Intel researchers build laser on chip

Working with the basic material of computer chips, Intel researchers have constructed an all-silicon laser that could lead to computers one day harnessing light waves rather than electrical currents to shuttle data swiftly.

Today, lasers that power fast optical networks require exotic - and expensive - materials and are mainly used in vast communications networks. With everyday silicon, the capacity and efficiency of light waves could be used cheaply in much smaller environments.

Read the complete story . (Boston.com)