The rise of MEMS switches in electronics

What happened

The article explains that MEMS (micro-electromechanical systems) switches are gaining popularity in AI-driven optical networks, datacentres and other areas, and are considered a reliable replacement for semiconductor switches. Optical MEMS switches (optical circuit switches, OCS) route light signals directly via micromirror arrays, eliminating optical-electrical conversion and saving datacentre cost and power, and come in 2D and 3D types; RF MEMS switches come in ohmic (DC contact) and capacitive types and can replace PIN diodes and FETs. The article states MEMS switches are 90-95% smaller than semiconductor counterparts. Limitations noted: switching is microseconds slower than semiconductor switches, they require high actuation voltage, moving parts may wear, and they must be sealed against moisture; efficient MEMS switches remain in the research and development phase across enterprises and vendors, and commercialisation for AC/DC high-power handling systems is still awaited. The article contains no price, output or order data.

Impact and signal

Affected components and suppliers

Source and time

Source: Electronics Weekly · 10/20/2026 · View original source