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arXiv · 0906.4721

Optical memory based on ultrafast wavelength switching in a bistable microlaser

Sergei V. Zhukovsky·Dmitry N. Chigrin
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Abstract

We propose an optical memory cell based on ultrafast wavelength switching in coupled-cavity microlasers, featuring bistability between modes separated by several nanometers. A numerical implementation is demonstrated by simulating a two-dimensional photonic crystal microlaser. Switching times of less than 10 ps, switching energy around 15--30 fJ and on-off contrast of more than 40 dB are achieved. Theoretical guidelines for optimizing the performance of the memory cell in terms of switching time and energy are drawn.

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Sergei V. Zhukovsky, Dmitry N. Chigrin. 2009-10-06. Optical memory based on ultrafast wavelength switching in a bistable microlaser. https://doi.org/10.1364/ol.34.003310

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