Polarization encoded all-optical quaternary successor with the help of SOA assisted Sagnac switch

The application of multi-valued (non-binary) signals can provide a considerable relief in transmission, storage and processing of large amount of information in digital signal processing. Optical multi-valued logical operation is an interesting challenge for future optical signal processing where we can expect much innovation. A novel all-optical quaternary successor (QSUC) circuit with the help of semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA)-assisted Sagnac switch is proposed and described. This circuit exploits the polarization properties of light. Different logical states are represented by different polarization state of light. Simulation result confirming described method is given in this paper. Proposed all-optical successor circuit can take an important and significant role in designing of all-optical quaternary universal inverter and modulo arithmetic unit (addition and multiplication).

Research Highlights
► All-optical quaternary successor (QSUC) circuit is proposed.
► Semiconductor optical amplifier -assisted Sagnac switch plays a significant role.
► Four logical states are expressed as different states of polarization of light.
► Simulation result is also given.
► Some complex circuits are also given with QSUC unit.