Network Theory of Semiconductor Hall-Plate Circuits

Abstract

The paper deals with purely electrical realizations of the network element, the Gyrator, at low frequencies. It discusses the utilization of Hall effect in semiconductors and the properties of nonreciprocal devices based on this effect. A systematic study of the Hall plate, the best that can be expected from it and the conditions under which the best performance can be expected are established; and some new theoretical and practical schemes are suggested which permit better understanding of device performance and yield better devices. The Hall devices are nonreciprocal, passive, and stable but dissipative. They permit the extension of frequency range from dc to several magacycles over which the nonreciprocal devices can be used. In this sense they are complementary to the microwave Faraday-effect devices such as isolators and circulators and will permit greater flexibility and choice of elements for complex circuit designs, if the loss can be tolerated. This paper presents basic limitations, from an insertion loss standpoint, on the performance of Hall-plate circuits imbedded in resistance or reactance networks.