Intersubband Terahertz Detectors
Abstract
The technology at frequencies between 1 and 10 Terahertz lags far behind that at lower end higher frequencies. Intersubband dynamics of electrons and wide semiconductor quantum wells offer opportunities to fabricate Terahertz detectors in extremely high performance, new functionalities, and moderate cryogenic requirements. In this talk, I will first review the relevant physics of intersubband transitions in wide quantum wells, as well as existing detectors based on intersubband transitions. I will then discuss the theory and development of so-called "Tunable antenna coupled intersubband THz" (TACIT) detectors. These are four-terminal phototransistors, in which Terahertz radiation absorbed via an intersubband transition changes the in-plane resistance between a source and drain. The goal of our current research program is to demonstrate a TACIT heterodyne receiver for 1.6 Terahertz which is suitable for space-based THz astrophysics missions, and which operates at lattice temperatures in excess of 20 Calvin while requiring local oscillator power < 1 microwatt. Such a device would eliminate the need to fly either liquid helium, required to cool state of the art superconducting hot-electron bolometer mixers, or few-mW Terahertz sources, required to pump Schottky diode receivers.
- Publication:
-
APS March Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- March 2002
- Bibcode:
- 2002APS..MAR.B8001S