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Topical Meeting on Optical Bistability (OB)

Considerations Involved in the Design of an Optical Digital Computer

Alan Huang

Published Jan 1, 1983• 0 citations
Publisher

Abstract

The prime concern in the design of an optical digital computer is "Why?". Optical bistability is faced with the same question. If optical bistability is to compete with other switching technologies solely in terms of speed and power then its development will be haunted by the constant advances in silicon technology.
DOI
10.1364/obi.1983.fa1

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The nonlinear phenomenon known as optical bistability, which enables optical systems to maintain two stable output states for a single input, is thoroughly examined in this review article. Through a detailed analysis of two important devices—the Simple Fiber Ring (SFR) resonator and the Nonlinear Optical Loop Mirror (NOLM)—it investigates the basic concepts of optical bistability, namely nonlinearity and feedback. Numerical simulations demonstrating dynamic dynamics and stability conditions bolster a strong theoretical framework. Recent advancements in bistable optical technologies, including developments in epsilon-near-zero materials, silicon photonics, hybrid plasmonic structures, neuromorphic photonics, and AI-driven photonic processors are also discussed. Furthermore, this review highlights emerging applications of optical bistability in optical logic circuits, high-speed communication, and quantum information processing. This review work is a useful tool for researchers and engineers creating next-generation optical systems because it connects theoretical insights with cutting-edge technological developments.
This book describes a programme of research at both basic and applied levels on the subject of optical bistability, and the devices that can be derived using the physical principles inherent to this phenomenon. A highlight of the volume is the description of research on giant optical nonlinearities and the realization of the first all-optical circuits, The European Joint Optical Bistability (EJOB) project, whose work is represented in this volume, has successfully demonstrated an all-optical digital circuit in the form of a classical finite state machine. This proves the scientific feasibility of a new family of computers which rival, and which will eventually exceed, the maximum processing capability attainable with electronics technology. These impressive advances are at least on part due to the unique collaboration fostered by EJOB, bringing together Belgian, German, British, Italian, French and Irish scientists. The result is a book capturing the massive potential of European science and technology.