NIST researchers are developing advanced photoconductive switches (PCS) to support high-frequency communications and quantum technologies. The new switches can operate up to 1 terahertz, far exceeding the capabilities of traditional photodiodes. This breakthrough is crucial for calibrating test equipment needed to support 6G communications, which will operate at frequencies near or above 100 GHz.
The new PCS technology could revolutionize high-speed electronics and optoelectronics manufacturing. NIST’s research team has demonstrated on-wafer photoconductive switches that operate up to 1 terahertz, future-proofing phase calibration for next-generation electronic devices. The technology could also be used to develop quantum science applications.
Implementation of the new PCS technology is expected to be very attractive to high-speed electronics and optoelectronics manufacturers. The research is part of NIST’s ongoing efforts to develop advanced calibration standards and measurement techniques for emerging communication technologies.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/noac/technology/quantum-optics-and-radiometry/photoconductive-switches
Keywords: Photoconductive switches, Terahertz frequencies, Optoelectronic chip-scale reference pulse generator, Ultrafast optoelectronic standards, High-speed electronics and optoelectronics manufacturers
