Abstract
This chapter discussed three important types of optical switching devices: ultrafast all-optical switches based on nonlinear optical effects, fast electro-optic modulators, and massive parallel switching devices using microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). While the speed of these switches is still slow, they can form large arrays in a compact unit and be used in networks with massive parallel connections. There are several ways to control an optical switch, and the performance of the switch largely depends on the control mechanism. Ultrafast optical switches are nonlinear Fabry-Perot etalons, nonlinear directional couplers, and nonlinear optical loop mirrors. Fast electro-optic modulators are essential devices to convert electrical data into optical ones in optical communication systems. These devices are made by using an electrical pulse to induce a dielectric change in the medium through which the (carrier) optical signal is to pass. MEMS optical switches are optomechanical-switching devices using micromechanical and optical elements. These elements are fabricated using micromachining techniques, and the switches are usually actuated electrostatically.
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