Perspectives for optical data processing and communication systems using optical thyristors

Hugo Thienpont

doi:10.1117/12.2299088

1 September 1996 Perspectives for optical data processing and communication systems using optical thyristors

Hugo Thienpont

Proceedings Volume 2778, 17th Congress of the International Commission for Optics: Optics for Science and New Technology; 27785P (1996) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2299088
Event: 17th Congress of the International Commission for Optics: Optics for Science and New Technology, 1996, Taejon, Korea, Republic of

Abstract

The optical thyristor differential pair is a promising device for digital optical information processing. This bi- stable optoelectronic switch is usually implemented as a double-heterojunction PnpN structure in the GaAs/AlAs material system. In the off-state, it has a high impedance, while in the on-state, it is conductive and emits light perpendicularly to the surface with the emission characteristics of a LED. Recently experiments have been conducted by a joint research team of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel and the Interuniversity Micro- Electronics Centre (IMEC) to transmit information between adjacent pairs of thyristors on the same wafer, demonstrating cascadability. Transcription rates of 50 MHz at 7.2 fJoules optical input energy for an optical window area of 20 x 30 lim2 have been obtained [1]. The latest designs allow operation of the thyristor pairs at 3.3 V levels which makes it possible to integrate these devices with silicon VLSI circuits and to consider the development of smart pixel type elements with enhanced functionality.

Citation Download Citation

Hugo Thienpont "Perspectives for optical data processing and communication systems using optical thyristors", Proc. SPIE 2778, 17th Congress of the International Commission for Optics: Optics for Science and New Technology, 27785P (1 September 1996); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2299088

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