A light cone switch for use in an optical switch system that includes an optical fiber having a first end into which light is directed and a second end that emits light along a diverging path. A light reflector is positioned along this path and is movable toward and away from the second fiber end along the fiber axis. More light is reflected into the fiber when the reflector is near the second end than when it is moved away from that end. A light detector at the first fiber end receives light reflected into and through the fiber and reacts differently to the receipt of high and low light levels. Typically, these different received light levels can be used to turn electrical lights on and off, start and stop motors, control variable devices such as dimmers, etc.