Nano-technology-device prospects: quantum dots and transistors for ultracompact integration and terahertz analogue applications

Nanometric-sized transistors can be employed to control the charge transfer from one quantum dot (QD) to another one. The charge in a QD can also be used to control the transistor current. In principle here then electronics is not related to currents but due to charges. It is of interest, not only to apply this to ultracompact digital circuits, but to also use this for analogue applications such as non-linear circuits for mixing of signals or for harmonic extraction. In view of the short transit times this can be considered for frequencies up into the Terahertz range. Particular structure requirements are to be discussed.