The Dicon PM-1X12-13-15-9-FC is a polarization-maintaining 1×12 MEMS optical switch that routes light from a single input fiber to any of twelve output fibers using an electrostatically driven mirror. The device operates bi-directionally, functioning as either a 1×12 switch or 12×1 selector. Non-latching architecture enables precise optical path control across dual-band wavelength ranges with minimal insertion loss and excellent crosstalk suppression.
## Technical Specifications
**Optical Performance**
• Wavelength Range: 1310–1330 nm and 1530–1570 nm
• Fiber Type: 9/125 µm single-mode polarization-maintaining fiber with FC connectors
• Insertion Loss: 0.4 dB typical; 0.8 dB maximum (without connectors)
• Crosstalk: −50 dB maximum
• Back Reflection: −50 dB maximum
• Wavelength Dependent Loss: 0.30 dB maximum across ±20 nm at 23°C
• Polarization Dependent Loss: 0.10 dB maximum
• Extinction Ratio: 18 dB minimum (15 dB minimum with connectors)
• Maximum Optical Power: 500 mW
• Repeatability: 0.02 dB maximum after 100 cycles
• Durability: 10⁹ cycles minimum
**Electrical Specifications**
• Control Interface: I2C and TTL
• Supply Voltage: 12 VDC (5 VDC for TTL control)
• Power Consumption: 170 mW maximum (I2C/TTL); 700 mW maximum (I2C/RS232)
**Environmental**
• Operating Temperature: −5°C to 70°C
• Storage Temperature: −40°C to 85°C
## Key Features
• Non-latching MEMS actuation for deterministic switching
• Dual-band wavelength capability across C- and L-band windows
• Sub-0.4 dB typical insertion loss enables high-fidelity signal integrity
• −50 dB crosstalk isolation suitable for dense wavelength-division multiplexing
• Low polarization-dependent loss maintains signal quality in polarization-sensitive applications
• 10⁹-cycle endurance meets extended-duty-cycle requirements
## Typical Applications
• Optical signal routing in 1550 nm and 1310 nm communication systems
• Wavelength selection and management in test and measurement setups
• Optical sensing and instrumentation systems requiring reliable channel switching
• Multi-channel optical networks with stringent crosstalk requirements
## Compatibility & Integration
The switch integrates I2C and TTL control for straightforward embedded system interfacing. FC connectors ensure standard fiber-optic compatibility. Power requirements are modest, with typical I2C/TTL operation drawing 170 mW at 12 VDC. Temperature operation from −5°C to 70°C supports both laboratory and field-deployed environments.
