Engineers from Tufts University created a high-speed modulator the size of an ordinary chip. It can work with terahertz frequencies at room temperature. Being a low-voltage device, it does not require a constant current. The new development will allow to transfer data at a speed that is much higher than possible using existing technologies. If such technology becomes a reality, then access to the Internet from users' devices will become much faster.
The device design developed by the Nano Lab of Tufts University
The measurements showed that the limiting modulation frequency of the new device in question was 14 gigahertz. Potentially, according to an online publication in Scientific Reports , it can work with a frequency exceeding 1 terhertz. The ranges of cellular networks are already significant in their spectrum, and therefore the amount of data that can be transmitted is limited.
The device works through the interaction of terahertz waves in a waveguide with a two-dimensional electron gas. The prototype device works in the frequency range 0.22-0.325 terahertz, which was chosen because of its compatibility with the capabilities of available experimental equipment. The researchers note that the device can also work in other bands.
Although there is considerable interest in using the terahertz range of the electromagnetic spectrum, which will allow data transfer with speeds that are significantly higher than those available today using common technologies, this range is characterized by a low degree of utilization. One of the reasons for this is the lack of compact components of the chip format - modulators, transmitters and receivers.
The device devised by the researchers is very promising. It allows you to work with terahertz frequencies, while being compact. It can be manufactured in the same industries on which the mainstream semiconductor components are created. It is characterized by the same form factor as existing communication devices. The developed device is a way to fill a gap in the use of terahertz frequencies for data transmission.
After all, the existence of a certain technology is not enough for its mass application. It is important that it is affordable at production costs, easy to use and compact enough to be used in future in modern devices that are miniaturized, and does not require special temperature and other conditions for its use.
Based on sciencedaily.com
The article is based on materials .
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