The rapid growth of computing capabilities has provided significant benefits to engineering, scientific research, and society as a whole. However, more efficient compute hardware is needed to combat the increase in energy consumption. In-memory computing that bring memory and logic into close proximity using non-volatile information storage, combined with electronic-photonic computing hardware are promising technologies to significantly reduce energy consumption and increase compute performance.
Researching new multi-bit electronic-photonic memory
Out approach is based on phase-change materials that can be reconfigured for multiple bit storage and written/read in both electronic and photonic manner. Such a technology would be highly beneficial for future in-memory computing microelectronic chips and allow seamless integration of electronic-photonic computing, providing simultaneous access to the dual-mode memory information. The research sits at the intersection of two rapidly developing key technologies, semiconductor chip technology and integrated photonics. The research outcome will provide a crucial building block for future electronic-photonic neuromorphic computing engines.