Abstract

Optical computers may be constructed from memory, logic, and interconnection modules.¹ A module is proposed in which the output of a spatial light rebroadcaster (SLR) is fed into an image intensifier, followed by an optically addressable liquid crystal light valve (LCLV). Experimental characterization of the devices is provided. The cascadability of the module is demonstrated experimentally. First, an 8 × 8 array is stored onto the SLR by writing the argon light. Later, infrared is used to read out the stored pattern from the SLR. The orange output is amplified by the image intensifier and the output of the image intensifier illuminates the photoconductive side of the LCLV. Argon light reads the information off the other side of the LCLV. The output pattern is seen to be identical to the original input. Storage is provided by the SLR and gain by the image intensifier and the LCLV. The LCLV also converts the frequency back to the original frequency for cascadability. The module is acting as a memory module or buffer that permits synchronization for a computing system. Further, two inputs may be merged using a polarizing beam splitter to provide a parallel logic module for performing OR or NOR. The module may be combined with an interconnection module to permit the construction of a digital optical computer.

© 1991 Optical Society of America