Variable optical attenuator using microelectro mechanical mirror

摘要

The present invention provides a method and system for attenuating power in an optical signal. The method includes providing the optical signal to a reflective surface; tilting the reflective surface at a desired angle; and reflecting the optical signal into an optical fiber, wherein the reflected optical signal enters the optical fiber with a misalignment based upon the angle. The method and system utilizes a variable optical attenuator comprising a micro-machined movable support with a mirror coating. An optical signal is transferred onto the mirror coating, which is then reflected back. The movable support may be tilted at a desired angle such that the optical signal is reflected back into an output optical fiber with a controlled variable misalignment. The variable optical attenuator of the present invention is capable of precise and reproducible operation. It is capable of attenuating the optical signal in real time and in attenuating all of the channels in an optical signal simultaneously. Because of its small size, it is extremely rigid and vibration insensitive. Because it has no bulk mechanical parts, it does not wear out.