Abstract

We describe a novel four-port (2X2) digital electrooptic switch where the light output exhibits a step-like response to the switching voltage. This response characteristic eliminates the need for precise voltage control for switching and it therefore enables the operation of many such elements by a single voltage source, as required for switching arrays. Moreover, the new device can switch both polarization components simultaneously and is insensitive to the precise wavelength of light. The performance of this switch does not depend critically on any of the design parameters, and therefore it is quite tolerant to variation in the fabrication process.

© 1988 Optical Society of America