All-optical multistage interconnection networks are desirable for overcoming the limitations of optical signal regeneration in switching systems. We present a new implementation of the perfect-shuffle interconnection pattern that is coupled with an all-optical switching element, forming a complete stage of a multistage network. Switching is performed with birefringent calcite crystals and a ferroelectric Liquid-crystal device, while interconnection is achieved with a space-semivariant imaging configuration. Cascading the layout allows this system to be used to construct an all-optical multistage interconnection network. An experimental demonstration of the stage is presented. (C) 1998 Optical Society of America. [References: 15]
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