Optically controlled MEM switches

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The present invention alleviates the above-noted problem of providing control lines for an array MEM switches, and provides other benefits as well.
In particular, it provides a mechanism for controlling MEM switches with light, with attendant benefits such as isolation, and indeed remoteness, from a controlling light source.
The present invention provides optical control of MEM switches.
In a preferred embodiment, two DC bias lines are provided to the vicinity of each MEM switch.
On-off control of the switch is then effected by focusing light on the switch substrate.
Under illumination, the photo-conductive nature of the semi-insulated substrate causes voltage loss in a series bias resistor to reduce the DC bias voltage applied to the switch.
The switches may be used in combination to control an antenna array.
Another embodiment of the invention employs a photovoltaic device to provide actuating voltage under illumination, thus obviating all bias lines.