Optoelectronic cross-bar switching using free-space optical distribution

Free-space optical distribution for a 3/spl times/3 optoelectronic matrix switch in two configurations is demonstrated. Optical splitting is achieved using an integrated refractive-diffractive element which is a compact and mass-producible device. The electrical cross talk is -38.1 dB for the optical-in/electrical-out configuration and -38.3 for the electrical-in/electrical-out configuration. The ON-OFF contrast at the photodetectors is -69.5 dB. These results indicate that such an optical distribution system is more than adequate for high-speed digital switching.