Using the Physics of Light to Power the Next Generation of AI
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Science and Technology (Emerging technologies - Optical Computing, Photonics, Artificial Intelligence - AI, Neural Networks); General Science (Physics - Properties of light).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 3 (S&T): Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life; Awareness in the fields of IT, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology; Indigenization of technology.
Key Highlights from the News
Scientists have made significant progress in Optical Computing, a new technology that uses photons (light particles) to overcome the speed and energy efficiency limitations of existing electronic computers.
A new study demonstrated that complex calculations required for Artificial Intelligence (AI) models can be performed by passing intense light pulses through optical fibres.
This computation utilizes the nonlinear properties of light and phenomena like dispersion.
In an experiment using a simple AI model called an Extreme Learning Machine (ELM), this optical method achieved over 90% accuracy.
This technology will help build faster and more energy-efficient AI hardware in the future.
Photonic integrated circuits and optical neural networks are key future possibilities in this field.
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