Author_Institution :
AT&T Bell Labs., Naperville, IL, USA
Abstract :
The use of hardware that exploits the interplay of photons and electrons to switch voice, data, and video is discussed. The two directions being taken by current research-guided-wave and free-space photonics-are examined. Photonic time-slot interchanges are described. Multidivisional fabrics, based on a combination of space-division and time-division multiplexing, are considered, as is the wavelength-division-based photonic packet switch, another kind of multidimensional fabric. The use of self-electrooptic effect devices, (SEEDs) is discussed.<>
Keywords :
electro-optical devices; multiplexing equipment; optical switches; optical waveguides; packet switching; time division multiplexing; data switching; free-space photonics; guided-wave photonics; multidivisional fabrics; photonic time-slot interchanges; self-electrooptic effect devices; space-division multiplexing; time-division multiplexing; video switching; voice switching; wavelength division packet switching; Bandwidth; Bit rate; Directional couplers; Fabrics; Hardware; Laboratories; Optical attenuators; Optical fibers; Photonic integrated circuits; Telecommunication switching;
