Abstract

We implemented part of a multistage switching networkby optically interconnecting three 16 × 8 symmetric-self-electro-opticeffect-device (S-SEED) arrays. The inputs consisted of 64 data and 64 control signals, which were first converted to differential format, fanned out by 2, and then switched through an array of 64, 2×1 switching nodes. The data inputs were generated by a matrix of 64 fibers and identical control signals were sent to all 64 switch nodes by a control laser and an 8 × 8 binary-phase grating. The S-SEEDs have 5×10µm windows on a 20µm pitch, and they were operated as arrays of NAND and NOR gates. Crossover interconnections were used both between and within switch node stages. Logic-level nonuniformity and noise-margin difficulties that were present in an earlier experiment¹ have been reduced, and fully functional, relatively stable operation has been achieved. Details of the architecture, optical hardware, and system performance will be presented.

© 1990 Optical Society of America