Optical interconnect

PCT No. PCT/GB97/00430 Sec. 371 Date Apr. 13, 1998 Sec. 102(e) Date Apr. 13, 1998 PCT Filed Feb. 14, 1997 PCT Pub. No. WO97/31280 PCT Pub. Date Aug. 28, 1997An optical interconnect is formed form a series of coaxially aligned lenses. The lenses are spaced apart along a planar substrate and form repeated images of an optical array at the input to the interconnect. Outputs ports are located at different points along the interconnect. Each of the pair of lenses enclosing one of the repeated images is formed as a single physically integral member. This member may take the form of a transparent rod having spherical end surfaces. Each of the spherical end surfaces then provides one of the pair of lenses.