Exascale computing is primarily challenged by power consumption, raising concerns about the feasibility of zeta-scale platforms. Conventional silicon technology faces limitations, with the potential to scale down to 5 nanometers offering only a tenfold increase in transistor density compared to 14nm, which is insufficient for future demands. The prospect of using significantly larger silicon areas is not viable, and the escalating power requirements pose a critical issue, as supercomputers may require excessive energy, likened to needing a nuclear power plant. The discussion emphasizes the need for alternative technologies to address these challenges effectively.
