Abstract

Optical switch matrices are important devices in communication systems due to their frequency and code transparency. Several such matrices have been demonstrated, most of them, however, exhibiting different levels of blocking. For many systems applications a strictly nonblocking matrix (i.e., one where established signal paths do not need rearrangement when a connection between unoccupied ports is established) is preferable. The busbar structure, shown in an 8 × 8 version in Fig. 1, fulfills this requirement. Any of the eight upper (lower) inputs can reach any of the eight upper (lower) outputs by switching the appropriate cross-point.

© 1986 Optical Society of America