Abstract

Optical interconnection starts with inherent cost disadvantages compared with electrical interconnection. These range from the additional cost of devices for electro-optical conversion to the difficulty of making optical waveguide connections with micron tolerances compared to easier mechanical and solder connections in electronics. Optical solutions can compete only on high-end, high performance systems in which the costly portions of optics become less-expensive than comparable solutions in electronics due to speed, density, congestion, noise, or distance. Examples of where continuing innovation is allowing optics to compete successfully will be highlighted for passive interconnection and parallel interconnection along with prospects for free-space interconnection.

© 1995 Optical Society of America