According to this tech startup, diamonds are not just for cooling chips. They can also be used to reduce temperatures by 20degC.

Diamonds are cool. Diamonds are cool. This is what I learned from watching heist films, rap videos and loud, obnoxious individuals shoving them into my face at parties in order to show me how much their partner values or something like that.

According to Akash Systems (via Tom's Hardware), they could be the future for chip cooling. The company recently signed a non-binding preliminary agreement for CHIPS act funding of $18.2 millions (along with $50 million in federal tax credits and state tax credits).

While the exact methodology for how this diamond cooling technology works remains under wraps, the company has released a soaring-soundtrack-filled promotional video to explain the tech, and the claims are pretty impressive.

Akash Systems claims to have fused synthetic diamonds with conductive materials such as Gallium Nitride in order to make semiconductors. Diamond is five times more thermally conducive than copper. This makes it ideal for dissipating the heat from electronic devices.

This fusing technique, which uses diamond, is meant to be the "best of both" scenario. Devices using this material can function in a traditional way, while also being thermally efficient - allowing chips to draw a greater amount of power while running cooler.

How much more efficient is it? Akash Systems claims a 20degC reduction in hot spots, along with 50% reduced fan speeds and 25% more overclocking. They also claim a potential doubled server lifetime. I'll believe it once I see it but on the surface, yes.

Akash Systems claims that its diamond-cooling technology is revolutionising satellite communication thanks to the material's heat-busting qualities. This leads to five to 10 times faster data rates and increased reliability.

For now, it is still unclear whether or not the CHIPS Act funding will be received. This is a good first step, but there are still many obstacles to overcome before funding can be agreed.

CHIPS act funding is also in a precarious situation with the incoming new US government. The act has been criticized by President Elect Donald Trump in the past. Companies are now racing to approve contracts before his administration takes control on January 20, 2025.

This diamond-cooling technology seems promising. I'm all for anything that makes chips more efficient, but it is unclear whether this will make my PC shinier.

I would like to wear this around my neck in the near future like Flavor Flav. Don't jump on me all at once, just spitball ideas.