MCW7: Single-Chip MEMS-Based Optical Crossconnect

The goal of this project is to develop monolithic 1xN wavelength-selective switches (WSS) and NxN wavelength-selective cross connects (WSXC) for WDM networks. The Si-based planar lightwave circuits (PLC) and the MEMS micromirrors are monolithically fabricated on a silicon-on-insulator (SOI) chip. All optical paths are defined by photolithography and no optical alignment is necessary. The WSS and WSXC can be deployed in mesh networks. There is no need for OEO conversion, and they are format and bit-rate transparent.

Project end date: 01/25/07