A novel InGaP/GaAs S-shaped negative-differential-resistance (NDR) switch for multiple-valued logic applications

In this paper, a novel InGaP/GaAs multiple S-shaped negative-differential-resistance (NDR) switch based on a heterostructure-emitter bipolar transistor (HEBT) structure is fabricated and demonstrated. An interesting multiple NDR phenomenon resulting from an avalanche multiplication and successive two-stage barrier lowering process is observed under the inverted operation mode. The three-terminal-controlled and temperature-dependent NDR characteristics are also investigated. In addition, a typical transistor performance is found under the normal operation mode. Consequently, owing to the presented different stable operation points and transistor action, the studied device shows a good potential for multiple-valued logic and analog amplification circuit applications.