Multiterabit-per-second all-optical switching in a nonlinear directional coupler

In using numerical methods, we demonstrate all-optical soliton-like switching and self-routing of ultrashort (subpicosecond) optical pulses in a nonlinear directional coupler. As new modulation formats are introduced for high bit rate communications systems, all-optical switching techniques must be used that can operate at multiterabit-per-second rates.