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Tiny wireless device shines light on mouse brain, generating reward

Scientists developed tiny devices containing light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to activate brain cells with light. Using these devices, mice were taught to poke their noses through a hole in a maze, triggering the system to release dopamine and associate rewards, revealing potential for treating depression, anxiety, and addiction.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateApr 11, 2013

A bright idea: Tiny injectable LEDs help neuroscientists study the brain

Researchers developed ultrathin, flexible optoelectronic devices, including LEDs the size of individual neurons, to illuminate brain mysteries. These devices enable precise control and direct interaction with brain tissue, opening up new ways for neuroscientists to study complex behaviors and neural circuits.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience·DateApr 11, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A step toward optical transistors?

McGill researchers demonstrate ability to modulate light using laser-pulse inputs to manipulate quantum mechanical state of semiconductor nanocrystals. This breakthrough could lead to the development of optical transistors, which would enable faster and more efficient data processing in telecommunications networks.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 9, 2013

Penn engineers enable 'bulk' silicon to emit visible light for the first time

For the first time, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have successfully enabled 'bulk' silicon to emit broad-spectrum, visible light. This breakthrough enables the use of elemental silicon in both electronic and photonic components, paving the way for more efficient and integrated devices.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Photonics·DateMar 27, 2013

Light from silicon nanocrystal LEDs

Researchers from KIT and the University of Toronto have successfully manufactured highly efficient light-emitting diodes using silicon nanocrystals. The SiLEDs can produce light in various colors and have a surprising long-term stability, making them an attractive alternative to existing LEDs.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 22, 2013

Light-emitting bioprobe fits in a single cell

Researchers at Stanford have developed a light-emitting probe that can be injected into individual cells without harm. The device uses photonic cavities to amplify light and detect specific biomolecules, paving the way for real-time sensing and monitoring of cellular biology.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 13, 2013

Light-emitting triangles may have applications in optical technology

Researchers at Penn State have successfully created single layers of the rare mineral tungstenite, forming triangular structures that exhibit photoluminescent properties. These findings hold promise for various optical technologies, including light detection and laser technology.

SourcePenn State·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 5, 2013
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.

New options for transparent contact electrodes

Researchers are developing new transparent contact electrodes using materials like graphene and carbon nanostructures, which offer improved conductivity and transparency compared to traditional metal oxides. These new materials have the potential to be combined with conventional solutions or used in entirely new applications.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Photonics·DateJan 29, 2013

UGA researchers invent new material for warm-white LEDs

The University of Georgia scientists have fabricated the world's first LED that emits a warm white light using a single phosphor with a single emitting center. The new material achieves a warm color temperature while maintaining accurate color rendition, ideal for indoor lighting.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·DateJan 18, 2013

Scientists mimic fireflies to make brighter LEDs

Researchers developed a bio-inspired coating that enhances LED light extraction by up to 55 percent. The innovative design mimics the natural structure of firefly lanterns, which reduces internal reflections and allows more light to escape, ultimately making LEDs brighter while using less energy.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateJan 8, 2013
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Antenna-on-a-chip rips the light fantastic

The Rice team's device can modulate a signal at more than 10 gigabits per second, making it suitable for real-time video processing and high-speed data throughput. This breakthrough has the potential to scale up the capability of optical information processing systems by several magnitudes.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 16, 2012

LEDs winning light race to save energy, the environment

A new report from DOE's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and N14 Energy Limited reveals LEDs are more environmentally friendly than CFLs and incandescent lights. The study found that as technology improves, LEDs will continue to gain an edge, with potential for a 50% reduction in environmental impacts within five years.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateSep 5, 2012

Researchers almost double light efficiency in LC projectors

The new technology allows approximately 90% of unpolarized light to be polarized and used by the projector, reducing heat generation and enabling more compact designs. This innovation has significant implications for LC projectors, including longer battery life and increased brightness with reduced power consumption.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalApplied Optics·DateJul 16, 2012
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.

University of Utah physicists invent 'spintronic' LED

Researchers developed a new spin-polarized organic LED (spin OLED) that can be brighter than regular organic LEDs, producing an orange color. The device uses a unique property called spin to transmit information, enabling the creation of 'spintronic' technology.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience·DateJul 12, 2012

White LEDs directly on paper

Scientists successfully grow nanorods of zinc oxide on a thin layer of polydiethylflourene, creating white LEDs that can be printed on paper or wallpaper for display purposes. This breakthrough method uses chemical methods and has the potential to enable mass production of flexible electronics.

