Revival of Optical Computing

Optical computing is a general term for high-performance computing technologies that effectively use the physical properties of light. With the rapid development of electronics, its superiority as a high-performance computing technology has diminished; however, there is momentum for research on new optical computing. This study reviews the history of optical computing, clarifies its diversity, and provides suggestions for new developments. Among the methods proposed thus far, those considered useful for utilizing optical technology in information systems are introduced. Subsequently, the significance of optical computing in the modern context is considered and directions for future development is presented.