Can Our Computers Continue To Get Smaller and More Powerful? 151
aarondubrow (1866212) writes In a [note, paywalled] review article in this week's issue of the journal Nature (described in a National Science Foundation press release), Igor Markov of the University of Michigan/Google reviews limiting factors in the development of computing systems to help determine what is achievable, in principle and in practice, using today's and emerging technologies. "Understanding these important limits," says Markov, "will help us to bet on the right new techniques and technologies." Ars Technica does a great job of expanding on the various limitations that Markov describes, and the ways in which engineering can push back against them.
yes. Especially per passenger. (Score:5, Interesting)
> Did our jets get faster and lighter and cheaper?
Yes. Especially lighter and cheaper PER PASSENGER, which is the goal for passenger jets.
> it still takes the same amount of energy to fly across the Atlantic.
Nope, fuel efficiency and energy efficiency have improved significantly.