Time Division Optical Communications in Multiprocessor Arrays

In this paper, we propose an optical communication structure for multiprocessor arrays which exploits the high communication bandwidth of optical waveguides. The structure takes advantage of two properties of optical signal transmissions on waveguides, namely unidirectional propagation and predictable propagation delays per unit length. Because of these two properties, Time Division multiplexing of messages has the same effect as message pipelining on optical waveguides. Two Time Division multiplexing approaches are proposed and the combination of the two is used in the design of the optical communication structure. Analysis and simulation results are given to evaluate the communication effectiveness of the system. A clock distribution method is also proposed to address potential synchronization problems. Finally, feasibility issues with current and future technologies are discussed.