Use of a free space electron switch in a telecommunications network

A communications system for transmitting a signal from one location to another location on a series of communications links, said system comprising:

• a plurality of switching offices interconnected by the communications links, each communications office including at least one free space electron switch, said at least one free space electron switch receiving the signal on one of a plurality of input channels coupled to the switch, said switch including a plurality of emitters and a detector array including a plurality of detectors, each emitter including a cathode where the cathode of a selected emitter receives the signal and emits an electron beam in response thereto, said selected emitter further including an aiming anode positioned relative to the cathode and aiming the electron beam to one of the detectors in the detector array, said electron beam traveling through free space from the cathode to the detector;
• and
• a communications terminal in signal communication with the links and the at least one switch, said communications terminal receiving the signal from the switch.

A free space electron device for transmitting a communications signal comprising:

• at least one cathode responsive to an input signal, said cathode converting the input signal to a beam of electrons;
• and
• a detector array including a plurality of detectors, said electron beam being directed through free space from the cathode to one of the detectors, said detector outputting a modulated communications signal.