Optical information processing

Realization of associative memory with the aid of a nonlinear selective stimulated-Brillouin-scattering mirror

A. Z. Matveev, G. A. Pasmanik

Institute of Applied Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Nizhnii Novgorod

Abstract: An associative memory using only optical elements has been realized experimentally. The key element of the arrangement is a stimulated-Brillouin-scattering (SBS) selector consisting of a short SBS medium at the focus of a lens. The qualitative advantage of the selector over an SBS mirror is demonstrated experimentally. The response time of the arrangement is ~ 10^–8 s and is determined by the duration of the SBS. Estimates show that the SBS selector is capable in practice of distinguishing a signal against background noise when the initial distortion level of the object beam is 10^–3. Reliable operation of the SBS selector has been demonstrated for radiative and energy loads reaching 2 GW/cm² and 2 J, respectively.

UDC: 681.327.68

PACS: 42.65.Es, 42.79.Bh, 42.79.Ta

Received: 25.09.1992

 English version: Quantum Electronics, 1993, 23:5, 426–431

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