Interference Based Micromechanical Spectral Equalizers

We demonstrate an improved micromechanical 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 opti-mechanical package. We also describe a high-resolution gain dynamic equalizing filter. It uses low voltage (15V) micro electromechanical interference devices, which have been segmented to relieve stress. It achieves greater than 20 dB dynamic range with an insertion loss of 8 dB. 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 electromechanical 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.