Parallel architecture for a digital optical computer.

A new parallel architecture for a digital optical computer is presented. It is based on a simple dual input array logic with polarization-encoded data planes. The concept is fully modular and relatively few modules are necessary. The programmability is achieved by controllable data path switches. An interconnection module includes the perfect shuffle permutation to provide great computational power. The control module and its memory could be realized by an electronic computer in a hybrid system.