EGS switching networks based on free-space digital optics

Designers of future switching networks (both packet and circuit switches) will encounter many packaging and interconnection problems as data rates and network sizes continue to increase. Free-space digital optics is a new interconnection technology that may circumvent many of these predicted problems by using beams of light to transmit information between integrated circuits. The technology is described, and its advantages are outlined. New network architectures, such as the extended generalized shuffle (EGS) networks, that capitalize on the features of optics are described. A description of the current generation of prototype systems is given to illustrate the current state of the art.< >