We propose a new label recognition system for photonic label routing network. Binary-coded labels in binary phase-shift-keying format are considered. The system consists of an optical waveguide circuit with tree-structure passive asymmetric X-junctions and time gates. The system uses self-routing propagation of an identifying bit by performing interference with address bits. The identifying bit is placed in advance of the address bits in the label. The identifying bit pulse is routed to the destination output port corresponding to the code of the address. The operation principle is described. It is shown that all the binary number codes can be recognized with this system. We discuss the feasibility of the system by evaluating its crosstalk. To reduce the crosstalk, an improved scheme is also presented. The label recognition operation with the optical waveguide device is verified by numerical simulation using the finite-difference beam propagation method.

We propose a new label recognition system for photonic label switching using self-routing of labels. Binary-coded labels in on-off keying format are considered. The system consists of an all-optical demultiplexer (DeMUX) and an address recognition unit (ARU) consisting of tree-structured switches. The system uses self-routing propagation of an indication bit controlled with address bits. The indication bit is placed in advance of the address bits in the label. In DeMUX, all-optical switches in a configuration of Mach-Zehnder interferometer with semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOA-MZI) are controlled by the indication bit pulse to separate each of the label bits. The indication bit pulse is routed to the destination output port corresponding to the code of the address in ARU. It is shown that all the binary number codes can be recognized with this system. The operation principle is verified by numerical simulation using coupled-mode theory and a rate equation. Moreover, the switching crosstalk is also evaluated.

The application of photonic technologies to packet switching offers the potential of very large switch capacity in the terabit per second range. The merging of packet switching with photonic technologies opens up the possibility of packet switching in transparent photonic media, in which packets remain in optical form without undergoing optoelectronic conversion. This paper reviews recent work on photonic packet switching. Different approaches to photonic packet switching and key design issues are discussed.

The application of photonic technologies to packet switching offers the potential of very large switch capacity in the terabit per second range. The merging of packet switching with photonic technologies opens up the possibility of packet switching in transparent photonic media, in which packets remain in optical form without undergoing optoelectronic conversion. This paper reviews recent work on photonic packet switching. Different approaches to photonic packet switching and key design issues are discussed.