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Increased reliability - a single chip compare to several microwave chips results in less interconnections. Lower numbers of chips means higher reliability.
About
Chip-scale atomic clocks are currently finding adoption in the US miltary with prototypes being built into GPS navigation systems for testing. Miltary applications could also include adoption into battery powered mobile devices for secure communications. As component prices fall adoption is likely in consumer-based products such as cell phones and GPS systems. Beyond the miniaturised market there may also be opportunities for the technology to be utilised in space applications such as satellite GPS and in highly sensitive micro magnetometers as a replacment for expensive and difficult to use cyrogenic systems used in specialised medical imaging systems. A new type of Optoelectronic Integrated circuit (OEIC) has been developed at the University. It uses a Resonant Tunnelling Diode integrated with a laser diode (the RTD-LD) as an optoelectronic voltage controlled oscillator (OVCO). The single chip laser combined with a microwave modulator is suitable for use in an atomic clock that can be used in battery powered devices. This innovation will potentially take miniature atomics down to the next level - micro atomic clocks. IP Status The University has filed a patent application for the technology and is working on the development of a fully functioning technology demonstration and is looking for commercial partners to develop the technology further.
Key Benefits
Reduced size -the clocks will not longer need board ontaining the microwave modulation chips Reduced power requirements -the power suppling the laser will be combined with power driving the microwave modulation saving 65mW of power in the latest atomic clock designs that now use 125mW so a saving of more than 50% Increased reliability - a single chip compare to several microwave chips results in less interconnections. Lower numbers of chips means higher reliability. Chip laser/mircowave modulator would operate at room temperature with consequent cost savings for system design & operation.
Applications
This technology could be adopted for military applications and consumer-based products such as cell phones and GPS systems.