Some physical limits in switching technologies

The article investigates physical limits in switching technologies of uses in future high-speed multimedia communication systems. Comparisons among semiconductor electronic, optical, and superconductive electronic switching devices are made with the view of switching speed and power dissipation. Some physical limits on interconnect and packaging of high-speed ICs are also discussed. It is shown that superconductive switching is an emerging technology for extreme breadboard communication systems. The quantum electronics may revolutionize today's electronic systems provided that cost-effective fabrication technology for nanostructures and novel circuit architecture could be developed.