A novel hybrid optically bistable switch: The quantum well self electro-optic effect device.

We report a new type of optoelectronic device, the self-electro- optic-effect device (SEED) which uses the same GaAs/GaAlAs multiple quantum well material simultaneously as an optical detector and modulator. Using a series resistor and constant bias supply the SEED shows optical bistability (OB) of the recently discovered type which relies on increasing absorption and requires no mirrors.