Optical alignment between a communication optical fiber and an optical
device is achieved by using a substrate including a fiber-holding channel
formed in the top surface of the substrate. The channel is particularly
formed to include a central fulcrum region, against which the fiber is
pressed into as the fiber-to-device alignment is performed. In particular,
the fulcrum functions as a pivot point to allow for the free endface of
the fiber nearest the optical device to be adjusted (performing a "fine"
adjustment) by manipulating the opposing end of the fiber (using a "gross"
movement) until alignment with the optical device is achieved. A reduction
of, for example, 14:1 between the gross movement and the fine adjustment
can be achieved by using the inventive fulcrum structure.
