Two-dimensional charge-transfer arrays

Abstract

Charge-transfer arrays with a truly two-dimensional organization in which an element of information contained in a general cell can be moved in more than one direction to an adjacent cell are proposed. After a review of the basic electrode arrangements for various charge-transfer techniques, some possible layouts for actual devices are described. It is shown that simple orthogonal arrays could readily lead to mass serial/parallel converters. Other arrays in which not all unit cells are identical could perform more complicated processing such as mixing operations or passing maneuvers between two fields of information. The possibilities of building logic arrays and of using two-dimensional arrays in electrooptical systems are also discussed. It is concluded that the introduction of additional degrees of freedom into charge-transfer devices increases their versatility and their potential uses, and that technologies are available for the fabrication of two-dimensional arrays.