Equivalency-processing parallel photonic integrated circuit (EP3IC): equivalence search module based on multiwavelength guided-wave technology

We present an optoelectronic module called the equivalency-processing parallel photonic integrated circuit (EP(3)IC) that is created specifically to implement high-speed parallel equivalence searches (i.e., database word searches). The module combines a parallel-computation model with multiwavelength photonic integrated-circuit technology to achieve high-speed data processing. On the basis of simulation and initial analytical computation, a single-step multicomparand word-parallel bit-parallel equality search can attain an aggregate processing speed of 82 Tbit/s. We outline the theoretical design of the monolithic module and the integrated components and compare this with a functionally identical bulk-optics implementation. This integrated-circuit solution provides relatively low-power operation, fast switching speed, a compact system footprint, vibration tolerance, and ease of manufacturing.