Interference Based Micromechanical Spectral Equalizers

We demonstrate an improved micro-opto-mechanical spectral equalizer with more than 20 dB dynamic range over a 42 nm spectrum, less than 8 dB loss, reduced drive voltage, and a ruggedized opto- mechanical package. We also describe a high-resolution gain dynamic equalizing filter. It uses low voltage (15V) micro electo-mechanical interference devices, which have been segmented to relive stress. It achieves greater than 20dB dynamic range with an insertion loss of 8dB. We present results of the equalizers operation with an erbium fiber amplifier to provide spectral equalization. Feedback from a tap on the output was used to control a micro-mechanical equalizer located between two gain stages of a conventional C-band amplifier. The amplifier maintained 1 dB gain uniformity as the input power varied by 10 dB from the design level.