All-optical set-reset flip-flop operation in the nonlinear Fabry-Pérot interferometer

Nguyen Le Hoang

Bruce J. Bartholomew

John H. Marburger, Susan Davis Allen, E. Garmire +2 more

Alireza Bahrampour, Mohammad Karimi, M.J. Abolfazli Qamsari +2 more

Brian S. Wherrett

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.

Marc Haelterman, Paul Mandel

A recent modal theory of nonlinear planar resonators is applied to the analysis of the steady transmission characteristics of the two-beam nonlinear Fabry-Perot interferometer. An analytical study, based on the planewave approximation, is presented that shows the potential applications of the device. In particular, a flip-flop mode of operation, derived from a pitchfork bifurcation, is predicted. Its salient feature is to require only positive triggering pulses.