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Putting a new spin on computing

Researchers develop protocol using existing technology to measure and manipulate magnetic spin of electrons for spintronics applications. This breakthrough aims to overcome limitations of conventional computing devices, such as power consumption and data loss.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 21, 2011

Biological molecules select their spin

Research by Prof. Ron Naaman and colleagues reveals that biological molecules, such as DNA, can discern between quantum states of spin, a phenomenon previously thought irrelevant to their function due to their size and temperature. This chiral property enables them to selectively interact with electrons carrying specific spins.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateMar 31, 2011

Is space like a chessboard?

Physicists at UCLA found that dividing space into discrete locations like a chessboard explains how point-like electrons manage to carry their intrinsic angular momentum. This concept, inspired by graphene's electronic properties, proposes that space at very small distances is segmented, rather than smooth.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 18, 2011

Computer memory takes a spin

Researchers at the University of Utah have successfully stored information in atomic nuclei for 112 seconds, a major breakthrough towards developing faster quantum computers. The new technique uses magnetic 'spins' in the centers of atoms to store and read data electronically.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience·DateDec 16, 2010

UBC researchers put a new spin on electrons

Researchers at the University of British Columbia have successfully controlled the spin of electrons using a ballistic technique, eliminating the need for external electric or magnetic fields. This breakthrough could lead to more powerful and energy-efficient electronic systems, including quantum information processing devices.

Device controls electron spin at room temperature

North Carolina State University scientists developed a GaMnN thin film-based device that manipulates both charge and spin of electrons at room temperature, surpassing previous devices which only functioned at -173°C. The new technology uses lower voltages to switch electron bias, improving semiconductor efficiency and speed.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 6, 2009

Stanford: Quantum computing spins closer

Researchers at Stanford University have successfully flipped the spin of an electron and measured its new position, a key step towards faster quantum computing. The experiment achieved this in about 100 times less time than previous techniques, using ultrafast lasers.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateNov 20, 2008

Fast quantum computer building block created

Scientists at University of Michigan and U.S. Naval Research Laboratory demonstrate a solid-state qubit that can be both 0 and 1 at the same time, enabling faster quantum computing and improved computer security. The breakthrough enables the creation of a code that would be impossible to crack with conventional computers.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 20, 2008

Toward plastic spin transistors

Researchers successfully controlled an electrical current using the 'spin' within electrons, a step toward building plastic semiconductor switches. However, highly efficient organic LEDs may only convert up to 25 percent of electricity into light, contrary to earlier estimates.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 17, 2008

Memory in artificial atoms

Scientists at University of Copenhagen develop carbon nanotube transistors that can function as magnetic memories. The discovery demonstrates direct electrical control over a single electron spin, opening doors to new data storage possibilities.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 7, 2008

Plenty of nothing: A hole new quantum spin

Scientists at the University of New South Wales create a new type of quantum wire that uses holes to carry electrical current, enabling control over magnetic properties and paving the way for spin-based transistors. This discovery has significant implications for high-speed electronics and quantum information technologies.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 26, 2006

A new step in spintronics

Researchers at University of Utah developed switch-like valves made from organic materials, increasing electrical current flow by 40%. The innovation paves the way for new electronic devices, including computer chips and sensors.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature·DateFeb 25, 2004