Fast, low insertion-loss optical switch using lithographically defined electromagnetic microactuators and polymeric passive alignment structures

A micro-optoelectromechanical switch that combines microactuator technology developed via the Lithographie Galvanformung Abformung process with lithographically defined polymeric alignment elements is described. The multimode optical switch achieves submillisecond switching times, low insertion loss (<1 dB), low cross talk (<70 dB), low voltage (3 V), and wavelength independence.