Optoelectronic logic devices implemented on GaAs photodetectors

Abstract

Optoelectronic exclusive-OR and exclusive-NOR gates have been demonstrated with a device structure incorporating a composite pair of GaAs photodetectors. Special optical pulse trains were constructed to test the functionality of the logic units. Electrical output from the devices was used to drive a pre-biased laser diode to produce an optical output signal. A time response faster than 400 ps with an on-off contrast ratio of 19 dB has been obtained. In addition, a 2 to 4 decoder was proposed as a means for high speed optical addressing.<>