Abstract: An all-optical, asynchronous binary storage cell implemented by optically induced total internal reflection cross-junction waveguide switches. The term “all-optical” refers to directing of optical data signals as a result of optical control signal inputs without the need for conversion between optical and electrical domains. The binary cell is a building block for a programmable all-optical random access memory (AORAM) device. The AORAM device enables circuits and networks that require optical buffers.

Abstract: Optical apparatus and optical switching methods that provide optical high data rate switching at a wavelength or packet level using optical tone addressing. Optical signal routing is a result of optically induced total internal reflection at the intersection of an X-junction waveguide structure. The total internal reflection effect is controlled by a high intensity optical pump beam separate from the optical data signal. Total internal reflection may result from a free-carrier induced change in refractive index, which is a nonlinear effect found in common III-V semiconductors and selected polymers. Optical switching networks may be formed using cascaded pluralities of optical waveguide switches.

Abstract: Fiber-to-the-home communication systems and methods that use coarse wavelength-division-multiplexed (WDM) channels for upstream data traffic to increase the dedicated upstream data rate for each subscriber to greater than 10 Megabit/sec. Data for upstream transmission from the subscriber to a first location (central office) quadrature amplitude/phase shift key modulates a unique microwave carrier frequency. The modulated carrier frequency containing the upstream data intensity modulates the optical output of a laser operating at a unique optical wavelength. The subscriber optical signals at the second locations are combined and optically transmitted to a photodetector at the first location. The photodetector produces a composite microwave spectrum including all subscriber quadrature amplitude/phase shift keyed data spectra and low and high frequency inter-subscriber cross products.

Abstract: Optical apparatus and optical switching methods that provide optical high data rate switching at a wavelength or packet level using optical tone addressing. Optical signal routing is a result of optically induced total internal reflection at the intersection of an X-junction waveguide structure. The total internal reflection effect is controlled by a high intensity optical pump beam separate from the optical data signal. Total internal reflection may result from a free-carrier induced change in refractive index, which is a nonlinear effect found in common III-V semiconductors and selected polymers. Optical switching networks may be formed using cascaded pluralities of optical waveguide switches.