Abstract

A limited number of integrated optics and integrated optoelectronics devices are beginning to emerge from the research laboratory, and numerous other devices are being proposed or investigated by materials and device researchers. It is interesting to explore, somewhat speculatively, how devices of this sort might be employed in practical telecommunications transmission and switching systems. What do these devices bring to the table that would lead to reduced costs and/or new capabilities in providing telecommunications access and transport services? The competition is, of course, conventional electronics, which is not only an established technology but a rapidly evolving technology as well.

© 1986 Optical Society of America