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Nature Podcast

How light-based computers could cut AI’s energy needs

Jul 31, 2024
32:37
Snipd AI
Discover how light-based computers could revolutionize AI by significantly cutting energy needs. Researchers are replacing bulky lasers with efficient LEDs, paving the way for greener tech. Additionally, learn about the alarming spread of H5N1 bird flu in US cattle and the potential risks to human health. The podcast also touches on breakthroughs in plant genetics and how COVID-19 vaccine lessons could shape equitable healthcare responses in the future. Plus, dive into Mars discoveries hinting at ancient life and ocean mysteries relating to oxygen production.
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Quick takeaways

  • Advancements in light-based computers using LEDs can significantly increase energy efficiency for AI applications, surpassing traditional electronic systems.
  • The emergence of H5N1 in cattle raises potential human health risks, necessitating increased surveillance and vaccination efforts to prevent outbreaks.

Deep dives

Advancements in Photonic Computing

Photonic computers are emerging as a promising alternative to traditional electronic computing, especially for artificial intelligence applications. They utilize light to perform calculations, which enables much higher computing bandwidth, allowing for data transmission rates that significantly surpass those of electronic systems. One of the key advantages is their enhanced energy efficiency, with light traveling through optical fibers without generating the heat typically associated with electronic computation. Recent research has demonstrated that using a less coherent light source, like a super luminescence LED, can improve the performance and controllability of these photonic processors.

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