Abstract

The physics behind interconnection in digital systems argues strongly for the use of arrays of optical devices. System experiments in switching and computing suggest that the devices interconnected should, however, be relatively smart. Otherwise the optics, which excels at global connections, is used inefficiently to make local connection. The smart pixel might have several optical inputs and outputs, performing a relatively complex logical function such as a switching node. Symmetric self-electrooptic-effect devices (S-SEEDs)^1-4. allow parallel arrays of simple logic gates as large as 128 × 256 (Ref. 4). This same technology, without any changes in the processing steps, can produce many other devices and smart pixels, all based on local electrical connection of quantum well diodes. Devices demonstrated include differential modulator arrays, differential logic gates and set-reset latches, multistate devices, switching nodes, an extended logic family consisting of a complete set of analogs of NMOS and CMOS transistor circuits² (recently demonstrated in large arrays³, and spatial light modulators.⁴ Integrations with field effect transistor logic and with silicon integrated circuits are possible extensions of this technology.

© 1991 Optical Society of America