Abstract

We describe a novel all-optical regenerative memory where the data pattern is re-imposed onto a separate pulse train after each circulation of an optical fibre delay line. Optical memory is envisaged to be an important function in future ultrahigh-speed photonic networks and processing systems. For example, memory allows 100Gbit/s packets [1] to be buffered and queued for subsequent processing of the data and memory is also an intrinsic function for bit-serial optical computing systems [2]. Several types of optical memory have already been demonstrated such as passive [3,4] and active [5] recirculating fibre loops. In these configurations, the stability of the data pattern depends on being able to retime the optical pulses within the loop since it acts like a long transmission line [6]. In this paper the memory architecture is similar to the optoelectronic scheme described in reference [7].

© 1996 Optical Society of America