Silicon photonic networks: Signal loss and power challenges

Abstract

Exascale systems are in need for alternative interconnection technologies. Electrical interconnects are not likely to scale well to a large number of computing nodes in terms of energy efficiency and latency. Silicon photonic networks stand as the main alternative to solve this problem, but are we there yet? In this paper, we exhibit some challenges to be solved for this technology to become a viable solution. Signal loss sources play a critical role in photonic network designs as they restrict the ability to perform data transmission in an effective way.