Aiming For Faster Than the Speed of Light

The world of technology is an ever-changing industry that is constantly producing more and more options to consumers.  Computer cables have become a necessary piece of equipment in order to fully function in today's digital world. As devices such as smartphones, televisions and computers become more sophisticated, input/output, or cable technology, has had to race to keep up.

One of the latest and arguably among the greatest computer cables available on the market is a product of partnership between Apple and Intel, the Thunderbolt.  Although the Thunderbolt resembles other technology like USB, its speed and flexibility set it apart. The development is based on two basic technologies: PCI Express and DisplayPort. PCI Express and DisplayPort are designed for linking computer components and external displays. Due to this, the Thunderbolt has the versatility to work with other equipment.

The Thunderbolt shows its differences in several ways. Its cables are made of numerous copper wires that can send information, both data and display signals, to and from devices at the same time.  Additionally, Intel designed a specialized chip that allows a wide range of devices to be capable of using the same port in spite of requiring different types of signals. The Thunderbolt gives users two channels on the same connector with 10 Gbps of throughput in each direction. According to Apple "you can move data to and from peripherals up to 20 times faster than with USB 2.0 and up to 12 times faster than the FireWire 800."  Instead of waiting minutes or even hours to download data it can be done in a matter of seconds.
 
Thus far Mac is the main user of Thunderbolt technology. They have such high hopes and confidence in the new input/output system that they have incorporated Thunderbolt ports in all of their Macs.  Although extensive adoption will take some time there are already a few compatible devices and adaptors on the market.
 
Despite all the possibilities, the Thunderbolt does include a few disadvantages. The main issue with this new technology is its price tag. The cables and peripherals are pretty expensive initial investments.  Equipment containing Thunderbolt technology is also more pricy than those with similar capabilities manufactured by other companies.  Additionally, the Thunderbolt will probably not be adapted into devices that utilize mobile operating systems, such as, iPhones or the iPad because they are built on a different technology.
 
What has been established up till now is only the tip of the iceberg for the Thunderbolt. So far no other single cable has been capable of doing so many things and at such a fast speed. This device has opened the door for the introduction of thinner and lighter laptops. Furthermore, Intel has begun working on the development of other products, for instance, audio and video devices, displays, computers and data storage devices that will include the Thunderbolt. The future looks bright for Thunderbolt input/output cable technology, upcoming products and everyone who will get to enjoy the many benefits of its existence.