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Speed Of Light Broken With Off Shelf Components

Posted by Hemos on from the breaking-the-limits dept.

jukal writes "An interesting article at NewScientist.com: " Now physicists at Middle Tennessee State University have broken that speed limit over distances of nearly 120 metres, using off-the-shelf equipment costing just $500.", " it may be possible to use this reflection technique to boost electrical signal speeds in computers and telecommunications grids by more than 50 per cent. Electrons usually travel at about two-thirds of light speed in wires, slowed down as they bump into atoms. Hache says it may be possible to send usable electrical signals to near light speed. ""

7 of 468 comments (clear)

  1. 186,000 miles per second by sulli · · Score: 5, Funny

    it's not just a good idea, it's the law!

    --

    sulli
    RTFJ.
    1. Re:186,000 miles per second by netsharc · · Score: 5, Funny

      Define "one second". :)

      The time taken for light to travel 1 / 299792458 metre?

      --
      What time is it/will be over there? Check with my iPhone app!
    2. Re:186,000 miles per second by Dirtside · · Score: 5, Funny
      it's not just a good idea, it's the law!*
      Actual mileage may vary.
      --
      "Destroy science and religion. Science would re-emerge exactly the same; but not religion." - Penn Jillette, paraphrased
  2. First Post at Light Speed! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Funny

    Ack! I bet by the time I hit submit, some other guy using electrons travelling faster than light will have beaten me to first post!

    Damn you technology!

  3. sensible weights and measures by spongman · · Score: 5, Funny

    c ~ 1802617528320.3 furlongs/fortnight

  4. Ludicrous speed! by McFly69 · · Score: 5, Funny

    Sandurz: Prepare for light speed.
    Helmet: No, no, light speed is too slow.
    Sandurz: Light speed too slow?
    Helmet: Yes, we'll have to go right to...Ludicrous speed!
    Sandurz:Ludicrous speed! Sir, we've never gone that fast before. I
    don't think the ship can take it.
    Helmet: What's the matter, Colonel Sandurz...CHICKEN?!

    --



    NO! NO! Please don't mod me, I'm too young to die a troll. *click* Oh the pain, the pain...
  5. New slashdot tagline by ucblockhead · · Score: 5, Funny

    "Slashdot! We don't suck any worse than the traditional media!"

    --
    The cake is a pie