Joint course |
Spring 1999
|
PHY 682.01 |
Wednesday 7:00 pm
|
ESE 670.6 |
Rm. PHY B-131
|
Novel Electronic Devices
(0-3 credits, grading: ABC)
Instructors: K. Likharev (Physics and Astronomy) and S. Luryi (Electrical Engineering)
The goal of this inter-disciplinary graduate course (offered only once in 3 to 4 years) is to discuss the physics and technology of a variety of electronic and optoelectronic devices using semiconductors, dielectrics, magnetic materials, normal metals, and superconductors. We intend to cover not only commercially proven devices, but also those in the exploratory stage, and even the most instructive blind alleys. Special emphasis will be given to device applications and system requirements - both existing and prospective.
The shopping list of topics includes:
We do not expect to cover all of these topics, so choice will much depend on the students. At the first meeting, each student will select a particular topic for his/her presentation. At each of the following meetings (~2 hours once a week) one or two topics will we presented by either a student or an instructor, and then discussed by all seminar participants. Discussions will concentrate on the following questions:
1. What is the basic physics of the device operation?The instructors will provide references to the literature and consultations, and lead the discussions. There are no compulsory prerequisites, however we expect a reasonable command of the basic solid state physics (at a level somewhere between Kittel and Ashcroft/Mermin). Undergraduates so qualified are encouraged to participate.2. What is its prevalent fabrication technology? Possible alternatives?
3. What useful performance do the devices provide/promise relative to competition?
4. Why is the device used/not used in practice? Any future prospects?