SourceLinköping University·Journalphysica status solidi (RRL) - Rapid Research Letters·DateJul 10, 2012

Relocating LEDs from silicon to copper enhances efficiency

Researchers have successfully transferred gallium nitride LEDs from silicon to copper substrates, reducing the quantum confined stark effect and increasing light output. The new substrate design eliminates absorptive materials, electrode shading, and improves crystal orientation, leading to enhanced efficiency and crack-free structures.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 14, 2012

'Metamaterials,' quantum dots show promise for new technologies

Scientists have developed a new type of nanostructured metamaterial that can dramatically change the properties of light, leading to potential breakthroughs in advanced solar cells and quantum computing. The metamaterial combines layers of silver and titanium oxide with tiny quantum dots, resulting in hyperbolic light behavior.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScience·DateMay 24, 2012
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Conquering LED efficiency droop

Researchers from California and Japan have devised a new LED design that avoids efficiency droop, a major problem limiting solid-state lighting growth. The breakthrough could lead to more energy-efficient and affordable LED lighting, with potential applications in household bulbs.

SourceOptica·DateApr 30, 2012
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Light-emitting nanocrystal diodes go ultraviolet

A team of researchers has created glass-based inorganic LEDs that produce light in the ultraviolet range, paving the way for implantable biomedical devices. The new devices are scalable, chemically stable, and can be used in harsh environments, making them suitable for applications such as medical diagnostics and treatment.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 24, 2012

MIT research: A new twist on nanowires

Researchers at MIT have developed a method to precisely control the width and composition of nanowires as they grow, enabling complex structures optimally designed for specific applications. This technique could facilitate new semiconductor devices with better functionality than conventional thin-film devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 21, 2012

Stanford engineers weld nanowires with light

Researchers at Stanford have created a novel nanowire welding technique using plasmonics that enables precise heating without damaging the wires. This breakthrough allows for the production of stronger, more efficient meshes for various electronic devices and solar applications.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 5, 2012

Building a better light bulb

Researchers created an organic LED light with a warm white color near point A and high color stability by adjusting layer heights. The final OLED has improved performance compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateFeb 1, 2012
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

LED lights point shoppers in the right direction

Researchers from Penn State and Hallym University developed a system that uses LED lights to provide locational information, enabling shoppers to quickly find items in large stores. The hybrid system combines radio frequency transmitters with overhead LED lights to provide accurate location data.

SourcePenn State·DateJan 26, 2012

How long do electrons live in graphene?

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf have measured the lifetime of electrons in graphene in lower energy ranges. The study reveals that the energy of light particles and atomic lattice oscillations influence electron lifetimes, with longer lifetimes observed when excitation energies are lower than lattice oscillations.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 12, 2011

Stanford engineers use nanophotonics to reshape on-chip computer data transmission

Researchers at Stanford University have created a single-mode light-emitting diode (LED) that is thousands of times more energy efficient than laser-based systems. The device can transmit data at 10 billion bits per second and operates at room temperature, making it a major step forward for on-chip computer data transmission.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 15, 2011
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Unique bipolar compounds enhance functionality of organic electronics

University of Toronto researchers identify a new class of compounds with phthalimido molecular fragments, exhibiting unique electro-chemical properties. These compounds have the potential to execute all three tasks needed for a functional organic solar cell, including absorbing light, moving electrons and transporting holes.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 4, 2011

Researchers roll out a new form of lighting

Researchers have created thin, flexible sheets of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) using a low-cost 'roll-to-roll' printing process. This technology could revolutionize lighting by being used for everything from home and office tiles to windows that simulate sunrise and sunset.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateNov 1, 2011
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

High-quality white light produced by four-color laser source

A recent study conducted by Sandia National Laboratories found that diode lasers can produce high-quality white light comparable to LEDs, which may lead to new lighting technologies. The research used a test involving volunteers and different lighting sources, including LED bulbs, incandescent lights, and diode laser combinations.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalOptics Express·DateOct 26, 2011

Space debris, more efficient LEDs, and thinner, cheaper solar cells

Researchers are developing cutting-edge solutions for renewable energy and environmental research, including thousands of sensors to monitor climate change, novel LED designs that boost efficiency, and thinner solar cells. These innovations aim to make space safer by tracking space debris and improve energy sustainability.

SourceOptica·DateOct 25, 2011

Cancer detection from an implantable, flexible LED

A KAIST research team developed a biocompatible, flexible GaN LED that can detect prostate cancer, opening the door for implantable biomedical applications. The technology utilizes a highly efficient and flexible light-emitting device to diagnose diseases, potentially revolutionizing medical treatments.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNano Energy·DateSep 19, 2011

Dangers of exposure to 'white' light

A new international study reveals that 'white' light bulbs emit shorter wavelengths that suppress melatonin production, causing behavior disruptions and health problems. The researchers recommend limiting the use of 'white' light, adjusting lampposts to reduce light pollution, and using energy-efficient lighting.

