New Technology to Watch for Future IT Impact

Researchers from IBM Corp. recently published findings on a new use for carbon nanotubes that could impact future integrated circuit development. This follows on similar research that has been conducted by Hewlett-Packard Co. researchers. In addition, Intel Corp. researchers have been looking at photonics technology and how it might be used as well for the next generation of computer technology.

Focal Points:

• In a recent research paper, research scientists from IBM found a way to control light emissions from carbon nanotube transistors. They believe this will open up new avenues for developing and powering next-generation processors. IBM researches were able to control an electrically driven nanoscale light emitter, built around a single carbon nanotube. IBM researchers believe this is the first step in the development of nanotube-based integrated electronic and nanophotonic devices. These developments should bust open the performance of future microprocessors and memory.
• In similar advanced research, earlier this year researchers from HP developed a new fundamental circuit element from memory, called the memristor. This device will help with insight in new ways of developing better performing computer memory that may eventually replace current dynamic random access memory (DRAM) technology. Memristors were theorized about 35 years ago, but until recently there had been no research done that had proved these elements exist. Memristors have been impossible to see without the close scrutiny of nanoscale devices. HP engineers were able to build a nanoscale version of a memristor, to prove that it exists. A critical issue for memristance is the ability of the memristor's atoms to change location when voltage is applied. This can only be done effectively at nanoscale. Unlike DRAM, memristors would be able to retain their information even on power failure. These devices will also require less power to operate.
• Intel's CTO recently spoke at the Intel Developer Forum about Intel's plans for development over the next 40 years. One of the key areas of growth he sees is the area of photonics, which will use light to pass information on a chip, as well as project information onto large screens from small mobile devices. Intel researchers have been able to demonstrate using laser modules to transmit data up to 40 Gbps. In addition, Intel is developing hybrid silicon lasers that will run on 8 milliwatts. Other research Intel is doing involves the integration of photonic and electrical components on chip. Intel believes this integration will be commercially available by 2010.

Experton Group believes new technology developments will dramatically decrease power consumption, while enabling better integration between devices. As Moore's law is set to hit the limits of individual circuit dimensions, use of photonics and carbon nanotubes will dramatically improve connectivity, allowing devices to continue improving overall performance and power efficiency for at least another decade. IT executives should look at connectivity and energy as two domains to improve current data center efficiency.