Application of a communication signal, RF (radio frequency) or microwave
signal to a modified optical fiber for modulating or switching-off the
optical signal propagating within the optical fiber. The passive cladding
material of an ordinary optical fiber is removed from a small region and
the fiber is coated with one or more layers of coated materials including
a layer of electrooptic material surrounding the fiber core. A microwave
cavity is positioned around the modified fiber where the optical fiber is
passing through the cavity in the direction of the cavity main axis to
provide a modulating microwave electromagnetic field applied to the
electrooptic material. A communication signal applied to the microwave
cavity will result in optical modulation so that the modulated intensity
and phase of the optical signal at the receiving end of the fiber can be
detected, and demodulation of the signal can be achieved.