SourceUniversity of Haifa·JournalJournal of Environmental Management·DateSep 11, 2011
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.

Manufacturing method paves way for commercially viable quantum dot-based LEDs

Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a novel manufacturing process for quantum dot-based LEDs, reducing production costs and improving efficiency. The breakthrough enables the large-scale commercialization of these energy-efficient lights, potentially replacing traditional incandescent and fluorescent bulbs.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 31, 2011

Caltech-led engineers solve longstanding problem in photonic chip technology

Researchers designed a new type of optical waveguide that isolates light signals on a silicon chip, solving a long-standing problem in engineering photonic chips. This breakthrough enables the creation of integrated nanoscale photonic devices and components for future integrated information systems.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 4, 2011

Light bulb phase-out offers new role for unsung heroes of electronics revolution

The US phase-out of 100-watt bulbs is driving growth for light-emitting diodes (LEDs) which have become ubiquitous in everyday life. LEDs now replace fluorescent lights as backlights in cell phones and laptops, and are poised to become an alternative to incandescents and fluorescents in home lighting.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJul 13, 2011

Improving LED lighting

Researchers have created a smaller, flexible LED light with improved thermal management and increased life-span. The device uses novel manufacturing techniques to reduce temperature and increase efficiency, making it suitable for various applications such as deformable display monitors and biomedical devices.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2011
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.

Zeroing in on the elusive green LED

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new method for manufacturing green-colored LEDs with significantly enhanced light extraction, internal efficiency, and light output. This breakthrough brings the team closer to their goal of developing high-performance, low-cost green LEDs.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 25, 2011

LED efficiency puzzle solved by UC Santa Barbara theorists

UC Santa Barbara researchers identify Auger recombination as the mechanism behind LED droop, a drop in efficiency when operating at high powers. They propose using thicker quantum wells or growing devices along non-polar directions to minimize this loss mechanism.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 19, 2011
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 kid on the plasmonic block

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have demonstrated localized surface plasmon resonances in doped semiconductor quantum dots, opening up possibilities for plasmonic sensing and manipulation of solid-state processes. This discovery extends the range of candidate materials for plasmonics to include semiconductors, offering advantages such as d...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 18, 2011

University of Toronto researchers 'brighten' the future of OLED technology

Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a new method to improve OLED efficiency by using a one-atom thick layer of chlorine. This innovation enables record efficiencies of up to 50% at high brightness levels, making it a promising technology for future flat-panel displays and lighting applications.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalScience·DateApr 14, 2011

Researchers advance toward hybrid spintronic computer chips

Hybrid spintronic computer chips are being developed using a combination of inorganic and organic materials. The new technology could lead to computers that require less power and produce less heat, enabling instant on and flexibility. This breakthrough promises significant advances in information processing.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 13, 2011

New device promises safer way to deliver powerful drugs

Researchers have developed a new drug delivery device that uses optical fibers to target specific areas of the body, reducing toxicity and side effects. The device is designed to deliver high-powered photosensitive chemicals directly to tumors or infected areas, potentially killing cancer cells and bacteria.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateApr 6, 2011
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Self-administered light therapy may improve cognitive function after traumatic brain injury

A new study found that daily application of light therapy via LEDs on the forehead and scalp improved cognitive function in patients with traumatic brain injury. The treatment led to substantial improvements in memory, inhibition, and attention, enabling one patient to return to full-time work.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalPhotomedicine and Laser Surgery·DateMar 17, 2011

LED products billed as eco-friendly contain toxic metals, study finds

Researchers at UC Irvine found that low-intensity red LEDs contained up to eight times the allowed amount of lead, while high-intensity bulbs had more contaminants. White bulbs had the least lead but high amounts of nickel, highlighting the need for safer alternatives and stricter testing regulations.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 10, 2011

Engineers grow nanolasers on silicon, pave way for on-chip photonics

Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a method to grow nanolasers directly onto a silicon surface, enabling highly efficient silicon photonics. This breakthrough could lead to powerful biochemical sensors and faster microprocessors, as well as new applications in computing, communications, displays, and optical signal processing.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Photonics·DateFeb 6, 2011
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.

Voiding defects: New technique makes LED lighting more efficient

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new technique to reduce defects in gallium nitride (GaN) films used in LED lighting, increasing efficiency by a factor of two. The technique involves embedding voids in the film, which traps defects and prevents them from traveling through the material.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJan 25, 2011

Growing nanowires horizontally yields new benefit: 'nano-LEDs'

Researchers at NIST developed a surface-directed method for growing nanowires horizontally, producing nano-LEDs with improved properties. The technique enables easy localization of individual heterojunctions on the surface, making it suitable for various applications.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 29, 2010
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.