Fabry-Perot bistable cavity optimization on reflection

An analysis of bistable Fabry-Perot action in reflection is presented. Optimum values for the cavity reflective coatings and cavity length are determined. Reasons are given why reflection-mode operation rather than transmission-mode operation should be preferred for device applications. Two prototype devices, an all-optical SR (Set-Reset) flip-flop and an all-optical clock, are described.