Abstract: The present invention relates to an assembly of multiple waveguides which includes a substrate and a plurality of waveguides positioned on said substrate at locations effective to suppress cross-talk between different waveguides. The plurality of waveguides each comprise an elongate array of quantum dots extending between sets of first and second locations on the substrate. The waveguides are positioned to receive: (1) pumped light uniformly applied to the array to produce electron-hole pairs and to enable optical gain and (2) signal light at the first location to trigger an emission from the quantum dot at the first location and transmission of photons along the array to the second location. A light transmission system which includes this assembly as well as methods of making and using the assembly are also disclosed.

Abstract: A temperature control system is provided for an optical switch including steerable micro-mirrors. The system includes at least one sensor and associated sensing circuitry for measuring the temperature of a micro-mirror or a region of a substrate near a micro-mirror. The system also includes a controller that responds to a signal provided by the sensing circuitry. The controller response may include activating heating or cooling devices the region that is sensed to adjust the temperature of the region.