University of Surrey in collaboration with the University of Cambridge and the University of Southampton is envisioning a future of super fast computers not very far. CDs, DVDs and other such storage devices implement data transfer with the aid of amorphous chalcogenides. Scientists have found out ways that can alter the properties of these materials by integrating the technique of ion doping. Hence with ion doping, accommodate several computing functions into one all-optical system. Researchers are saying that this technique is turning out to be a great boost for data transfer speed.
Usually for data transfer, electrons are employed but here scientists are contributing towards making light has the major career. Project leader Dr Richard Curry, who works at Surrey’s Advanced Technology Institute (ATI) said, “The challenge is to find a single material that can effectively use and control light to carry information around a computer. Much like how the web uses light to deliver information, we want to use light to both deliver and process computer data.”
He also added, “This has eluded researchers for decades, but now we have now shown how a widely used glass can be manipulated to conduct negative electrons, as well as positive charges, creating what are known as ‘pn-junction’ devices. This should enable the material to act as a light source, a light guide and a light detector – something that can carry and interpret optical information. In doing so, this could transform the computers of tomorrow, allowing them to effectively process information at much faster speeds.”
Source: Discover Surrey’s Electronic Engineering and Physics programmes
