Abstract

Most present day optical computing uses optics only to perform linear transforms, such as imaging and Fourier transformations. Of course, computing requires decision making by various logic operations. These are usually performed by an array of detectors and an electronic computer. Sometimes a matched filter or mask (usually permanent, i.e., not programmable) performs part of the decision making. All-optical logic gates are essential for all-optical computing, and they can be used to reduce the output data rate of special-purpose all-optical processors to a rate compatible with the electronic computers they are assisting. Some of the nonlinear optics concepts and prototype devices which have the potential of performing all-optical logic operations are summarized here.

© 1985 Optical Society of America