Image classification using collective optical modes of an array of nanolasers

Abstract: Recent advancements in nanolaser design and manufacturing open up unprecedented perspectives in terms of high integration densities and ultra-low power consumption, making these devices ideal for high-performance optical computing systems. In this work we exploit the symmetry properties of the collective modes of a nanolaser array for binary image classification. The implementation is based on a 8x8 array, and relies on the activation of a collective optical mode of the array, the so-called "zero mode", under spatially modulated pump patterns. We demonstrate that a simple training strategy allows us to achieve an overall success rate of 98% in binary image recognition.