Optical packet switching architectures for distributed computing

We propose that optical packet switching networks are better implemented through space division switching (SDS) approaches than through wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) approaches. We show that active optical networks designed from optically controlled nonblocking networks can provide higher efficiency and lower latency advantages compared to other approaches. Our self-routing optical crossbar network, VIPER+, is realized from locally controlled 2/spl times/2 electrooptic switches that use a simple distributed routing algorithm that avoids input buffering. The switch design is also unique in that it provides solutions to both the network access and conflict arbitration problems optoelectronically. We show the effectiveness of VIPER+ through projected performance using analytical modeling. Finally. We comment on the applicability of VIPER+ network architectures for implementing different switched network standards.<>