Abstract

The use of free-space optics to perform high bandwidth connections for computing applications has been widely discussed in the literature. In this paper we present the practical results of a free-space optical crossbar switch which uses a ferroelectric liquid crystal spatial light modulator as the active switching element. This work has formed part of a collaborative project entitled OCPM which is concerned with developing optical free-space crossbar switching technology for use as the communications fabric for parallel computing systems. The OCPM project (Optically Connected Parallel Machines) is a collaboration between British Aerospace (Sowerby Research Centre), Meiko, BNR Europe, Heriot-Watt University, the University of Bath and Thorn EMI CRL. The project is coordinated by British Aerospace and is funded in part by the DTI and SERC.

© 1993 Optical Society of America