Microprocessor-based fiber-optic iterative optical processor.

The design and fabrication of an iterative optical vector-matrix processor are described. Microprocessor feedback is used to produce an iterative processor capable of solving simultaneous linear equations. It also facilitates scaling and biasing of the data and the handling of bipolar and complex-valued data as well as correction for selected system error sources. Fiber-optic interconnections are used to improve the system's alignment and to reduce its size, weight, and errors. The design, fabrication, and performance of the system are analyzed.