Article tools sponsored by

Thin films enable to faster data transmission

Bruce Wiebusch, Regional Editor -- Design News, May 21, 2001

Bruce Wessels wants to increase the data transmission connection on your computer. The Northwestern University professor of material science and engineering patented a device and material for integrated optic circuits. He says his thin-film electro-optical modulator provides a faster way to transmit information. Wessels uses a metal-organic molecular beam epitaxy apparatus for the thin-film deposition. In addition to the modulators, Wessels and associate professor Seng-Tiong Ho developed wave guides and optical amplifiers using ferroelectric material. They point out that bulk crystals used in optical circuits now have limits and their thin film is superior because it enables high-speed operations with low voltage for less expense. The researchers demonstrated that their thin-film modulators work at frequencies up to 20 gigahertz. SVT Associates is working with Wessels to develop and commercialize the technology. For more information, go to www.northwestern.edu.

related stories
resource center
by this author

View more articles by Bruce Wiebusch

Technology Marketplace

Article tools sponsored by

Talkback

We would love your feedback!

» View All Talkback Threads

» Submit talk back

DN's Resource Center Get Free Information, Made Easy

Unique & Personal Capabilities catalog
Control Line Equipment, Inc. | Design Guide
Request Item
How to Create Lasting Bonds with Adhesives, Sealants & Coatings
Master Bond | White Paper
Request Item

View all DN resources >>

Design News Partner Zones

CAD/CAE Model Clean-Up: Reduce Iterative Cycles
Discuss how Recipe-Based Automation can help create "just-in-time" CAE-ready geometry when CAD models are updated. Register Now

Light Matters: Systems Level Approach to HBLED illumination applications
Its good practice to apply a systems-level approach to high-brightness LED (HBLED) illumination applications. Minimally, the system includes the optical, thermal and electrical characteristics of the of the HBLED, the lens (if any) which is built-in to its package, secondary optics such as external plastic lenses/reflectors to direct the light as your application requires and power driver electronics. Read More

Design Engineers' Portal for Sensing and Machine Safety
Whatever industry you're in, or whatever product you manufacture, the right sensors to automate your plant, and to improve your overall efficiency, quality and safety are a must. You'll find Banner Engineering to be an amazing resource of products, training and people with expertise.