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New transistor could cut 5% from world’s digital energy budget

A new magneto-electric transistor has been developed by researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University at Buffalo. The design can reduce energy consumption by up to 75% and retain memory in event of power loss, making it a promising alternative to silicon-based transistors.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 11, 2022

Honey holds potential for making brain-like computer chips

Researchers at Washington State University have demonstrated a way to make memristors using honey, which can mimic the work of human synapses and process data in memory. The honey memristor chips could lead to the development of neuromorphic computing systems that function like the human brain.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Physics D Applied Physics·DateApr 5, 2022

Graphene gets enhanced by flashing

Rice University researchers have developed a customizing method for producing doped graphene with tailored structures and electronic states. The doping process adds elements to the 2D carbon matrix, making it suitable for use in nanodevices such as fuel cells and batteries.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Physicists show how frequencies can easily be multiplied without special circuitry

Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg discovered a way to convert frequencies to higher ranges using magnetic materials without additional components. This breakthrough could make certain electronic components obsolete and improve the energy efficiency of digital technologies.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2022

Live wire: new research on nanoelectronics

A study by Arizona State University shows that certain proteins can act as efficient electrical conductors, outperforming DNA-based nanowires in conductance. The protein nanowires display better performance over long distances, enabling potential applications for medical sensing and diagnostics.

SourceArizona State University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2022

€16 million for photonic quantum processors

A €16 million project, PhotonQ, is developing a photonic quantum processor to process qubits and reduce error rates. The processor will enable rapid scaling to relevant qubit numbers for practical applications.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateFeb 1, 2022

2D materials could be used to simulate brain synapses in computers

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Stanford University have developed a material that enables the commercial viability of neuromorphic computers mimicking the human brain. The material, MXene, combines high speed, temperature stability, and integration compatibility in a single device.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJan 28, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Edge processing research takes Surrey discovery closer to use in artificial intelligence networks

Researchers at the University of Surrey have successfully demonstrated the use of multimodal transistors in artificial neural networks, achieving practically identical classification accuracy as pure ReLU implementations. The study paves the way for thin-film decision and classification circuits, which could be used in more complex AI ...

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalScientific Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 17, 2022

World’s smallest microelectronic catheter for minimally invasive surgery of the future

A team of researchers from Chemnitz University of Technology, IFW Dresden, and Max Planck Institute CBG presents a new type of biomedical tool with a tiny biocompatible microelectronic micro-catheter. The catheter has sensor and actuator functions integrated into its wall, making it highly flexible and adaptable to the body.

SourceChemnitz University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2021

A new platform for controlled design of printed electronics with 2D materials

Researchers have developed a new platform to design printed electronics with 2D materials, enabling the creation of high-performance flexible devices. The study identified key properties that need to be tweaked to control electronic charge transport, opening up possibilities for wearable devices, bio-implantable electronics and more.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Electronics·DateDec 21, 2021
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

NTU Singapore scientists develop biodegradable printed paper batteries

Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed biodegradable zinc batteries made of cellulose paper that can power flexible electronics and biomedical sensors. The batteries are non-toxic, do not require aluminum or plastic casings, and can be buried in soil to break down within weeks.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateDec 14, 2021

Why the world needs a better LED light bulb

Researchers have developed a new light-emitting material that doubles the intensity of existing LEDs while also being more energy-efficient. The material, cerium-doped zinc oxide, has the potential to be used in commercial LED lighting applications and could make lighting more affordable for households and businesses worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalJournal of Luminescence·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Making waves: A contactless way to detect damage in transparent materials

Researchers create a novel framework for generating and detecting Lamb waves in transparent materials without damaging the sample. They use laser-induced plasma shock waves and high-speed polarization cameras to spot microscopic scratches, demonstrating potential for non-contact damage detection.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalOptics and Lasers in Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 29, 2021

Will twisted superconducting flakes make better components for quantum computers?

Researchers have developed ultra-thin, defect-free superconducting flakes for use in quantum computing. The twist angle of the flakes is used to modulate the maximum supercurrent, creating an extremely sensitive magnetic field sensor. This breakthrough has potential applications in healthcare and mineral exploration.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2021

Capturing light: New ergonomic photodetector for the trillion-sensor era

Researchers at Incheon National University have developed a compact and robust optical sensor that can convert light to digital signals, suitable for flexible electronics. The new design architecture enables superior chip area efficiency and large-area scalability.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Towards more energy-efficient 2D semiconductor devices

Researchers from SUTD discover a family of 2D semiconductors with Ohmic contacts, reducing electrical resistance and generating less waste heat. This breakthrough could pave the way for high-performance and energy-efficient electronics, potentially replacing silicon-based technology.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·Journalnpj 2D Materials and Applications·DateSep 15, 2021

