Quantum-effect and single-electron devices

Abstract

In this paper, we review the current status of nanoelectronic devices based on quantum effects such as quantization of motion and interference, and those based on single electron charging phenomena in ultrasmall structures. In the first part, we discuss wave-behavior in quantum semiconductor structures, and several device structures based on quantum waveguide behavior such as stub tuners, Y-branches, and quantum ratchets. Discussion is also given of proposals for use of interference phenomena in quantum computing followed by the issue of quantum decoherence which ultimately limits utilization of quantum effects. In the second part, we discuss single electron effects such as Coulomb blockade, and associated devices such as the single electron transistor and single electron charge pumps. This is followed by an overview of some recent work focusing on Si based single electron structures. We conclude with a discussion of proposals and realizations for single-electron circuits and architectures including single electron memories, single electron logic, and single electron cellular nonlinear networks.