UK Startup HoloMem Develops Holographic Data Storage to Tackle AI Energy Demands
As artificial intelligence continues to fuel unprecedented data growth, traditional magnetic tapes used for five decades may no longer meet global storage needs. A UK startup, HoloMem, is now developing an innovative solution using holographic storage designed on polymer tapes to address these challenges while reducing energy consumption in data centres.
Storing Data with Holograms
London-based HoloMem is using holographic technology to improve data storage density and efficiency. By using a method called multiplexing, HoloMem records multiple layers of digital information within the same physical space of its storage media. This process, commonly used to create 3D holograms, enables HoloMem to stack digital data layers efficiently.
Charlie Gale, founder and CEO of HoloMem, explained that their system leverages light-sensitive polymer tapes to store holographic data. These polymer tapes, originally designed for automotive use, are highly resistant to temperature and humidity changes. This resilience gives HoloMem’s media a lifespan of more than 50 years, significantly reducing the risk of data loss due to environmental factors.
Tackling Data Centre Energy Use
Data centres already contribute around 2.5% of global CO2 emissions. This figure is expected to rise sharply, with predictions suggesting that by 2030, approximately 8% of the world’s energy will be used to power and cool data centres. The rise of generative AI tools like ChatGPT has intensified demand, with a single ChatGPT search consuming about 10 times the energy of a standard Google search.
Traditional magnetic tape storage requires strict thermal and humidity control, adding to energy costs. It also struggles to keep pace with the rapid growth of digital data. Currently, standard magnetic tape cartridges can hold up to 30 terabytes of data. In contrast, HoloMem’s polymer tape system aims to store up to 200 terabytes per cartridge, providing a much higher storage density without the need for extensive cooling systems.
Ready for Industry Adoption
HoloMem’s technology fits within existing tape cartridge formats, making it easy for data centres to adopt without major infrastructure upgrades. This seamless integration sets it apart from magnetic tape systems, which often require expensive updates with each new generation.
With private backing and a £550,000 Innovate UK grant, HoloMem has emerged from stealth mode and is now seeking partnerships with data centre operators and software companies. Its high-density, low-power storage system could help reduce the environmental impact of data storage as digital demands continue to rise.
with inputs from Reuters
