Researchers at Cornell University have made progress in understanding how to build smaller, energy-efficient optical computing systems. The study focused on the limitations of using light for computation by analyzing the space required for light waves to propagate, interact, and perform calculations. Led by Associate Professor Francesco Monticone and postdoctoral researcher Yandong Li, the team examined the scaling laws for free-space optics and photonic circuits. Their findings detail how the physical size of optical systems increases with the complexity of the tasks they are designed to perform.

The research addresses a key challenge in optical computing: confining light in a smaller space. Unlike electrons, photons are more difficult to contain, making it hard to build compact devices that could, for example, perform complex AI tasks like image classification. The team’s analysis provides insights into the trade-offs between task complexity, performance, and the minimum physical size required to run optical computations effectively.

Source: Cornell University

Source Type: College

Source Location: Ithaca

Ithaca, NY

https://www.facebook.com/709174307912162/posts/1229924652503789

Cornell President: Universities Transform Society and Economy

University leaders discuss higher education's societal impact and economic benefits.

Mesoamerican Forests Key for North American Birds Extinction Risk

Mesoamerica's Great Forests are vital for migrating North American birds' survival.

Cornell Professor Reveals Evergreen's Historical Witness Role

Evergreen trees preserve history, acting as silent witnesses over millions of years.

Snow Engulfs Cornell University Campus in Ithaca

Cornell University campus in Ithaca experiences snowy conditions.

Cornell Study Links Aging to Dopamine Neuron Decline

Aging increases dopamine neuron vulnerability due to energy shortages linked to Parkinson’s.

Early Allergen Exposure Protects Horses from Future Allergies

Early allergen exposure in horses reduces later eczema-like allergic reactions.

Cornell Study Reveals Psilocybin’s Brain Circuit Rewiring

Psilocybin reconfigures brain circuits, weakening negative feedback and boosting sensory pathways.

Cornell Seeks Student Advice Ahead of Finals

Cornell seeks student advice for managing final exam challenges.

Ithaca Vineyard Hosts Festive Holiday Spree

Six Mile Creek Vineyard hosted a festive holiday shopping spree for its customers.

ESC Vesicles Delay Aging, Enhance Regeneration

Embryonic stem cell vesicles delay cell aging and aid regeneration.