As the load on communications systems multiplies, optical networks must become far more complex and interconnected. To fully optimize the flow of information along these networks, engineers need flexible and inexpensive ways to route the light. But at least one roadblock stands in the way: the lack of cheap, small, simple switches to direct the light. To help ease the congestion, scientists at Lucent Technologies' Bell Labs have built a tiny optical switch that works like a seesaw.

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