1990-05-10
1992-08-04
James, Andrew J.
357 16, 357 17, 357 30, H01L 2974, H01L 29161, H01L 29205, H01L 3300
Patent
active
051363534
ABSTRACT:
The present invention relates to an optical switch which will generate and emit a beam of light when an optical signal is directed therein, but includes means to inhibit the generation of the beam of light when a second optical signal is directed therein. The switch includes a light emitter formed of a plurality of layers of alternating opposite conductivity type which is adapted to generate the beam of light when an optical signal is directed therein. A photovoltaic inhibitor is connected to the emitter so that any current generated by the inhibitor is applied across the emitter in a manner to prevent the generation of the light in the emitter. The photovoltaic inhibitor generates the current when a second optical signal is directed therein. Depending on the external circuit, the device can be operated in either a digital (bistable) or analog mode.
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Pankove Jacques I.
Radehaus Christian V.
Cohen Donald S.
Hancock Earl C.
James Andrew J.
Jr. Carl Whitehead
The University of Colorado Foundation Inc.
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