Reversible computation

The development of low power systems gained significant importance and impressive progress has been made in this domain in the recent years. However, despite more efficient circuit technologies (made possible e.g. by the ongoing miniaturization of integrated circuits) as well as improvements in battery technology, also the way how computations are logically performed may have an effect on the required power consumption. In this invited paper, we consider reversible computation - an alternative computation paradigm which inherits certain characteristics and properties that may be of benefit for low power design. We review possible impacts to future developments and show how reversible computations can already been exploited today. Finally, we sketch design challenges which, besides other physical and electrical issues, still prevent the full exploitation of this computation paradigm.