Performance comparison between multiple-quantum-well modulator-based and vertical-cavity-surface-emitting laser-based...

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Photonics
• Integrated Circuits

Background:

• Smart pixels are crucial for high-speed optical information processing.
• Multiple-quantum-well modulators and VCSELs are key technologies for smart pixel development.
• Performance metrics like switching speed, power consumption, and throughput are critical for practical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the performance of modulator-based and VCSEL-based smart pixels.
• To analyze design flexibility and optical implementation advantages of each smart pixel type.
• To evaluate their suitability for high-throughput optical computing.

Main Methods:

• Designed optoelectronic circuits with GaAs field-effect transistors for both modulator and VCSEL smart pixels.
• Evaluated optical switching power, switching speed, and electric power consumption.
• Assessed maximum throughput under conditions of optical threshold and gain.

Main Results:

• Both smart pixel types achieved a maximum throughput of approximately 3 Tbps/cm(2).
• Modulator-based pixels offer greater design flexibility, allowing reduced switching times with increased power.
• VCSEL-based pixels simplify optical implementation by eliminating the need for external bias-light sources.

Conclusions:

• Modulator-based smart pixels provide superior design flexibility for high-speed operation.
• VCSEL-based smart pixels offer advantages in optical implementation simplicity.
• The choice between modulator and VCSEL smart pixels depends on specific system requirements, balancing design flexibility against optical implementation ease and power consumption.