Demonstration of super-fast communication technology using light

Researchers at the University of Colorado-Boulder have successfully demonstrated the world's first microprocessor that uses light to create super-fast communication speeds.

Accordingly, scientists have successfully combined electron and photon components into a microprocessor to create a new breakthrough in light-based photonic microprocessors that allow for super-fast data transmission compared to today's electronic technology. A new chip can achieve data transmission speeds of 300 Gbps per square millimeter, 10-50 times faster than conventional electronic microprocessors. In addition, light microprocessors also consume less energy, and can transmit data over longer distances without consuming additional energy.

The photonic microprocessor chip is illuminated by blue and red light bars.

While the concept of optical computing is still relatively new, the researchers say they have already demonstrated practical implementations. Photonic data transmission is performed on a single chip that integrates many traditional electronics, so it can theoretically interface with other standard electronic components and be integrated into existing manufacturing processes.

Currently, the microprocessor prototype in the lab is not yet complete and truly powerful because it only has 2 chip cores. However, researchers hope that this will be the premise for creating chips with much faster computing speeds.

According to XHTT