Digital Optical Circuit Switches and Switching Matrices in Polymers

Abstract

Summary We discuss and compare different designs of digital optical switches (DOS) in polymers utilizing the thermo optical effect (y-branched DOS, three branched DOS, DOS cascade with partially merged switching stages, DOS with integrated attenuators) with respect to their applicability in switching matrices and their crosstalk (CT) performance. The underlying oversized rib waveguide concept is also briefly discussed with emphasis on the integration of absorbers. Finally we present results for an optimized matrix switch design.