Systems and methods for performing linear algebra operations using multi-mode optics

A system for performing a linear algebra operation, the system comprising:

• a modulator configured to impose matrix elements onto a chirped optical carrier;
• a multi-mode optic configured to receive the matrix elements imposed on the chirped optical carrier and to output a speckle pattern based on the matrix elements imposed on the chirped optical carrier;
• and
• a processor configured to perform a linear algebra operation on the matrix elements based on the speckle pattern.

An integrated system for performing a linear algebra operation, the integrated system comprising:

• a substrate;
• a laser configured to generate a chirped optical carrier;
• a modulator configured to impose matrix elements onto the chirped optical carrier;
• a multi-mode optic defined within the substrate and configured to transform the chirped optical carrier, having the matrix elements imposed thereon, into a speckle pattern;
• an array of optical sensors configured to be irradiated with the speckle pattern;
• and
• a linear algebra processor coupled to the array of optical sensors and configured to perform the linear algebra operation on the matrix elements based on a representation of the speckle pattern.