Abstract

The very high speed optical loop architectures that are now emerging for LANs would benefit from access nodes that preserve the transparency of the network and that would be capable of multifunctional operation at high bit rates (1,2.4,… Gb/s). The transparency implies that all functions are based on optical signal processing such as, for example, optical header interpretation or optical synchronization. Achieving all functions in a single monolithically integrated photonic circuit is obviously very attractive but necessitates combining several different devices, such as optical switches, detectors, modulators, and optical amplifiers, on the same substrate. Also, closely spaced high speed electronics are desirable. Monolithically integrated InP photonic circuits specially designed for such access nodes to an optical ring operating at 1 Gb/s will be presented. The integration schemes and the electrical and optical characteristics of the integrated devices will be reviewed and dis cussed in view of the system application.

© 1992 Optical Society of America