Semiconductor and related device technologies have underpinned the improvement of computer performance over the past half century, thanks to Moore's Law. Today, we need new breakthroughs because the scaling of CMOS devices is approaching physical limitations. Using our skills in basic physics, material properties, and other areas, TRL is conducting innovative device research that will have a major impact on future computer architecture. We are also collaborating with partners in Japan, such as materials, equipment and other manufacturers.
Competency fields
Optical Interconnect Technology
Data transmission bandwidth is increasing very rapidly due to clock frequency increases and the use of multi-processor architectures in high-end servers. Although electrical interconnects are still being used for the current servers, we are reaching the limits of these connections.The materials cannot handle higher data rates, and the line widths cannot be further reduced. We are developing server optical interconnect technologies and subsystem architectures using optical fibers and optical waveguides to provide the required data transmission bandwidths.
3D Chip Stack
The concentration of integrated circuits has been doubling every two years according to Moore's Law. However, it is now becoming difficult to sustain this growth rate because designs are approaching the physical limitations of the materials. 3D integration is expected to make it possible to prolong this growth rate for integration with higher circuit speeds and significant reductions in power consumption. TRL is working on connection and cooling technology research for 3D packaging.
Millimeter Wave Technology
The goal of our research project is to develop a next-generation ultra-high-speed wireless communication technology using millimeter waves, working with the T.J. Watson Research Center. TRL is providing leading-edge modulation and coding algorithms that are critical for achieving data rates in the Gbps range. We are also exploring how such high-speed wireless technologies could revolutionize future IT infrastructures and consumer and business applications.
