Abstract

Digital optical systems demand sufficient signal gain to compensate for fan-out and system losses. Some basic requirements and capabilities of different classes of device and operating technique suitable for planar-array architectures are outlined. Recently proposed techniques^1–3 are included with emphasis on devices which distinguish between controlling and controlled beams¹ [dual-beam devices (DRDS). Thermal effects are also considered, and thermal stability which was demonstrated in a very poorly heat sunk GaAs etalon⁴ is explained.

© 1985 Optical Society of America