Design of a packet-switched network using optical interference filters (IFs)

A high-speed all-optical multistage interconnection network architecture is presented. A discussion is presented of how emerging optical technology can provide solutions to switching problems which arise in telecommunication and supercomputer systems. The architecture supports packet-switching, and is based on all-optical bistable devices (interference filters), which constitute an essential component of switching units. Various design issues related to optical clock generation, its distribution, data synchronization, intensity restoration, and power requirements are also discussed.<
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