Technology and Physics of Infrared and Point Contact Diodes
Abstract
Preliminary work in this laboratory has shown that tunneling characteristics of metal-oxide-metal junctions are essentially independent of frequency as long as photon energy is less than the barrier height. Recent calculations show the effects of circuit parameters on response of antenna/diode combinations; the junction capacitance is responsible for roll off in the infrared. Capacitance reduction requires shrinking junction size, hence the need for micron and submicron geometries. Photo emission (over the barrier rather than tunneling) and thermal effects dominate the response in the visible region. It seems likely that photoemission is a fast effect and can be used for visible mixing. Calculation of operating parameters for an infrared antenna/diode combination has been completed. This shows the performance of the receiving and detecting elements as a function of geometry and dielectric constants; included is the effect of the strong frequency dependence of the circuit elements. This work will be prepared for publication. Additional measurements have been made of the antenna pattern of a printed antenna/diode. An unsuccessful search was conducted for negative resistance in a fine tungsten point on gold.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA050176
Entities
People
- Ali Javan
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology