Down-scaling differential pairs of depleted optical thyristors

We present the results of a scaling study of monolithic differential pairs of optical thyristors. The devices are depleted thyristors, intended for high-frequency and high-sensitivity operation. According to the measurements, the optical switching energy scales with area and equals to 15 aJ/μm
²
. The smallest pair with mesas of 10×15 μm
²
operates with 2.6 fJ of light input. Sub-femtojoule optical switching energy is expected in the near future.