Optical processor

摘要

An optical processor that incorporates optical computing in a monolithic, i.e. single unit, structure that can take the place of, or operate as a coprocessor with, traditional processor devices such as vector processors, digital signal processors, RISCs, CISCs, ASICs, FPGAs among others. The optical processor incorporates photonic devices that perform algorithmic functions on optical signals. The optical processor takes one or more incoming digital signals, converts the digital signal into an optical signal, performs the algorithmic function(s) in the optical domain, and then converts the result back into a digital signal, all in a monolithic or single unit structure.

主权项

1. A processing system, comprising:
a main processor; and a plurality of coprocessors connected to the main processor, at least one of the coprocessors comprising an optical processor that is a monolithic structure that includes: optical algorithmic function circuitry having at least two inputs that receive input signals into the algorithmic function circuitry and at least two outputs, the algorithmic function circuitry is configured to perform an algorithmic function using optical signals derived from input signals that are input via the at least two inputs and output results in the form of analog signals.