80,000 Hours Podcast cover image

2023 Mega-highlights Extravaganza

80,000 Hours Podcast

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Why People Want Smaller Transistors (And Why Simply Making Bigger Devices Is Impractical)

Smaller transistors are more energy-efficient, leading to decreased energy costs and enabling cheaper production. They produce less heat, allowing chips to run faster. Cooling is crucial in maximizing chip performance. Shorter interconnects are essential for high interconnect bandwidth and proximity of components, with optical fiber being explored for better signal transmission. Building larger footprints can decrease heat dissipation per area, especially significant in data centers. The focus on advanced AI systems necessitates considerations beyond typical consumer-grade devices, emphasizing the importance of research and development in this field.

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