An optical switch is one that allows optical fiber signals or any other IOC (integrated optical circuit) to be switched from one circuit to another when chosen.
Optical switches can be used for applications requiring high speed positioning up to 3600 rpm. Optical switches for connecting storage networks over long distances are coming to mainstream enterprises this spring.
Optical networking switches are used to disconnect and reroute fiber optic communications. Optical switches separate different wavelength signals and direct them to different ports.
Optical switches are different than regular switches because they are much faster. With the use of these faster services you are going to pay more money.
Optical switches are most commonly used in fiber optic testing. Most optical networks are quite large so the need to move the packets over quickly is an important detail.
Optical switches exist today, but they have to convert optical beams to electrical current, then convert those back into optical signals.
Optical networking switches are faster than regular switches but also more expensive. Fast optical switches that use different technology are also an option.
With the growth of the telecommunication industry optical networking and optical switches are more relevant now than ever. The industry is going to continue growing and the need for speed will also continue.