Optical memory for storing data
US5740117A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 27, 1997 |
| Grant date | Apr 14, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 27, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG11C21/00
- WIPO fieldOrganic fine chemistry
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The present invention concerns optical memories. Such an optical memory (30) comprises a data line (31) which is optically coupled via a directional waveguide coupler (33) to a circular memory loop (32). In addition, it comprises a pump line (35), which is employed in order to couple a refresh signal into the loop (32). As in case of the data line, the pump line is coupled via a directional waveguide coupler (34) to the loop (32). The counter propagating refresh light pulse provides for an amplification of the light pulse circulating in the memory loop being doped with Erbium ions. The length L of the memory loop (32) is chosen such that the circulation frequency of the light pulse in said loop (32) is equal to the clock frequency of the optical memory (30). The memory provides for individual manipulation of each stored optical bit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.