The present invention relates to isonitrile compounds, methods of synthesis, and uses in a variety of fields. Consequently, pulse instruction lines for the cooling pulses, power level instruction lines, and corresponding current source within the laser driver can be omitted. Based on the optical input signals, the nonlinear element generates an optical output signal having a binary logic level. A hole is formed in the backplate and a cover having an opening therein is placed over the hole in the backplate. is enabled, compared to about minus 40\xb0 C.