Digital Reality Pursues Photonics to Reduce Data Centre Power Use

Digital Reality's chief technology officer Chris Sharp states that data centres typically use around 400 tonnes of copper for their electrical infrastructure, with significant amounts dedicated to computer servers and network wiring. Photonics technology is being explored as an alternative to copper, which may reduce energy consumption and heat generation in data centres. The shift to photonics could allow data streams to be transmitted more efficiently, leading to potential energy savings. The involvement of companies like Nvidia in photonics development signals increased support for this technology, which may impact operational costs in the industry.