Abstract: A multiplexing/demultiplexing system has a multiplexor that includes a first plurality of optical switches having a plurality of outputs and a first plurality of optical delay elements coupled to the optical switches. A source of optical light is coupled to the delay elements, and an optical combiner is coupled to the plurality of outputs and a source of framing pulses. A demultiplexor includes a first and second splitter, and a threshold detector coupled to the first splitter. The demultiplexor further includes a second plurality of optical delay elements coupled to the threshold detector, and a second plurality of optical switches coupled to the second splitter and the second plurality of delay elements.

Abstract: An optical wavelength converter converts an optical input signal having a first wavelength into an optical output signal having a second wavelength. The wavelength converter includes a saturable absorber switch having a control beam waveguide and an input waveguide. The converter further includes a first input coupled to the control beam waveguide and adapted to receive the optical input signal, and a second input coupled to the input waveguide and adapted to receive a second optical signal having the second wavelength from an optical source.

Abstract: A Fabry-Perot optical switch includes a saturable absorber surrounded by a pair of mirrors. Coupled to the saturable absorber is an input waveguide, an output waveguide, and a control beam waveguide. In the absence of light input to the control beam waveguide, the saturable absorber prevents an input signal on the input waveguide from passing through and being output on the output waveguide, thus placing the switch in an “off” state. In the presence of light input to the control beam waveguide and incident on the saturable absorber, the saturable absorber allows the input signal to pass through and be output on the output waveguide, or be reflected and output on the output waveguide, thus placing the switch in an “on” state.