3D spatial switching stage with holographic-optical free beam linking networks

To meet the present-day need for capacious links for signal transmission between individual processing units in the interests of optimum shaping of the overall system, optical link technology can make a great contribution. The possibilities of implementation of this technology have been examined in the context of the Photonik I co-operative research programme, and a spatial switching stage has been built for purposes of demonstration. The results and further developments in prospects are summarised.