Tiny terahertz wave oscillation and detection devices cut size 1000x

ROHM has developed a small Resonant Tunneling Diode (RTD) chip for terahertz wave generation and detection, capable of oscillating and detecting terahertz waves at a frequency of 320 GHz (typical) with an output power ranging from 10 to 20 µW.

These are the industry’s smallest terahertz wave oscillation and detection devices and are anticipated to be applied to non-destructive testing, imaging, and sensing in the medical and healthcare sectors, as well as potentially future ultra-fast communication technologies.

ROHM will begin offering samples of this RTD element mounted in a PLCC package (4.0- by 4.3 mm) commonly used for LEDs. With an extremely compact size, typically one-thousandth of that of conventional oscillators, this innovation enables easy development of terahertz wave applications, even in space-constrained environments.

By positioning the antenna surfaces of the oscillation and detection devices facing each other 10-mm apart, a dynamic range of 40 dB (typical.) can be achieved. Both oscillator and detector maintain a drive power consumption of 10 mW (typical), while their ability to oscillate and detect terahertz waves at room temperature eliminates the need for cooling equipment required with some conventional methods. These compact, power-saving devices are almost unaffected by the operating environment, enabling use in a wide range of applications.

ROHM offers samples of terahertz wave oscillation and detection devices less than one-tenth the price of conventional devices. ROHM also provides evaluation kits that include an evaluation board and other components, allowing users to easily integrate the devices into a research and development environment. The sale of sample products and evaluation kits requires the prior signing of a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with ROHM.

Professor Safumi Suzuki, Laboratory for Future Interdisciplinary Research of Science and Technology, Institute of Integrated Research, Institute of Science Tokyo comments: “Terahertz waves are expected to be applied to various fields such as imaging, sensing, and wireless communications due to their excellent characteristics and high degree of safety. However, research and development for commercialization has traditionally required large-scale equipment and substantial costs. In this context, the RTD terahertz wave device — developed through years of collaborative research with ROHM — is an ultra-small 4.0- × 4.3-mm device that challenges conventional norms while featuring astonishingly low power consumption and implementation costs. With the launch of device samples, we anticipate that many private companies and research institutions will begin exploring terahertz wave research. Going forward, we will continue to contribute to society through the development of terahertz wave devices in partnership with ROHM.”

By combining measurement tools like Analog Discovery 3™ from Digilent with a computer and software, users can easily operate terahertz wave oscillation and detection devices. Miniaturizing both the device and evaluation board makes it possible to create a research and development environment even in limited spaces, such as a desktop.