9361270 Jewell The principal investigator proposes to develop ruggedized optical array connectors for interconnection of electronic processing modules through parallel fiber ribbon optical backplanes. Computer manufacturers consider optical backplanes an inevitable next step in interconnections and optical connector arrays to be the most needed component. Arrays of vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs) are ideally suited for the transmitters and PRI will utilize its world leadership in this field to optimize VCSELs for optical backplanes. In Phase I we will: 1) specify the performance requirements for the optical backplane components: microlaser arrays, fibers, connectors, detectors; 2) survey the mechanical and micro optic "tools" available for optical connector arrays; 3) design VCSELs for multimode fiber backplanes 4) design connector arrays for the optical backplanes; and 5) develop the Phase II plan for demonstration and commercialization. Assembly of the technical team for commercialization of optical backplane interconnects has begun at PRI and will continue throughout Phases I and II. Optical backplanes are most immediately needed in the avionics industry, hence our program targets an initial high performance avionic computers. The work will also directly impact the development of fiber optical networks for aircraft sensor communication and for local area networks. ***
