An optical microswitch for use with a laser beam comprising a support body
and first and second output fibers carried by the body. An electrostatic
microactuator is carried by the body and extends in a plane. A micromirror
is disposed out of the plane. The microactuator has a mirror holder
coupled to the micromirror and at least one comb drive assembly coupled to
the mirror holder for driving the micromirror about an axis of rotation
extending perpendicular to the plane between a first position for
reflecting the laser beam to the first output fiber and a second position
for reflecting the laser beam to the second output fiber.