Stretching the capacity of flexible energy storage (video)

Scientists create a flexible supercapacitor using wrinkled titanium carbide nanosheets that maintains its ability to store and release electronic charges after repetitive stretching. The device has a high energy capacity comparable to existing MXene-based supercapacitors, but with extreme stretchability up to 800% without cracking.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 8, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Highly conductive and elastic nanomembrane for skin electronics

Researchers at IBS developed a novel composite material consisting of metal nanowires within an ultrathin rubber film. The float assembly method creates a monolayer of nanowires in the rubber film, resulting in excellent physical properties such as high stretchability and metal-like conductivity.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Home-grown semiconductors for faster, smaller electronics

Researchers create transistors with an ultra-thin metal gate grown as part of the semiconductor crystal, eliminating oxidation scattering. This design improves device performance in high-frequency applications, quantum computing, and qubit applications.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2021

Scientists offer new insights on computer power growth, past and future

Researchers at The Rockefeller University have revealed a more nuanced historical wave pattern to the rise of transistor density in silicon chips. The study highlights six waves of improvements, each lasting about six years, with significant increases in transistor density per chip.

SourceProgramme for the Human Environment, The Rockefeller University·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateAug 18, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Scalable quantum computing research supported by $2 million grant

A UC Riverside materials scientist has received a $2 million grant to improve the scalability of quantum computers, allowing them to operate at room temperature. The project aims to create design guidelines and manufacturing strategies for hybrid organic-inorganic structures that can produce quantum computers on a larger scale.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateAug 17, 2021

Scientists release new AI-based tools to accelerate functional electronic materials discovery

Scientists developed new AI-based tools to identify and study materials exhibiting a metal-insulator transition (MIT), which could lead to faster and more energy-efficient microelectronic devices. The tools provide a freely available database, online classifier, and new features for characterizing these materials.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 28, 2021

Taking microelectronics to a new dimension

Researchers from Fraunhofer ITWM and Technische Universität Kaiserslautern create a new photosensitive material that enables the fabrication of highly conductive microcomponents via direct laser writing. The approach demonstrates high material density and on-chip compatibility, offering vast potential for improving antenna performance.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMar 23, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Scientists develop an efficient way to produce low-cost heatsinks

Researchers at NUST MISIS create affordable heat sinks by mixing rubbers with silicon carbide, significantly reducing production costs. The new material can withstand temperatures up to 300°C and has potential applications in industry and electronics.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalPolymers·DateDec 21, 2020

Neuromorphic computing with memristors

Researchers study the role of memristors in neuromorphic computing to mimic biological brain architectures. Memristor devices can memorize current to reduce device size and increase processing speed.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateNov 27, 2020

Modeling organic-field effect transistors with a molecular resolution

Recent advances in OFET device models incorporate molecular-level parameters, enabling more accurate simulation of micrometer-sized devices. These models have improved the understanding of charge-transport mechanisms and provided insights into nonlinear current characteristics.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateOct 13, 2020

Great progress for electronic gadgets of the future

Scientists at Norwegian University of Science and Technology have found a way to control the conductivity of materials without affecting other properties. This breakthrough enables the creation of multifunctional devices using the same material.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 16, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Photonics researchers report breakthrough in miniaturizing light-based chips

Researchers at the University of Rochester have created the smallest electro-optical modulator yet, a key component of photonics-based chips. The breakthrough uses lithium niobate to control how light moves through its circuits, paving the way for larger-scale photonic integrated circuits with improved performance.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 27, 2020

Scientists develop approach to synthesize unconventional nanoalloys for electrocatalytic application

Researchers developed a new method to synthesize unconventional nanoalloys composed of immiscible metals, which showed superior performances in electrocatalytic reactions. The approach uses vapor-source technology and allows for control over composition and size, enabling the creation of cost-effective, highly active, and durable elect...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·DateAug 17, 2020

The new tattoo: Drawing electronics on skin

Researchers at University of Missouri discovered that pencils can conduct energy when drawing on paper, allowing for the creation of bioelectronic devices. The devices can be used for personal health monitoring, education, and remote research, offering a low-cost and simple alternative to existing commercial devices.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 13, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New materials for extra thin computer chips

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have discovered new materials to combine with 2D materials, enabling the creation of ultra-thin electronic components. The team found that special crystals containing fluorine atoms can be used as insulators, improving efficiency and speed.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 13, 2020

Flight tests show B61-12 compatible with F-15E Strike Eagle

The B61-12's compatibility with the F-15E was successfully demonstrated through a series of flight tests. The tests showed that the refurbished bomb worked as expected, with precision accuracy and proper functionality, increasing confidence in its reliability. The results meet all requirements for performance and safety.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateJun 9, 2020

