Programmable photonic chip controls light speed, boosting optical computing
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Researchers at Seoul National University and the University of Seoul have developed a programmable photonic integrated circuit that can slow light on demand. The chip provides delays, synchronization, and buffering functions essential for practical optical computing, potentially reducing energy use and cost in AI servers and data centers.
The Chip Design
The programmable photonic circuit, developed by Professors Namkyoo Park and Sunkyu Yu at Seoul National University and Professor Xianji Piao at the University of Seoul, controls both the speed and shape of optical signals. Published in Advanced Science, the approach offers greater flexibility over 'slow light' than previous methods. A single chip could replace multiple separate devices, reducing complexity and cost.
Optical Computing Bottleneck
The rapid growth of generative AI and large-scale models has increased demand for computing power, straining conventional electronic semiconductors due to high energy consumption and data transmission limits. Optical computing uses light instead of electrical signals, potentially moving data faster with less power. However, light's fixed speed makes it difficult to delay or buffer signals, a key requirement for memory and synchronization in optical systems.
What's Next
The chip is still in the research phase, with no announced timeline for commercialization. It remains unclear whether the technology can be scaled for mass production in data centers and AI servers.
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Programmable photonic chip controls light speed, boosting optical computing
