January 17, 2025 /SemiMedia/ — ROHM has begun offering samples of the industry’s smallest terahertz (THz) wave oscillation and detection devices utilizing semiconductor elements known as Resonant Tunneling Diodes (RTDs). Terahertz waves are anticipated to be applied to non-destructive testing, imaging, and sensing in the medical and healthcare sectors, as well as potentially future ultra-fast communication technologies. Providing these devices contributes to the advancement of terahertz wave applications.
ROHM has developed a 0.5mm × 0.5mm RTD chip for terahertz wave generation and detection, capable of oscillating and detecting terahertz waves at a frequency of 320GHz (typ.) with an output power ranging from 10 to 20µW. ROHM will begin offering samples of this RTD element mounted in a PLCC package (4.0mm × 4.3mm) commonly used for LEDs. With an extremely compact size, typically than one-thousandth that of conventional oscillators, this innovation enables easy development of terahertz wave applications, even in space-constrained environments.
By positioning the antenna surfaces of the oscillation and detection devices facing each other 10mm apart, a dynamic range of 40dB (typ.) can be achieved. Both oscillator and detector maintain a drive power consumption of 10mW (typ.), while their ability to oscillate and detect terahertz waves at room temperature eliminates the need for cooling equipment required with some conventional methods. These compact, power-saving devices are almost unaffected by the operating environment, enabling use in a wide range of applications.
ROHM offers samples of terahertz wave oscillation and detection devices at a sample price of $990.0/unit (excluding tax), which is less than one-tenth the price of conventional devices. ROHM also provides evaluation kits that include an evaluation board and other components, allowing users to easily integrate the devices into a research and development environment.
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