Intel has made a breakthrough in its research into electronic components which could change the way in which home computers process and transmit data.
The electronics giant has created the worlds first end-to-end silicon photonics connection, which allows digital information to be transmitted using integrated lasers instead of copper wires.
This technology is capable of moving the equivalent of an entire high-definition movie in a second, allowing numerous older cable-based systems to be replaced with a single optical fibre for energy-saving benefits.
Moreover, the chips used in silicon photonics can be assembled using the same low-cost manufacturing techniques seen in the semiconductor industry, meaning the technology would also be relatively affordable.
Justin Rattner, Intels chief technology officer, said the research could bring high-bandwidth, low-cost optical communications in and around future PCs, servers and consumer devices .
Earlier this week, companies including IBM and Samsung agreed to ally on developing new semiconductor process technology which could lead to super-efficient new chips being created for portable electronics.
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