Optical beam steering device

An actuator for moving the steering mirror of an optical switch is manipulated during the operation of the switch to route light beams along selected paths through free space. Structurally, the mirror has a reflecting surface area that is characterized by a largest dimension of less than fifteen millimeters, and the actuator defines a footprint within this area. The actuator includes a flexible universal pivot that is used to mount the mirror on a base member. The actuator also includes an electronic device that controls the magnetic interaction between a magnet on the mirror and a magnet on the base to selectively move the mirror on the universal pivot for the operation of the optical switch.