Development of highly sensitive diode, converts microwaves to electricity

A group of researchers developed a highly sensitive rectifying element in the form of a nanowire backward diode, which can covert low-power microwaves into electricity. The new technology is expected that the newly-developed nanowire backward diode will be applied in using plentiful ambient radio wave energy in 5G communications, serving as a stable power source of sensors and contributing to battery-free sensors.

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Light work for superconductors

For the first time researchers successfully used laser pulses to excite an iron-based compound into a superconducting state. This means it conducted electricity without resistance. The iron compound is a known superconductor at ultralow temperatures, but this method enables superconduction at higher temperatures. It is hoped this kind of research could greatly improve power efficiency in electrical equipment and electronic devices.

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Using light to speed up computation

Researchers have developed a type of processor called PAXEL, a device that can potentially bypass Moore's Law and increase the speed and efficiency of computing. Researchers looked at using light for the data transport step in integrated circuits, since photons are not subject to Moore's Law. Instead of integrated electronic circuits, much new development now involves photonic integrated circuits. The PAXEL accelerator takes this approach and uses power-efficient nanophotonics.

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Up-close and personal with neuronal networks

Researchers have developed an electronic chip that can perform high-sensitivity intracellular recording from thousands of connected neurons simultaneously. This breakthrough allowed them to map synaptic connectivity at an unprecedented level, identifying hundreds of synaptic connections.

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Even short-lived solar panels can be economically viable

A new study shows that, contrary to widespread belief within the solar power industry, new kinds of solar cells and panels don't necessarily have to last for 25 to 30 years in order to be economically viable in today's market.

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A new approach to touch-screen set-up position for best physical workload and visibility

This study aimed to propose a new method for a bi-objective optimization. Ten student participants used a touch screen at 3 different installation heights, 3 tilt angles and with 3 button sizes. The joint angles, while using a touch screen, were measured to estimate physical workload. With the subjective screen visibility determined, the Pareto optimal solution showed ranges of 1124-1251 mm height and 44.4-67.9° tilt angle for the optimal installation of touch screens.

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