Photonic Chips For Next-Gen Computing

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.

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.

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-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.

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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