Optical signal delay apparatus and methods

Optical signal delay apparatus and method may delay the progress of an optical signal through a semiconductor structure for a predetermined period of time. An optical delay device comprising a directional coupler and an optical signal loop may be used to delay optical signals. If desired, at least part of a directional coupler in an optical delay device may be formed from electro-optical materials so that the optical signals may be selectively transferred from the directional coupler to an optical Signal loop. Selective transfer may be provided through the application of a voltage. Optical signals with differing wavelengths may be differentiated by using a plurality of optical delay devices that each delay an optical signal having a different wavelength.