Essentially, PICs use photons at the scene of events to process and disseminate information. In a photonic chip, photons pass through optical components such as waveguides, lasers, polarizers and phase shifters.
Advantages of Photon-Based Computing
Faster Speeds: Photons can transmit data much faster than electrons, leading to significantly increased processing speeds. IBM already made a Photonic CPU that is 1000x times faster than traditional CPU's.
Lower Energy Consumption: Photonic devices can potentially operate at lower power levels, reducing energy consumption and heat generation.
Higher Bandwidth: Photonic interconnects can handle much larger amounts of data, enabling more complex and data-intensive applications.
Challenges and Limitations
Technological Hurdles: Developing efficient and scalable photonic components and systems is a complex engineering challenge.
Integration with Existing Infrastructure: Integrating photonic technologies with current electronic systems requires significant research and development. First they will appear in serverlocations and as they get smaller and smaller they will eventualy fit in the computers, laptops and maybe mobile phones of every daily consumer.
Cost: Photonic components can be more expensive to produce than traditional electronic components, potentially limiting their widespread adoption.
The Future of Computin
While photon CPUs are a promising technology, it's unlikely to be the sole solution for future computing needs. Instead, we may see a hybrid approach combining the best of both worlds: electronic and photonic technologies working together to achieve optimal performance and efficiency.
Other emerging technologies that could shape the future of computing
Quantum Computing: Leveraging quantum mechanics for solving complex problems that are intractable for classical computers.
Probabilistic Computing: Uses the physics of the world to compute and predict and uses P-Bits
Neuromorphic Computing: Inspired by the human brain, aiming to create more energy-efficient and intelligent systems.
AI and Machine Learning: Continuously evolving to drive innovation and automation in various fields.
Cnclusion
While photon CPUs are a fascinating development, it's too early to definitively say if they will be the next big thing. The future of computing likely involves a combination of technologies, each contributing to advancements in different areas.