Three-dimensional optical circuits buried deep within a microchip are the
logical next step for microchip makers. The challenge is to connect deeply
buried layers of components, and keep them cool. The University of Nebraska鈥檚
answer (WO 01/15819) is to burrow through a chip with ultra-short laser pulses.
A titanium sapphire laser emits a thousand pulses of infrared light per second,
with each pulse only lasting 150 femtoseconds. The pulses burn a channel just 10
nanometres wide. By turning the chip and laser, the researchers are able to
build a 3D pattern of paths which can carry light signals or coolant gas.
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Technology
Test moderators use AI-generated writing to judge literacy standards
News
Technology
We should decide how AI shapes the future, not tech firms
Comment
Technology
Quantum voting could make elections more secure
News
Technology
DeepMind AI gives an extra day of warning ahead of deadly cyclones
News
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles