Large modular expandable optical switching matrices

Large optical switching matrices can be assembled incrementally from identical modules by means of a rearrangement of the Clos architecture that we have labeled SKOL. The design retains the strict-sense nonblocking properties of the Clos design, identical units provide economies of manufacture, and there are also cost advantages associated with the incremental expandability. SKOL modules can be constructed in ways that do not map back to the Clos original. In this form, SKOL is a new multistage switching architecture that is well adapted for construction with integrated optical technologies. We anticipate that the SKOL design can provide the very large, expandable optical switching matrices now demanded for optical networks.