Very low crosstalk 1 x 2 digital optical switch integrated with variable optical attenuators

Abstract

A novel digital thermo-optic switch based on a polymer waveguide has been demonstrated. The proposed switch consists of a conventional 1x2 digital optical switch and compact variable optical attenuators. with both elements: integrated in series. The switches exhibit very low crosstalk values of -42 and -40d8, and the switching power is similar to 170mW at 1.55 mum.