Abstract

An optoelectronic matrix switch consists of an interconnected array of photodiodes or photoconductors. In an N × N switch each of N input lightwave signals is divided among a11 of the detectors in a row of the matrix by a passive optical distribution network. A11 of the detectors in a column are electrically connected so that their output signals are summed. Switching action is based on using the detectors bias voltages to switch their responsivities. Connections are made simply by biasing the detectors at the desired crosspoints. High data rate transmission (> 1 GHz) and excellent interchannel isolation (> 60 dB) have been demonstrated in a 10 × 10 switching matrix [1].

© 1996 Optical Society of America