Integrated optic matrix-vector multiplier using multifrequency acoustooptic Bragg diffraction

An integrated optic numerical processor performing matrix-vector multiplication in an analog representation is proposed. Parallel processing of a number of numerical products is made in the same area of a substrate by means of multiple Bragg diffraction of multiwavelength optical signals due to multifrequency surface acoustic waves. The wavelength interval of multiplexed optical signals can be 0.77 nm for the optical beamwidth of 3 mm and the acoustic frequency of 1 GHz. Preliminary demonstrations of matrix-vector multiplication are presented with a waveguide type Ti:LiNbO(3) acoustooptic deflector. An alternative processor using one optical wavelength is also described.