Parametric oscillation and amplification using Esaki diodes

EFFICIENT PARAMETRIC OSCILLATION and amplification is possible by applying appropriate dc bias voltage to Esaki diodes which operates the diode in the positive resistance region below the peak point or above the valley point of current. By superimposing an ac excitation voltage the diodes can be made to alternate between the positive and negative resistance region. The element receives energy during the half-cycle of positive resistance and delivers energy during the half-cycle of negative resistance. Accordingly, when Esaki diodes are operated in the manner described, the existence of subharmonics and the phenomenon of parametric oscillation are observed.