The rise of AI is driving a demand for analog technology and devices as analog computing is regaining prominence.
by Jon Holder, Supplier Marketing Manager at TTI, Inc.
If we live long enough, we’re sure to see it happen—things once thought outdated coming back in vogue. In leisure, there’s renewed interest in “vintage” items like vinyl record albums and even Airstream travel trailers. Now technology is following suit.
Analog technology, which was essentially replaced when digital computing took off in the 1970s, is experiencing a resurgence. In an age of artificial intelligence (AI), analog computing is actually playing a central role toward more efficient processing.
Why the comeback?
The fundamental nature of analog technology—its functionality—is the reason for its renaissance of sorts. Whereas digital technology operates on discrete data (which assume specific values only), analog uses continuous data, which can have an infinite number of potential values. One is useful for counting; the other for measuring. Turns out both are necessary.
Analog computers are designed to solve multiple complex calculations simultaneously, simulating conditions that involve continuous change and variables and reflect the complexities of the real world. This makes analog technology ideal for applications in the burgeoning field of AI, which—by definition—requires tremendous amounts of diverse, high-quality, and evolving data.
As powerful AI and machine learning models become the norm, companies need their systems to conduct increasingly sophisticated operations efficiently and affordably. Digital computers have struggled to perform, but this is precisely where analog devices are proving indispensable: translating real-world data into digital form, serving as the bridge for digital systems to interpret and process information.
Many AI applications involve converting sensory input into digital form, with the most prevalent one being computer vision. This process trains machines to understand and make sense of the visual world by analyzing images and videos. Natural language processing, another example, enables machines to understand, interpret, and generate human language.
Advantages of analog
Analog technology has the ability to process data where it’s stored, eliminating the need to move data between the central processing and memory units. This “in-memory computing” capability eliminates bottlenecks, making it faster than traditional computing and allowing real-time AI processing. It also consumes substantially less energy, all of which make it more cost effective.
And energy efficiency is a significant factor in the field as AI has produced a boom in high-density data centers with constant energy demands. Goldman Sachs Research forecasts global power demand from data centers will increase 50% by 2027.
Components are key
The renewed interest in analog computing signals increased demand for analog components. High-performance analog sensors are what help ensure the accuracy and reliability so critical for the effectiveness of AI systems.
It’s clear that analog sensors will play a pivotal role going forward as companies deploy AI more aggressively and the use of edge computing and IoT devices spreads. Analog complements digital, and the future of computing looks to enable hybrid applications that will seize on the strengths of both models.
As the industry continues to innovate and evolve, having a component supplier at the forefront of analog as well as digital technology advances will prove invaluable. TTI specialists stay abreast of developments within the market. We offer an extensive inventory of high-quality parts as well as true long-term partnerships with our customers to help ensure their success today and in the future.