Comparing Opto-Mechanical and MEMS Fiber Optical Switch Technologies
Selecting the right underlying technology is one of the most important decisions when specifying switching equipment for a network. A fiber optical switch can use several different mechanisms to redirect light, each offering distinct advantages depending on the application. Understanding Opto-Mechanical Switch Operation Opto-mechanical switches physically move fiber or optical components to redirect the light path between different ports. This approach has a long track record of proven reliability, making it a common choice for applications where long term dependability matters more than absolute speed. Reliability Advantages of Mechanical Designs Because opto-mechanical designs have been refined over many years of deployment, they typically offer well understood failure characteristics and predictable long term performance, giving network engineers confidence when specifying this technology for critical protection applications. Speed and Size Tradeoffs While reliable, opto-mech...