Issues in the Utilization of Optics for Computation

这项工作的中心目标是调查光学用于计算目的的可能性所涉及的基本问题。两位数数字乘法器是所提议的系统之一，它作为调查主要关注的某些方面的基础--例如，以单一频率执行一种以上运算的能力，或输入与输出的隔离，以及基本运算的净功耗。利用非线性光学法布里-珀罗元件，通过对Goodman-Woody算法的扩展，提出了一种用于两个信号的光学模拟相乘的两位数乘法器。作为这项工作的第二个方面，研究人员提出了一种高斯光束方法来分析可解析的互连地址的数量、串扰的问题程度以及可以利用光折变效应进行的互连的数量。与上述两个领域有关的是适当来源的问题，特别是努力调查产生可见辐射的可能半导体。研究人员已经开始与劳伦斯伯克利实验室的迈克·鲁本合作，研究可能的II-VI化合物。这也为研究使用非线性元件的新材料和结构提供了可能性。

The central goal of this effort is the investigation of fundamental issues involved in the potential for optics to be utilized for computational purposes. One of the systems proposed, that of the two- digit digital multiplier serves as a basis to investigate some of the aspects of primary concern- for instance the ability to carry out more than one operation with a single frequency, or the isolation of the input from the output, as well as the net power consumption is the basic operations. A two-digit multiplier is proposed via an extension of the Goodman-Woody algorithm for the optical analog multiplication of two signals, using nonlinear optical Fabry-Perot elements. As a second aspect of this effort, the investigators are proposing a Gaussian beam approach to analyze the number of resolvable interconnected addresses, the degree to which cross-talk is a problem and the number to interconnections which can be made using the photorefractive effect. Related to the above two areas is the issue of appropriate sources, in particular an effort towards the investigation of possible semiconductors for the generation of visible emission. The investigators have initiated a collaborative effort with Mike Ruben of the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory for the investigation of possible II- VI compounds which would be possible. This also has the possibility of investigating new materials and structures for the use of nonlinear elements.