Integrated Submillimeter-wve Receivers Utilizing Resonant Tunnels Diodes

We propose research leading to the development of an integrated sub millimeter wave downconverter utilizing Resonant Tunnel Diodes (RTD's) as the local oscillator. RTD's have already been demonstrated at Superior Vacuum Systems Associates (SVTA). Phase I research will develop the MBE growth and processing to integrate these RTD's together with mixer diodes and passive devices. These RTD's are fabricated in the InAs/AlSb material system, similar devices have achieved operation at 712GHz*. The designs will be further optimized for the MBE growth technology and process monitoring at SVTA. Phase I design tasks will address the need for tuning, and frequency control. We will design a submillimeter wave downconverters will incorporate an on-chip antenna for coupling to free space or to waveguide, to be tested under phase II. *"Oscillating up to 712 GHz in InAs /AlSb resonant tunneling diodes", E.R. Brown, J.R. Soderstrom, C.D. Parker, L.J. Mahoney, K.M> Molvar, and T.C. McGill, Appl. Phys. Lett. 58 (20)pp. 2291-3, 20-May-1991