A new software platform by Co-ventor Inc. of Cary, N.C., simplifies the development of microelectromechanical system (MEMS) variable optical attenuators (VOAs) and attenuator arrays. Designed for dense-wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) systems in the wavelength range of 1530 to 1610 nm, it permits the cost-effective building of large-scale dynamic equalizers with 40 or more channels.
The MEMS Development Platform is one of the few automated tools available today for supporting the design of MEMS systems. With this software, designers can use Coventor's optical-shutter array and low-cost fiber attachment to integrate smaller and lower-power optical devices by means of passive alignment (see the photo). Fiber-to-fiber, fiber-to-device, and fiber-to-waveguide connections are possible. Designers no longer must resort to "home-brewed" solutions.
The platform provides a design range of 0 to 60 dB with 0.1-dB resolution, 0.4-dB stability, and 0.1-dB repeatability. Up to 17 dBm of optical power per channel can be accommodated at 30 V dc.
For details, contact Coventor at (919) 854-7500 or www.coventor.com.