NIST scientists create new recipe for single-atom transistors

Researchers at NIST create step-by-step method to produce atomic-scale devices, enabling precise control over quantum tunneling and entanglement. The technique has a nearly 100% success rate and lays the foundation for creating stable single-atom transistors with potential applications in quantum computing.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalCommunications Physics·DateMay 11, 2020
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

A current map for improving circuit design

Researchers at KAUST developed a practical method to visualize the magnitude and direction of current flow through magnetic thin films. By using skyrmions and magneto-optical Kerr microscopy, they directly mapped nonuniform electrical current distribution in layered platinum, cobalt, and tantalum materials.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 2, 2020

Hermetically sealed semi-conductors

Researchers have developed a new encapsulation technique to protect the electronic properties of sensitive materials like indium selenide and gallium selenide. The method uses hexagonal boron nitride to encase the material, preserving its performance and enabling its integration into electronic components.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 29, 2020

An ultrafast microscope for the quantum world

Scientists have created a high-speed camera for the quantum world, enabling the precise tracking of electron movements at a resolution of a few hundred attoseconds. This microscope can be used to analyze processes in tiny electronic components and molecules, providing valuable insights for developing faster and more efficient electronics.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateJan 29, 2020
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Toward safer disposal of printed circuit boards

A new method has been developed to remove harmful compounds from waste printed circuit boards. The technique, known as ball-milling, uses a rotating machine to grind up materials and reduce the presence of brominated flame retardants. By breaking down these potentially toxic substances, scientists aim to minimize environmental pollution.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJan 15, 2020

MIPT physicists find ways to overcome signal loss in magnonic circuits

Physicists from MIPT and Russian universities have developed a parametric model to predict optimal waveguide configurations for magnonic circuits. The research reveals that spin wave interference can cause significant signal loss, leading to a breakthrough in designing efficient magnonic logic elements.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJan 2, 2020
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Making tiny antennas for wearable electronics

Researchers have made the tiniest radio-frequency antennas reported yet, with thicknesses of about 1/100 of a human hair. The new antennas were created using extremely thin sheets of a 2D material and performed well in receiving and transmitting radio waves.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 20, 2019

The smell of old books could help preserve them

Researchers developed an electronic nose that can non-destructively detect odors emitted by books of different paper compositions and ages. The device distinguished between paper from cotton, linen, or wood, as well as identified acidic and yellowing papers.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateNov 13, 2019

Curved nanochannels allow independent tuning of charge and spin currents

Physicists at the University of Groningen created curved spin transport channels, enabling independent control over charge and spin currents. This discovery could lead to more energy-efficient electronics by allowing spin injectors and detectors to be integrated into modern 3D circuitry.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 30, 2019

Jumping the gap may make electronics faster

Researchers have developed a method to transfer information using surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs), enabling faster signal propagation in microelectronic chips. The technique, which uses multiple snapshots of electromagnetic fields, can potentially solve the problem of shrinking electronic components and improve the speed of chips.

SourcePenn State·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 26, 2019

Remaining switched on to silicon-based electronics

A research group at The University of Tokyo developed a more efficient insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), which can switch high voltages at lower operating voltages, reducing power consumption and increasing energy efficiency. The IGBT achieved stable switching at just 5V, a significant improvement over previous performance limits.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·DateJun 5, 2019
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Saving energy by taking a close look inside transistors

Researchers at FAU developed a simple yet accurate method to find interface defects in silicon carbide transistors. This allows for improved and shorter innovation cycles in developing more energy-saving power electronics.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalCommunications Physics·DateJan 10, 2019

Nano-sandwiching improves heat transfer, prevents overheating in nanoelectronics

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago developed a nano-sandwich technique to improve heat transfer between two-dimensional materials and silicon bases, reducing component failure due to overheating. By adding an ultra-thin layer of aluminum oxide, they were able to double energy transfer between the materials.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 12, 2018
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Graphene enables clock rates in the terahertz range

Researchers have demonstrated graphene's ability to convert electronic signals at gigahertz frequencies into signals at several times higher frequencies, paving the way for ultrafast graphene-based nanoelectronics. The breakthrough achieved using a novel terahertz radiation source enables efficient frequency multiplication in graphene.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature·DateSep 10, 2018

Integrating optical components into existing chip designs

A new technique allows for the assembly of optical and electronic components on separate layers of silicon, enabling the use of modern transistor technologies. This breakthrough increases the speed and reduces the power consumption of chips, which is crucial as transistors continue to rise in count.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateApr 19, 2018
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

New technology standard could shape the future of electronics design

Researchers at University of Southampton have discovered a way to enhance memristor performance, opening doors to new electronics design. They pushed the device to store up to 128 discernible memory states per switch, almost four times more than previously reported.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 24, 2018