The development of computing technology and electronics in general has started with analog circuits and then at a later point advanced to digital circuitry. In the last decade, researchers have been pursuing the development of computers based on optical technology. Here too, the initial work was in the analog state and later, digital implementations appeared. Currently, virtually all work is directed to building a digital equivalent of the electronic digital processors. This is probably a mistake as it fails to take advantage of the strengths of analog optical computing (AOC) and forces an "unnatural" architecture in the area of digital optical computing. (DOC). The world is, of course an analog domain. Digital electronics has remained largely in the architecture dominated by Boolean algebra and the Von Neumann architecture. Granted, there have been multi-state logic systems and there are several interesting parallel architectures, but the vast majority of digital electronics is Boolean and Von Neumann in nature. Analog techniques offer an infinite number of possible states, but require a different mindset in their design and implementation. Consider the case of "Fuzzy Logic". This is a digital attempt at analog processing. All attempts at moving away from this paradigm have been frustrating at best.

Hudson Research Inc has been involved with the development of Optical computing technology and the concurrent development of enabling devices and technologies for over a decade. Innovations such as the Electro-Optic Spatial Filter, the 2D Spatial Light Modulator and the Variable Electro-Optic Mirror provide the fundamental building blocks for both analog and digital optical computing technologies. Hudson Research is in the process of establishing a foundry capability to ensure a reliable continuous supply of these devices to serve this emerging market. Our advanced design and simulation capabilities are available to assist you in entering this exciting technology. CONTACT US