A quantum field effect transistor (QFET) is a theoretical or experimental class of transistor that relies on quantum mechanical properties, such as tunneling or quantum dots, rather than bulk charge movement. By shrinking the channel dimensions to the nanometer scale, these devices exploit discrete energy levels to switch states. Researchers develop QFETs to overcome the physical scaling limits and leakage currents of conventional CMOS technology.
The lab is characterizing a new QFET structure that operates reliably at room temperature.
Related terms
FET
A field-effect transistor controls the flow of electrical current using an electric field.
MOSFET
A metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor is a voltage-controlled switch used to amplify or switch electronic signals.
CMOS
Complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor is the dominant fabrication technology for integrated circuits.