How many state changes per second could optical computing do

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the theoretical maximum state changes per second that optical computing could achieve compared to electrical transistors. Participants explore the potential speeds of optical transistors, the implications of photon behavior, and the challenges in predicting these speeds based on existing electrical technologies.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that optical transistors could theoretically achieve speeds above 500 GHz, while practical applications may be around 10-20 GHz.
  • One participant claims that optical transistors should be able to achieve at least 200 GHz, based on comparisons to electrical transistors.
  • Another participant calculates that light could theoretically allow for 4 quadrillion state changes per second, assuming ideal conditions where photons are perfectly aligned.
  • Concerns are raised about the relevance of the photon count in relation to state changes, with some arguing that photons do not behave like discrete particles that can be counted in this manner.
  • Participants discuss the limitations of extrapolating the speed of optical transistors from electrical ones, emphasizing the different technologies involved.
  • There is a debate about the nature of photons and their positions, with some asserting that photons do not have a well-defined position, which complicates the discussion of their behavior in computing.
  • Some participants challenge the assumptions made in calculations regarding the number of atoms photons pass and the implications for optical computing speeds.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express multiple competing views regarding the potential speeds of optical computing and the relevance of photon behavior. There is no consensus on the maximum achievable state changes per second or the implications of the calculations presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the dependence on specific technologies and operational principles of transistors, indicating that predictions may vary significantly based on these factors. The discussion also reflects uncertainties regarding the behavior of photons in the context of computing.

  • #31
IsItSo said:
New invention:
If we accelerate up an atom so it travels about 1 mile per second, and film it,
How is that a new invention? We've been accelerating large numbers of atoms to much greater speeds and filming them, for many decades.
 
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  • #32
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