N X N Integrated Channel Waveguide Optical Crossbars for Large Scale High Speed Non-Blocking Data Switching

The ability to switch data flows between channels quickly, massively, and without blocking usable channels in the process will form the centerpiece of every future computing or communications system. In this project we explore a new concept in high-speed large-scale optical crossbar switching devices, utilizing evanescent-wave couplings between single-mode channel waveguides and electrooptic tunable ring resonators. The wavelength selective switching between the input and the output channel can be achieved by controlled tuning voltages applied to these ring waveguide switches. The proposed crossbar can realize N x N switchings with only 2N switches, and is reconfigurable to any switching pattern, including two-way non-blocking switching and active wavelength division multiplexing and demultiplexing. Additional advantages include large array data switching, high speed (GHz), and the capability for monolithic integration with other integrated optoelectronic components.