ABSTRACT
An overview of neural network implementations using optics is presented in this section. To begin with, the motivations for using optical hardware are introduced. Some of the core techniques are described, and the suitability of particular neural network algorithms to optical implementation is discussed. For the nonspecialist reader, relevant basic optical physics is briefly reviewed, and the operation of the principal optical devices and techniques in use is described. Following this are a profile of major recent demonstration systems and innovations and some final comments.
