A novel A/D converter using resonant tunneling diodes

A large-signal resonant tunneling diode (RTD) model is used to simulate the performance of a 2-b A/D converter. Results from the theoretical analysis, the breadboard circuit demonstration, and the SPICE3 simulation are discussed. It is shown that the unique folding characteristics of the vertically integrated RTD greatly reduce the complexity of the A/D converter circuit, making analog-to-digital conversion at tens-of-gigahertz rates possible.<
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