Intel demos optical data transfer for servers

angry tapir writes: "Intel is taking the first steps to implement thin fiber optics that will use lasers and light as a faster way to move data inside computers, replacing the older and slower electrical wiring technology found in most computers today. Intel's silicon photonics technology will be implemented at the motherboard and rack levels and use light to move data between storage, networking and computing resources. The new rack architecture with silicon photonics is a result of more than a decade of research in Intel's laboratories, Rattner said. It could enable communication at speeds of 100G bps and transfer data at high speeds while using less power than copper copper. The technology could also consolidate power supplies and fans in a data center, reducing component costs."