Network Application of Piezo-Crystal

"High performance fiberoptic switches are in great demand for use in the information super-highway and modern defense systems. Current fiberoptic switches do not simultaneously meet the requirements of high speed, low loss, high extinction ratio, and highreliability. Based on a successful phase I program, Agiltron Corporation proposes to further develop a novel solid-state 4x4 cross-connect switch, using newly available crystal materials of exceptionally large electrically induced response. The proposedfiberoptic switch has leading edge performance attributes which include solid-state high speed operation, polarization insensitivity and low insertion loss, as well as crystal ruggedness for high optical power handling and long term stability. The designeliminates the need for mechanical movement, organic materials, and waveguides which introduce intrinsic drawbacks. Moreover, the design is simple, compact, and very cost effective. It is anticipated that state-of-the-art performance in several keyspecifications can be achieved through this program. These include high data rate, low optical insertion loss, wide temperature range, high optical power handling, high stability, and cost effectiveness. The success in this program will lead to manyapplications for both military and commercial systems."