Variable bandwidth of dynamic add-drop filters based on coupling-controlled microdisk resonators

Dynamic add-drop filters with variable bandwidth are demonstrated on microelectromechanical-system (MEMS)-actuated microdisk resonators for what is believed to be the first time. The tuning mechanism is based on a variable power coupling ratio that is controlled by varying the gap spacing between the wave-guide and the microdisk through MEMS actuators. The results show wavelength switching with an extinction ratio of 20 dB and a tunable bandwidth ranging from 12 to 27 GHz. These dual functions were realized using the device with the operation voltage varying between 0 and 35 V. (c) 2006 Optical Society of America.