Open AccessEvaluating the performance of quantum point contacts as nanoscale terahertz sensors
Author(s) -
Jiheon Song,
G. R. Aǐzin,
Yukio Kawano,
Koji Ishibashi,
Nobuyuki Aoki,
Y. Ochiai,
John L. Reno,
Jonathan P. Bird
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.18.004609
Subject(s) - terahertz radiation , responsivity , optoelectronics , nanoscopic scale , schottky diode , materials science , quantum point contact , semiconductor , optics , terahertz spectroscopy and technology , broadband , sensitivity (control systems) , noise (video) , quantum , noise equivalent power , physics , quantum well , nanotechnology , electronic engineering , photodetector , computer science , laser , diode , engineering , quantum mechanics , artificial intelligence , image (mathematics)
Quantum point contacts (QPCs) are nanoscale constrictions that are realized in a high-mobility two-dimensional electron gas by applying negative bias to split Schottky gates on top of a semiconductor. Here, we explore the suitability of these nanodevices to THz detection, by making use of their ability to rectify THz signals via the strong nonlinearities that exist in their conductance. In addition to demonstrating the configuration of these devices that provides optimal THz sensitivity, we also determine their noise equivalent power and responsivity. Our studies suggest that, with further optimization, QPCs can provide a viable approach to broadband THz sensing in the range above 1 THz.