Theory of electron conduction in the double-heterostructure optoelectronic switch (DOES)

Abstract
In this paper a theory is developed for the double heterostructure optoelectronic switching device (DOES). The DOES is a new optoelectronic device in which the optical output can be switched with either an electrical or an optical input. It may be regarded as an LED or laser that has been combined internally with an electrical switching device. The device may be triggered from its OFF-state (high impedance and no emission) either optically or electrically into its ON-state where it emits light and exhibits low impedance. The device therefore has binary electrical states and binary optical states that may be changed by either an electrical or an optical input, or combinations thereof.