Abstract

We present simulations of an optical memory array based on a unidirectional ring cavity partially filled with a fast nonlinear medium. The spontaneous occurrence of spatial solitary waves in such resonators (pumped by Gaussian beams) has already been predicted by numerical simulations¹ and analytic studies.² We have shown the feasibility of using these robust attractors as a basis for binary memory through a comparative study of the two signs of nonlinearity in a two-pixel (whole- beam switching) configuration and with a 19-bit (part-beam switching) solitary array. Gaussian beams can be encoded in their asymptotic solitary basis in just a few cavity transits and subsequently retain this information perfectly over many thousand round trips suggesting a strong candidate for nonlinear memory elements. No material pixellation has been included and, instead, straightforward all-optical nonlinear channeling defines each pixel site.

© 1989 Optical Society of America