Abstract: An apparatus and method for switching one or more optical paths comprises one or more inputs and one or more outputs arranged with one or more free-space optical paths formed therebetween, and one or more prisms movable to the free-space optical paths being inserted into or removed from the free-space optical paths to control the propagation paths of one or more light beams between the inputs and outputs. When the prism is inserted into the free-space optical path, a switched optical path between the inputs and outputs is formed to direct the light beam with two refraction and one total reflection by the prism. When the prism is removed from the free-space optical path, the light beam propagates along the free-space optical path.

Abstract: A fiber optic switching apparatus comprises a fiber alignment head with a groove formed therein to mount with a first optical fiber, a switching member adjacent to the fiber alignment head and pivotable between a first position and a second position, and a second optical fiber adjacent to the switching member. The ends of the first and second optical fibers are in alignment when the switching member is in its first position and out of alignment when the switching member is in its second position. The improvement is that the fiber optic switching apparatus further comprises a supporter that is detached from the switching member to connect with the second optical fiber so that the end of the second optical fiber will not fluctuate in connection with the switching member when the first and second optical fibers are placed in alignment within the groove.