The Government of India is supporting photonic chip research for next-gen computing.
What Are Photonic Chips?
- Photonic chips are advanced microchips that use light (photons) instead of electricity (electrons) to process, transmit, and store data.
- Unlike traditional electronic chips, which rely on transistors and electrical circuits, photonic chips utilize optical components such as:
- Waveguides – To direct and control light signals.
- Lasers – To generate the light used for data transmission.
- Modulators – To encode data onto light waves.
Why Are Photonic Chips Important?
- Photonic chips offer several advantages over electronic chips, making them a key technology for next-generation computing:
- Ultra-High Speed & Bandwidth – Light can carry data much faster than electrical signals.
- Energy Efficiency – They consume less power and generate minimal heat.
- Electromagnetic Interference Immunity – They are not affected by external electrical or magnetic disturbances.
- Dense Parallelism – Multiple data streams can be transmitted simultaneously using different wavelengths of light.
Applications of Photonic Chips
- Due to their superior performance, photonic chips are ideal for:
- 6G Networks – Enabling ultra-fast wireless communication.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Accelerating deep learning and neural network processing.
- Quantum Computing – Enhancing quantum data processing and communication.
- Data Centers – Reducing power consumption and improving efficiency.
- Optical Interconnects – Boosting high-speed data transmission between processors.
- Neural Network Acceleration – Speeding up AI-driven tasks and computations.
- Quantum Communication – Enabling secure and efficient quantum-based messaging.
- As research advances, photonic chips are expected to revolutionize computing, making systems faster, more efficient, and better suited for future technological demands.
Next-Gen Computing
- Next-Generation Computing (Next-Gen Computing) refers to advanced computational technologies that surpass traditional computing methods in speed, efficiency, and problem-solving capabilities.
- It integrates cutting-edge innovations like Quantum Computing, AI-driven Processing, Neuromorphic Computing, and Edge Computing to tackle complex challenges in science, business, and everyday life.
Key Technologies in Next-Gen Computing:
- Quantum Computing: Uses qubits instead of traditional bits, enabling parallel processing and solving complex problems exponentially faster.
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning: AI-driven computing enhances automation, decision-making, and predictive analysis.
- Neuromorphic Computing: Mimics the human brain’s neural networks using specialized hardware (e.g., IBM’s TrueNorth).
- Edge Computing: Processes data closer to the source (IoT devices) for real-time processing and reduced latency.
- Cloud Computing: Provides scalable resources via platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
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| Electronic Chips vs Photonic Chips |
| Feature |
Electronic Chips |
Photonic Chips |
| Signal Type |
Electrons (Electricity) |
Photons (Light) |
| Speed |
High |
Ultra-High |
| Bandwidth |
Limited |
Very high |
| Heat Generation |
High |
Low |
| Energy Efficiency |
Moderate |
High |
| EM Interference |
Can be affected |
Immune |
| Best Use Cases |
General computing & Embedded systems |
AI, 6G, Quantum computing, Data centers |
Government initiatives for Photonic Chips:
- The Ministry of Electronics and IT is supporting research in Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs).
- This research focuses on various material platforms, including Silicon, Lithium Niobate, Diamond, Polymer or Composite Materials.
- Additionally, MeitY is working on packaging technology for photonic chips to enhance their efficiency and scalability.
- The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is implementing the National Quantum Mission.
- Under the Mission, one Thematic Hub has been set up on Quantum Computing at IISC Bengaluru.
- One of the objectives of the T-Hub is the development of photonic qubits and photonic quantum processors, driving research in photonic chip technology to support next-generation computing infrastructure.
- The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) issues alerts and advisories regarding latest cyber threats/vulnerabilities to protect computers, networks and data on an ongoing basis.
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