Abstract: A wavelength agile optical receiver can be used in an optical equivalent of an "order wire" data communication system. The receiver includes an acousto-optic grating which can be tuned to deflect optical signals received at a particular wavelength by changing a drive signal produced by an acoustic transducer. A multi-wavelength optical signal is applied to the grating. Under "order wire" or quiescent conditions, light at an order wire wavelength is deflected onto a split optical detector. A processor is employed to select control signals for a voltage-controlled oscillator which drives the acoustic transducer. The processor can cause the transducer output to be changed to provide deflection of optical energy at a selectable wavelength onto the detector.