Sliding prism switch using planar microlens array

With the growth of optical communications low loss optical fibers, the need for an optical switching system that exchanges optical signals without any opto-electric and electrooptic converter may arise. In this study, an experimental model of sliding prism switch using planar microlens array has been constructed. The performance of the contracted switching device was studied by measuring insertion loss, coupling efficiency and crosstalk. The experiment shows that the measured results of insertion losses that is 6 and 7 dB are greater than the theoretically calculation that is 1.3 dB. The modulated signal has been measured as well; the shape of the signal does not change after passing through the switch and on the other hand the amplitudo of the output signal is lower than the input signal due to the transmission loss. It is concluded that the experimental model of sliding prism demonstrate the potential application of the planar microlens in optical switch device.