Ultrafast asynchronous multioutput all-optical header processor

We present a novel all-optical header processing technique that can be utilized in all-optical packet switches. The header processor consists of a terahertz optical asymmetric demultiplexer in combination with a header preprocessor that separates the packet header from the packet payload. Experimental results show asynchronous operation of the header processor at a header bit rate of 10 Gb/s in the case of two output ports. This concept can, however, be extended to a larger number of output ports, operates at low power, and allows photonic integration.