In a groundbreaking technological leap, Chinese scientists have unveiled the world's first ultra-high parallel optical computing chip. This innovation boasts a theoretical peak computing power of 2560 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second) at a 50 GHz optical clock speed—pushing the boundaries of what modern processors can achieve.
The breakthrough comes from researchers at the Shanghai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences. By using a novel design that employs over 100 wavelength channels, the chip processes data simultaneously through different light wavelengths. Think of it as transforming a single-lane highway into a superhighway for digital information! 🚀
Engineer Han Xilin explained that this ultra-parallel photonic computing architecture, enriched by soliton microcomb sources, dramatically boosts computing power without necessitating a larger chip size or higher frequency. The implications are vast, from enhancing artificial intelligence and data center performance to powering advanced neural networks and even drone swarms with low latency requirements.
Published as a cover paper in the journal eLight, this study not only marks an exciting milestone in optical computing but also promises a future where integrated chip technologies redefine data processing and innovation in various high-tech fields.
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China builds world's first ultra-high parallel optical computing chip
cgtn.com
