Abstract: A 1×N wavelength selective switch which can function as a dynamic channel equalizer when N=1. In an exemplary arrangement, the present invention is a free-space device that includes a linear array of micromachined reflective elements for beam steering of individual wavelength channels. In at least some embodiments the array of reflective elements of the present invention provides a substantially seamless design such that the optical spectrum appears flat across the transition between actuators. Various embodiments provide high channel bandwidth with flat-top channel performance, low polarization dependence loss, low vibration sensitivity, extinction ratios greater than 40 dB over all temperatures, and very low levels of electrical and optical channel cross-talk.

Abstract: An optical tunable filter that includes an tunable acousto-opto deflector (AOD) for deflecting a broad band beam to an expander for projecting the broad band beam to a set of grating for generated a tuned output beam corresponding to a deflection from the AOD and a wavelength resolution of the set of gratings. The AOD further includes an RF driver for tuning the AOD with an RF driving signal. The AOD further comprises a directional tuning acousto-optic crystal. The optical beam expander further includes a first and a second beam expanding prisms that composed of a material suitable for a dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) application over a wavelength range covering S, C and L bands.