Coreray: Leading Fiber Optic Switch Manufacturer - MEMS & Mechanical Optical Solutions

Product Overview

    The fiber optic switch is a critical component for routing optical signals in multi-channel systems. Coreray presents the 1×16 Multimode Optical Switch (Visible Light) – a motor-driven mechanical switch designed specifically for visible spectrum applications. It seamlessly switches one input to any of sixteen output ports, terminating in a compact 4×4 collimator array with 5mm pitch, enabling direct free-space coupling.

    This mechanical optical switch employs a precision stepper motor (type 20) for reliable and repeatable positioning, ensuring low insertion loss (≤1.5dB) and high isolation (≥35dB) across the entire 380-780nm wavelength range. Housed in a rugged 200×40×32 mm aluminum enclosure with armored pigtails, it withstands demanding environments while maintaining excellent thermal stability. Control is simplified via both RS232 and TTL interfaces, making it easy to integrate into automated test systems, spectral analyzers, or multi-channel imaging setups.

    Whether you need to route light from a single source to multiple detectors or sequentially illuminate different samples, Coreray’s 1x16 visible light optical switch offers a robust, high-performance solution.

Key Features

·         Broadband Visible Light Support: Optimized for 380–780nm; uses 200/220µm multimode fiber (or optional 400/440µm) for efficient high-power transmission.

·         Precision Motor Drive: Stepper motor (20-type) ensures accurate and stable channel selection with <5ms switching time (typical).

·         Unique Collimator Array Output: 4×4 collimator array (16 outputs), pitch 5mm, beam diameter 2mm at 7.5mm distance – ideal for free-space coupling into detectors or optical systems.

·         Integrated Beam Conditioning: Built-in 3mm lens improves collimation and focusing at the output array.

·         Ruggedized Design: 200×40×32mm aluminum housing with armored input (1.5m) and output (0.3m) pigtails; SMA905 input connector for easy light source connection.

·         Excellent Optical Performance: IL ≤1.5dB, RL ≥35dB, Crosstalk ≥35dB.

·         Flexible Control: RS232 + TTL interface for straightforward integration with microcontrollers, PCs, or PLCs.

·         Wide Operating Temperature: -20°C to +70°C; passes temperature cycling test (-40°C to +85°C / 48hr).

Technical Specifications

*Note: Fiber type 400/440µm also available upon request.*

How It Works (Working Principle)

1.    Motor-Driven Optical Path Selection
A control command (RS232 or TTL) drives the stepper motor, which precisely moves an internal mirror or fiber alignment mechanism. This directs the input light beam to the desired output channel among the 16 ports.

2.    Collimated Beam Routing
The input light is first collimated by a lens inside the switch. After passing through the switch engine, the light enters the designated output channel where a 3mm lens focuses it onto the 4×4 collimator array. The array emits free-space beams with a well-defined spot size (2mm @ 7.5mm), simplifying coupling to external optics such as microscope objectives, spectrometers, or fiber bundles.

3.    Multimode Fiber Transmission
Large-core multimode fiber (200/220µm or 400/440µm) is used to maintain high coupling efficiency and handle moderate optical power in the visible range. The armored pigtails protect the fiber in laboratory or industrial settings.

Applications

·         Spectral Analysis & Multi-channel Detection: Perfect for switching light sources or signals in spectrometers, fluorescence microscopes, and multi-channel photodetector arrays.

·         Optical Imaging & Display Systems: Route visible light to different projection paths or illumination arms in custom imaging setups.

·         Visible Light Communication (VLC): Test and route VLC signals across multiple channels in research or prototyping.

·         Research & Optical Benches: Quickly select different optical paths during experiments; ideal for automating measurements.

·         Industrial Vision & Sensing: Switch between multiple inspection points in machine vision systems, or illuminate different areas for quality control.

Why Choose Coreray’s Visible Light Optical Switch?

·         Tailored for Visible Spectrum: Most optical switches are optimized for telecom wavelengths (1310/1550nm). Our switch is specially designed for 380-780nm, guaranteeing low loss and high isolation in the visible range.

·         Array Output Simplifies System Integration: The 4×5mm collimator array directly interfaces with multi-channel detectors or micro-lens arrays, eliminating the need for external fan-out assemblies.

·         Robust Mechanical Design: Stepper motor actuation provides stable, latch-free operation with long lifetime. The armored cables and aluminum housing ensure durability in both lab and field applications.

·         Easy Control & Customization: RS232+TTL interfaces allow quick integration with Arduino, LabVIEW, or industrial PLCs. Custom configurations (fiber type, connector, array pitch) are available.

·         Competitive Lead Time & Support: As a leading optical switch manufacturer in China, Coreray offers rapid prototyping, strict quality control, and responsive technical support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can this switch handle high-power lasers?
A: Yes, the large-core multimode fiber (200/220µm) and free-space design can handle up to several watts of continuous visible light. For very high powers, please consult our engineering team.

Q: What is the switching speed?
A: Typical switching time is <5ms (excluding motor settling). The exact speed depends on the control command and the distance between channels.

Q: Is the output array truly free space?
A: Yes, the output is a 4×4 collimator array that emits collimated beams into free space. You can directly place a detector array, lens, or fiber bundle at the specified distance (7.5mm) to achieve optimal coupling.

Q: Can I get a version with all-fiber outputs instead of free-space array?
A: Yes, custom versions with fiber connector outputs (FC/PC, SMA905, etc.) are available. Contact our sales team to discuss your requirements.

Q: Do you provide RoHS-compliant versions?
A: The standard model is not RoHS certified, but we can offer RoHS-compliant materials and soldering upon request.

Q: How do I control the switch with TTL?
A: The switch accepts simple TTL level signals (5V logic) to select channels. A detailed command table is provided in the user manual. RS232 allows more advanced control and status monitoring.

Ordering Information

To inquire or place an order, please contact 广西科毅光通信科技有限公司 (Guangxi Coreray Technology Co., Ltd.) at coreray@coreray.cn or visit our website www.coreray.com. 

Provide the following information:

·         Product Code: COR-1x16-VIS-MM

·         Fiber Type: 200/220µm (standard) or specify 400/440µm

·         Connector: SMA905 input (standard), array output

·         Any customization (e.g., different array pitch, armored cable length)

We look forward to powering your visible light multi-channel applications with our reliable fiber optic switches.