Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the feasibility of computing using electromagnetic (EM) waves, exploring theoretical concepts and potential applications. Participants consider whether EM waves could function as logic gates and how this might relate to existing computing paradigms, including optical and quantum computing.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants propose that a sealed box with internal EM pulses could mold waveforms through interference to act as logic gates for computation.
- Others mention that while optical computing is somewhat related, there is little evidence of computers designed solely with electromagnetic waveforms as logic elements.
- A participant notes that current quantum computer prototypes utilize radio pulses to manipulate quantum states, emphasizing that these effects are more mechanical than purely electromagnetic.
- One participant suggests that using photons could theoretically speed up computation, likening the use of EM waves to gears in a clock.
- There is a reference to analog computers as a historical context, though it is not directly aligned with the main inquiry about EM wave computing.
- A later reply questions whether all computing inherently uses EM waves, indicating a broader interpretation of the topic.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express varying degrees of uncertainty regarding the practicality and existing research into computing with electromagnetic waves. No consensus is reached on the feasibility or implementation of such a concept.
Contextual Notes
Participants acknowledge limitations in the details provided about the proposed concepts, and there is a lack of clarity on how EM waves could be effectively utilized in computation compared to existing models like optical and quantum computing.