Patent ID: 6332051
Filing Date: 2001-12-18
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
An add/drop multiplexer for downloading information of a predetermined wavelength from a plurality of wavelengths, the add/drop multiplexer comprising:a ball lens;a wavelength filter disposed within the ball lens for transmitting the predetermined wavelength, and reflecting the plurality of wavelengths except for the predetermined wavelength;an input port for transmitting the plurality of wavelengths to the ball lens;an output port for transmitting the plurality of wavelengths from the ball lens;a drop port for transmitting the transmitted predetermined wavelength from the ball lens; andan add port for adding the predetermined wavelength to the reflected wavelengths;wherein the input, output, drop, and add ports are arranged about the ball lens such that the reflected wavelengths are transmitted to the output port, the transmitted wavelength is transmitted to the drop port, and the added predetermined wavelength is transmitted to the output port.