All Optical Switching (IMAGE) Eindhoven University of Technology Caption All-optical switching. Data is stored in the form of 'bits', which contains digital 0 (North Poles down) or 1 (North Poles up). Data writing is achieved by 'switching' the direction of the poles via the application of short laser pulses (in red). Credit Eindhoven University of Technology Usage Restrictions Attached pictures can be used by mentioning 'Eindhoven University of Technology' in the credit. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.