36-Node Data Vortex Implementation

0.0 Introduction (BAS) This document details the design specifications for the first ever implementation of a complete Dava Vortex optical switching fabric. An introduction to the Data Vortex optical interconnection network topology can be found in the literature [Yang 2000, Yang 2001]. Moreover, previously published works [Yang 2002, Lu 2003, Lu 2004] have required the construction of small subsystems within a Data Vortex topology. Traffic patterns and signal integrity have been simulated extensively [Yang 2002, Small 2003], and the functionality of the Data Vortex node structure has been studied [Yang 2002, Lu 2003]. The primary design discussed implements a Data Vortex topology with the dimensions A=3, H=4, C=3, requiring 26 total switching nodes, and allowing for 12 input and 12 output ports. In addition to this basic structure, a larger system with A=5, H=4, and C=3 is mentioned since it permits 20 input and 20 output ports with 60 switching nodes. Many interesting applications require at least 16 computing elements, and the presented design is easily configured to this larger structure with minimal added complexity. The physical implementation requires numerous subsystems. Each node of course has several optical components, and also requires an electronic control circuit, interfaced by optoelectronic and electrooptic components. In designing all of these interconnected subsystems, numerous features must be considered, all of which are interdependent. Even the physical structure and packaging for such a complicated system must be carefully arranged. Moreover, entire systems are required in order to implement the correct input and output port structure.