Nvidia embraces optical chip tech in networking chips, not GPUs

The big picture: Nvidia's approach to co-packaged optics is a nuanced reflection of the technology's current limitations and future potential. By focusing on specialized applications with less demanding reliability requirements, Nvidia is positioning itself to lead the development of optical technologies for networking and data center applications while continuing to rely on traditional copper connections for its high-performance GPUs. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang recently addressed the reliability of co-packaged optics, a technology that uses laser light to transmit data between chips, and its potential use in the company's flagship GPUs. During the company's annual developer conference, Huang noted that while co-packaged optics offer superior energy efficiency and speed compared to traditional copper connections, they are not yet reliable enough for widespread use in Nvidia's GPUs. This reliability gap is significant, with copper connections being "orders of magnitude" more reliable tha ... Read full article.