An optical switch architecture for Manhattan networks

An electronically controlled optical packet deflection switch that is based on space and time switching at intermediate nodes is described. The switch uses optical delay lines to store and switch packets in the optical domain so that optical bandwidth can be achieved across the network. The optical switch is controlled by an associated electronic mechanism that provides the necessary versatility and processing power. This approach combines the advantages of the optics and the electronics. The use and performance of the switch are demonstrated in the context of the Manhattan deflection network