Y-branch wavelength-controlled space switch using a twin-guide laser amplifier

A Y-branch wavelength-controlled space switch based on the planar twin-guided laser-amplifier (TGA) is reported. It is noted that future WDM (wavelength division multiplexing) systems presently being evaluated will benefit significantly from advances in the development of wavelength-controlled space switches. The TGA can in principle be operated as either a wavelength-independent or wavelength-selective switch depending on the bias injection currents, a flexibility hitherto unavailable. An additional benefit is the possibility of lossless integration, i.e., the inclusion of several functions such as amplification, space switching, power splitting, filtering and connection to external fibers in one device without (fiber-to-fiber) loss. These devices could give rise to new opportunities in multiwavelength networks, such as the flexible provision of services. Experimental results are presented which show how the TGA can be used as a wavelength-controlled switch which is not sensitive to small (<1-nm) fluctuations in the wavelength of the launched light.<>