#USA #AFRL #APIC Corporation #HIP-E Technology #Culver City, California

APIC Corporation and AFRL's Groundbreaking Partnership

In a significant advancement for secure computing, APIC Corporation has announced its collaboration with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) through an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA). This agreement aims to develop a novel prototype that integrates secure processing capabilities with APIC's advanced Heterogeneously Integrated Photonics and Electronics (HIP-E) technology. The project is based in Rome, NY, and represents a crucial step toward enhancing secure military and intelligence-related computing systems.

Objective of the OTA

The primary goal of this agreement is to create a prototype capable of multi-level security (MLS) processing. By demonstrating the transformative benefits of HIP-E technology over traditional copper-based interconnects, APIC is set to revolutionize how secure computing operates. The company is tasked with designing and fabricating photonic integrated circuits (PICs) that facilitate high-bandwidth, point-to-point optical connections between processors, memory, and input/output interfaces. Additionally, APIC will oversee the packaging of the PCB assembly, ensuring that it meets strict security and reliability standards.

Addressing High-Performance Computing Bottlenecks

As the fields of high-performance computing (HPC) and artificial intelligence (AI) continue to grow, a significant challenge arises: limited chip input/output (I/O) bandwidth. The constraints of copper-based connections often lead to power-hungry solutions that fail to meet the demands of today’s technology landscapes. APIC’s HIP-E technology tackles these issues by replacing conventional copper traces with chip-scale fiber-optic networks. This innovative solution alleviates the limitations associated with pitch-density and cross-channel interference while dramatically reducing energy consumption.

Advantages of HIP-E Technology

In partnership with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, APIC Corporation is co-developing this state-of-the-art prototype. Utilizing patented micro-disk modulators and waveguide multiplexers, the new system promises unparalleled efficiency breakthroughs in computing and data centers. The anticipated benefits include:

• - Reduced energy consumption: This will lower operating costs and environmental impact.
• - Lower latency: Quicker processing times for data-intensive applications that require real-time analysis.
• - Smaller system footprint: Ideal for defense and space programs, allowing for more compact and energy-efficient compute clusters.

These improvements are critical for various applications, including defense, advanced AI technology, and autonomous systems that demand high performance and reliability.

Insights from Leadership

Reflecting on this exciting development, Dr. Raj Dutt, CEO of APIC Corporation, stated, "This OTA marks a critical step toward embedding HIP-E in secure, defense-grade computing systems. By integrating secure processors with photonic I/O, we're setting a new bar for performance, security, and SWaP (size, weight, and power) efficiency.”

About APIC Corporation

Based in Culver City, California, APIC Corporation has established itself as a pioneer in silicon-photonics and RF-over-fiber solutions, particularly for military and intelligence sectors. With over $150 million in research funding spanning two decades, APIC has made significant advances in optical technologies, including wavelength-division multiplexing and heterogeneously integrated photonic-electronic systems. For more information, visit www.apichip.com.

About the Air Force Research Laboratory

The AFRL serves as the main scientific research and development hub for the U.S. Air Force, playing an essential role in leading the creation and integration of affordable technologies for air, space, and cyberspace operations. With a global presence across multiple technology domains, AFRL addresses a diverse array of scientific and technological needs vital for national security. To learn more, visit www.afresearchlab.com.