Optical bypass switch for fiber-optic data bus systems

A new type of optical bypass switch, installed in multimode-fiber data bus systems, was constructed of graded-index rod lenses and movable mirrors. This four-port component is operated mechanically by a small electromagnet and a spring. It has an insertion loss as low as 1.2 dB and a cross talk <-45 dB. Results of endurance, temperature, humidity, and vibration tests for this switch are reported.