Low-loss MEMS optical switches

High-performance MEMS optical switches with low insertion loss (~0.6–0.7 dB) are available directly from manufacturers like Agiltron, Thorlabs, Sercalo, MEISU, and GLSUN.

Key Manufacturers and Offerings

Agiltron offers MEMS-based optical switches with low loss (~0.6 dB), high on/off ratio (>70 dB), bidirectional polarization insensitivity, and ultra-high reliability. Their 1D motion MEMS mirrors provide low crosstalk and fault-safe latching, while 2D rotating mirrors are cost-effective for 1xN or MxN configurations when N>8. Agiltron supports wide operating temperatures (-40°C to 85°C) and vacuum operation, with turnkey modules and customer solutions available . Thorlabs provides MEMS single-mode switches with insertion losses <0.7 dB (except specific wavelengths), suitable for OEM integration. These switches are non-latching, available with FC/PC or FC/APC connectors, and packaged for easy PCB mounting. They cover multiple wavelength ranges (480–1625 nm) and include drive circuits compatible with 5 V DC power supplies . Sercalo specializes in MEMS optical switches for network supervision and optical test and measurement, offering ultra-small insertion loss, long-term stability, and solid-state reliability. Their product lines include coaxial switches (up to 1x48 ports), fast optical switches (up to 1x32 and 2x2), and miniature switches (1x2, 2x1, 2x2), with options for single-mode, multimode, specialty, and polarization-maintaining fibers. Sercalo manufactures MEMS chips in-house, ensuring high quality and performance . MEISU provides MEMS optical switches with low insertion loss and high repeatability, ideal for channel blocking, instrumentation, and fiber sensing systems. Their switches operate by rotating MEMS mirrors to achieve precise optical routing . GLSUN manufactures MEMS 1xN optical switches with low insertion loss, fast switching speed, compact size, and reliable quality. They also offer customized solutions for fiber optic circuit integration or construction, supporting mechanical, MEMS, and magneto-optical switch designs .

Considerations for Selection

• Insertion Loss: Look for switches with <0.7 dB for minimal signal degradation.
• Switching Speed: MEMS switches typically offer fast response suitable for dynamic optical networks.
• Latching Options: Depending on application, choose latching or non-latching switches.
• Fiber Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with single-mode, multimode, or polarization-maintaining fibers.
• Environmental Tolerance: Consider operating temperature range and vacuum compatibility for specialized applications.
• Customization: Many manufacturers provide tailored solutions for specific port counts, fiber types, or integration requirements. For direct procurement, contacting these manufacturers via their sales or technical support teams is recommended to discuss custom configurations, pricing, and turnkey solutions.