Nonlinear operations of 1.55- mu m wavelength multielectrode distributed-feedback laser diodes and their applications for optical signal processing

The nonlinear behavior of inhomogeneously excited 1.55- mu m wavelength multielectrode distributed-feedback laser diodes, such as self pulsation and multistability for both injection current and for injection light, is described. Wavelength bistability is also described. Optical signal processing applications are experimentally demonstrated; they include optical logic circuits, optical memories, an optical demultiplexer, an optical timing extractor, and optical regenerative repeaters.>