A filter device and method are presented for filtering a multi-channel
randomly polarized light signal to separate therefrom at least one
specific channel. The device comprises a polarizer assembly, and a filter
structure. The polarizer assembly is operable for processing the
multi-channel randomly polarized light signal to split it into two
multi-channel light components of a predetermined polarization identical
for both of said two multi-channel light components; and for processing
two identically polarized light components to produce a randomly
polarized light signal. The filter structure is operable to process said
two multi-channel light components of said predetermined polarization to
select from each of said two light components the specific channel, and
thereby produce two first output light components of the specific channel
propagating through spatially separated first light paths.