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 micro-mirrors 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.
