Abstract: A reconfigurable liquid crystal based optical add/drop multiplexer system and method are provided which incorporates switching, variable attenuation, and multiplexing/demultiplexing capabilities. In a preferred embodiment, an array of optical rails is provided such that the integration of multiplexing/demultiplexing, switching, and variable optical attenuation functionalities are achieved. The module is also able to perform add and drop functions independently. The system has no moving parts so that the module is durable and very reliable. The system may include a feedback system for performing channel equalization.