All-optical parity generator and checker circuit employing semiconductor optical amplifier-based Mach-Zehnder interferometers

Checking the parity of the data signal during transmission and reception is one way to ensure errorless transmission of data. In this communication the authors propose a method to implement an all-optical parity generator and checker using semiconductor optical amplifier-based Mach-Zehnder interferometers. The scheme, able to process input signals at the same wavelength, is characterized using return-to-zero modulated signals at 10 Gb/s. Correct logic bit sequences and clear open eye patterns with extinction ratios exceeding 10 dB are achieved. Simple structure and potential for integration make this architecture an interesting approach in photonic computing and optical signal processing.