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 (EP³IC) 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 bulkoptics implementation. This integrated–circuit solution provides relatively low–power operation, fast switching speed, a compact system footprint, vibration tolerance, and ease of manufacturing.