The CORALIGN™ Difference
The CORALIGN™ portfolio of fiber optic switches utilizes the moving fiber
design concept to achieve direct fiber to fiber connections.
The following configurations are available:
These singlemode fiber optic switches achieve their high accuracy through the use
of the patented precision deflection structure that is at the heart of each optical
switch.
A CORALIGN™ switch physically moves optical fibers to axially align with different
optical fibers. The ability to produce a fiber optic switch void of collimating
lenses, mirrors and the need for alignment fixtures is key to delivering competitively
priced, quality switches. Luminos Industries has developed the custom in-house production
equipment that delivers these results.
It should also be noted that, due to their low cost, these switches should be considered
as a viable alternative for those applications traditionally handled by more restrictive
fiber optic couplers.
Low Losses
The simplicity of the direct fiber to fiber connection through an air or oil filled
gap allow CORALIGN™ fiber optic switches to achieve the lowest insertion losses
in the industry.
The low loss version uses indexing matching oil in the gap to achieve a lower insertion
loss. In certain circumstances such as high power applications, oil cannot be used
in the gap and we recommend using the normal loss version with an air gap.
Wavelength Independent
The elimination of any lenses in the moving fiber design mean the CORALIGN™
optical switch is wavelength independent and can handle any wavelength compatible with the
fiber used.
High Power Application
Another advantage of the CORALIGN™ moving fiber design is that there is no
epoxy or lenses between fibers, making it suitable for high power applications.
Our multimode, normal loss (air gap) switches have been qualified for 500mW hot
switching for 532-1300nm given the recommended voltage and a switching rate not
exceeding 5Hz.
High power applications for other switch types are possible but are subject to additional
qualification. Contact us to discuss your
application and requirements.
Drive Modes
Almost all switches (the center off 1x2 is an exception) have 2 possible "Drive
Mode" options: latching or non-latching. The drive mode is specified by the part
# when ordering and cannot be changed.
Latching Drive Mode
A latching switch requires a short electrical pulse to change state and will maintain
the new state without power.
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Electrical Connectivity
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Pin
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State 1
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State 2
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1
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V+
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V=0
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2
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N/C
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3
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V=0
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V+
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Non-Latching Drive Mode
A non-latching switch is in state 1 with the power off and changes to the state
2 with power on. When power is removed, the switch reverts to state 1.
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Electrical Connectivity
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Pin
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State 1
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State 2
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1
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Gnd
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Gnd
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2
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V=0
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V=0
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3
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V=0
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V+
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