Intrinsic optical bistability in 'compensated' hetero-n-i-p-i superlattices

A scheme for intrinsic optical bistability and switching in semiconductor heterostructures is proposed. The scheme does not require any external optical or electrical elements and possesses advantages of both the self-electrooptic effect device and doping superlattices. The switching properties of the proposed device are theoretically analyzed, and conditions for bistable operation are determined.<
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