CPU socket supporting socket-to-socket optical communications

摘要

A communication socket hereinafter referred to as the "CPU socket" and its preferred methods of integration into conventional electronic circuits are described. The CPU socket advantageously uses hybrid devices embedded within a conventional integrated circuit (IC) socket. Circuit connectivity is maintained via photon transmission without the need of conventional metallic connections. Typical problems associated with metallic traces, circuit board geometries, packing densities and parasitic limitations of conventional PCB's are eliminated. The CPU socket emulates all of the physical aspects of PCB metallic etched traces via a photon mechanism. The CPU socket supports system networking functions normally available only in large "intra" and "inter" computer communications facilities, and reduces system networking design down to socket/PCB level. Additionally, the CPU socket generates the power necessary for operation as well as that needed by hosted IC's via photovoltaic devices contained within the CPU socket. The voltaic devices may be driven by any natural or artificial photon source of sufficient intensity to power the socket and piggy-back IC.