Advanced optical packet switching functions using active vertical-couplers-based optical switch matrix

This paper describes a fully packaged 4/spl times/4 optical crosspoint switch device with its core switch chip based on Bristol's unique active vertical coupler switching technology. Demonstration of several advanced switching functions using this device are described. These include on-chip header/label detection, optically addressed optical unicast switching, optical multicast switching, and packet-level dynamic power equalization. These experiments highlight the unique performance, versatility, and rich application potential of the switch matrix device.