A Monolithically Integrated Optical Gate 2x2 Matrix Switch Using GaAs/AlGaAs Multiple Quantum Well Structure

Abstract

A small size matrix switch is desired for constructing large scale optical switching systems. An optical gate matrix switch which consists of optical splitters, combiners and gates has advantages of its simple construction and ability of non-blocking and point-to-multipoint connections. So far this kind of switch (1) was hybrid and it seemed difficult to interconnect optical gates with optical circuits.