Abstract: An optical switch having a fixed-position concave reflector, a fixed array of optical waveguides facing the concave reflector, said array including n number of input waveguides for transmitting the optical signal into the switch, and m number of output waveguides adapted to receive the optical signal, and a refractive element located between the reflector and the array of optical waveguides having multiple angular positions for selectively coupling one of the n number of input waveguides with one of the m number of output waveguides, the switch further including an actuator connected to the refractive element for moving the refractive element between angular positions.

Abstract: A continuously variable fiber optic attenuator 10, particularly for attenuating single mode fibers, has means 20 for supporting a section 25 of an optical fiber 24 substantially along the length of the section 25 and means 22 for bending at least a portion of the supported optical fiber section 25 in a controlled manner for attenuating light passing through the optical fiber 24. Preferably, the support means 20 comprises a deformable support means such as a spring 15 or an elastomeric body 71 for supporting the optical fiber 24 as it is bent. Most preferably, the deformable support means supports a section 25 of optical fiber 24 formed in one or more loops around the deformable support means, and the bending means is a plunger 22 movable to an extended position pressing against the support means 20 to bend portions of the loops of optical fiber 24 in a controlled manner.