The first prototype of the free-space accelerator for switching terabit net
works (FAST-Net) program is described. The optical interconnection module c
onsists of an array of matched high-resolution, wide-angle (f/1.1) imaging
lenses that effect a global point-to-point shuffle link pattern across a mu
ltichip smart pixel array. A mirror is used to fold the shuffled links back
onto the array to facilitate single-plane multichip packaging and simplifi
ed opto-mechanical alignment. The test system incorporates several monolith
ically integrated two-dimensional arrays of vertical-cavity surface-emittin
g lasers (VCSELs) and photodetectors (PDs) in the multichip plane. In initi
al experiments the prototype showed good overall optical efficiency and suf
ficient channel separation for VCSEL/PD arrays with pitches as small as 100
mu m. These results suggest that high bisection bandwidth optical free-spa
ce interconnection fabrics are feasible for high-throughput switching and m
ultiprocessor applications.