

21. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) at least one input array of actuated mirrors;

(d) at least one output array of actuated mirrors; and

(e) at least one imaging component configured for positioning an optical beam onto at least one input array of actuated mirrors;

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(g) wherein said optical switch is further configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors;

(h) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam and switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

28. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) an input array of actuated mirrors;

(d) an output array of actuated mirrors; and

(e) at least one imaging component configured for positioning an optical beam onto said input array of actuated mirrors;

(f) wherein each mirror in said input array of actuated mirrors is configured to steer an incident optical beam to any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in said output array of actuated mirrors;

(g) wherein each output mirror in said output array of actuated mirrors can be set to receive an optical beam from any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in said input array of actuated mirrors;

(h) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam and switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

31. An optical switch as recited in claim 28, 29, or 30, wherein at least one imaging component comprises at least one lens.

32. An optical switch as recited in claim 28, 29, or 30, wherein at least one array of actuated mirrors comprises a two-dimensional array.

33. An optical switch as recited in claim 28, 29, or 30, wherein at least one output array of actuated mirrors is spatially separated from at least one input array of actuated mirrors.

34. An optical switch as recited in claim 28, 29, or 30, wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port.

35. An optical switch as recited in claim 28, 29, or 30, wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors.

36. An optical switch as recited in claim 28, 29, or 30,

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port; and

wherein said optical switch is further configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors.

29. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) at least one input array of actuated mirrors;

(d) at least one output array of actuated mirrors; and

(e) at least one imaging component configured for positioning an optical beam onto at least one input array of actuated mirrors;

(f) wherein each mirror in an input array of actuated mirrors is configured to steer an incident optical beam to any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in an output array of actuated mirrors;

(g) wherein each output mirror in an output array of actuated mirrors can be set to receive an optical beam from any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in an input array of actuated mirrors;

(h) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam and switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

30. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) at least one input array of actuated mirrors;

(d) at least one output array of actuated mirrors; and

(e) at least one imaging component configured for positioning an optical beam onto at least one input array of actuated mirrors;

(f) wherein each mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors is configured to steer an incident optical beam to any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors;

(g) wherein each output mirror in at least one output array of actuated mirrors can be set to receive an optical beam from any, but not more than one for a given setting, mirror in at least one input array of actuated mirrors;

(h) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam and switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

37. An optical switch, comprising:

an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port; and

at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one array of actuated mirrors;

said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

43. An optical switch as recited in claim 37, 38, 39, 40, 41 or 42, wherein said imaging component comprises at least one lens.

38. An optical switch, comprising:

an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one input port to at least one output port; and

at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one array of actuated mirrors;

said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

39. An optical switch, comprising:

an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any input port to any output port; and

at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one array of actuated mirrors;

said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

40. An optical switch, comprising:

at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port; and

at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one array of actuated mirrors;

said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

41. An optical switch, comprising:

at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one input port to at least one output port; and

at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one array of actuated mirrors;

said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

42. An optical switch, comprising:

at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any input port to any output port; and

at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one array of actuated mirrors;

said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

44. An optical switch, comprising:

an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output part.

45. An optical switch, comprising:

an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one input port to at least one output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

46. An optical switch, comprising:

an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any input port to any output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

47. An optical switch, comprising:

at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

48. An optical switch, comprising:

at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one input port to at least one output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

49. An optical switch, comprising:

at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any input port to any output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at east one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

50. An optical switch, comprising:

an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

51. An optical switch, comprising:

an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one input port to at least one output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

52. An optical switch, comprising:

an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any input port to any output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

53. An optical switch, comprising:

at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

54. An optical switch, comprising:

at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one input port to at least one output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

55. An optical switch, comprising:

at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any input port to any output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

56. An optical switch, comprising:

an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said at least one array of actuated mirrors;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

57. An optical switch, comprising:

an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one input port to at least one output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said at least one array of actuated mirrors;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

58. An optical switch, comprising:

an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any input port to any output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said at least one array of actuated mirrors;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

59. An optical switch, comprising:

at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said at least one array of actuated mirrors;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

60. An optical switch, comprising:

at feast one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one input port to at least one output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said at least one array of actuated mirrors;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

61. An optical switch, comprising:

at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any input port to any output port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said at least one array of actuated mirrors;

wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

62. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port; and

(d) at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(e) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

(f) said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

68. An optical switch as recited in claim 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, or 67, wherein said imaging component comprises at least one lens.

63. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one said input port to at least one said output port; and

(d) at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(e) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

(f) said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

64. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any said input port to any said output port; and

(d) at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(e) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

(f) said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

65. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port; and

(d) at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(e) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

(f) said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

66. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one said input port to at least one said output port; and

(d) at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(e) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

(f) said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

67. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port;

(c) at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any said input port to any said output part; and

(d) at least one imaging component configured for positioning said optical beam onto at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(e) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

(f) said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

69. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(e) said optical switch configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam;

(f) said optical switch configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

70. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one said input port to at least one said output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

71. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any said input port to any said output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

72. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

73. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one said input port to at least one said output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

74. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any said input port to any said output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at feast one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

75. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

76. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one said input port to at least one said output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

77. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any said input port to any said output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

78. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

79. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one said input port to at least one said output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

80. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any said input port to any said output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

81. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(g) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

82. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one said input port to at least one said output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(g) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

83. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) an array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any said input port to any said output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(g) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.

84. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from an input port to an output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(g) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from an input port to an output port.

85. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from at least one said input port to at least one said output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(g) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from at least one input port to at least one output port.

86. An optical switch, comprising:

(a) at least one input port;

(b) at least one output port; and

(c) at least one array of actuated mirrors configured for switching an optical beam from any said input port to any said output port;

(d) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific mirror in at least one array of actuated mirrors to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific input port;

(e) wherein said optical switch is configured for a specific output port to receive an optical beam from a corresponding one specific mirror in said at least one array of actuated mirrors;

(f) wherein said optical switch is configured for separating at least one wavelength component in said optical beam from at least one other wavelength component of said optical beam; and

(g) wherein said optical switch is configured for switching said at least one wavelength component from any input port to any output port.