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Electron highway inside crystal

Physicists at the University of Würzburg have discovered a new electronic state in topological crystalline insulators, creating conductive channels for electrical currents. The channels are narrow and robust, making the materials suitable for ultra-fast and energy-efficient computers.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience·DateDec 8, 2016
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Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

NIST collaboration heats up exotic topological insulators

Researchers from NIST and UCLA have successfully created exotic topological insulators with improved stability at room temperature by infusing magnetic materials. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient quantum computers and other electronic devices that harness unique properties of electrons.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 31, 2016

Two-dimensional spin-orbit coupling for Bose-Einstein condensates realized

Researchers from China and Peking University pioneered the proposal and realization of two-dimensional spin-orbit coupling for ultracold quantum gases. This achievement has significant influence on understanding exotic topological quantum states, implementing a major breakthrough in solid materials research.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateOct 11, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Surprising qualities of insulator ring surfaces

Researchers have discovered that ring-shaped topological insulators display characteristics similar to those in spherical materials. The study reveals a zero-energy state on the surface of ring-shaped insulators and a coupling between charge carriers and curvature, leading to gauge fields and unique electron spin behavior.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJun 29, 2016

'Weak' materials offer strong possibilities for electronics

Researchers have discovered a new type of weak topological insulator, made from bismuth combined with iodine or bromine, which could lead to significant advances in technology. The material's unique properties make it an attractive option for creating new transistor-like technologies and powering quantum computers.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 31, 2016

Spintronics for future information technologies

Researchers have successfully controlled spin currents in topological insulators using circularly polarised laser light, opening the door for ultra-energy efficient data processing. The findings, published in Physical Review B, demonstrate the potential of these materials for spintronic applications.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhysical Review B·DateApr 29, 2016

Topological insulators: Magnetism is not causing loss of conductivity

Researchers have shown that magnetism does not cause topological insulators to lose their conductivity. Instead, they found a band gap that is significantly larger than predicted by theory and involves a different causal mechanism. The study suggests that scattering processes may be responsible for opening the band gap.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 19, 2016
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SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Spintronics, low-energy electricity take a step closer

EPFL scientists have identified a new class of topological insulators, with bismuth iodide as the first representative material. Its atomic structure is unique and has fewer natural defects than previously known materials.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 14, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Stacking instead of mixing

Scientists at Jülich and Aachen have developed a method to control the conducting properties of topological insulators more precisely. By stacking materials instead of mixing, they optimized conductivity and reduced energy requirements. This breakthrough could lead to faster and more efficient computers and mobile phones.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 17, 2015

Scientists paint quantum electronics with beams of light

Researchers at University of Chicago and Pennsylvania State University have discovered a method to 'paint' quantum electronic circuits using beams of light, allowing for rewritable devices without nanofabrication. This breakthrough enables faster and easier experimentation with fragile quantum materials.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 9, 2015

Chance effect of lab's fluorescent lights leads to discovery

Scientists at Penn State and University of Chicago discovered a new way to use light to draw and erase quantum-mechanical circuits on topological insulators, allowing for non-invasive and faster experimentation. The technique uses ultraviolet and bright red light to manipulate the electronic properties of these materials.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 9, 2015

Soundproofing with quantum physics

Researchers have successfully applied topological insulator principles to mechanical systems, creating edge states that exhibit robust, 'topologically protected' properties. These properties make them suitable for applications in sound and vibration insulation, as well as focusing sound like a lens.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2015

Quantum 'gruyères' for spintronics of the future

Researchers at SISSA propose a new family of materials whose topological state can be directly observed, simplifying the development of spintronics and quantum computing. The discovery uses mathematical models and simulations to identify materials with 'spectacular' features that are easily detected.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 12, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Quantization of 'surface Dirac states' could lead to exotic applications

Researchers at RIKEN have successfully demonstrated the integer quantum Hall effect in a new type of film, known as a 3D topological insulator. By quantizing surface Dirac states, they overcame limitations that had hindered previous efforts to harness these materials for low-power consumption electronics.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 14, 2015

Important step towards quantum computing: Metals at atomic scale

Researchers have found that electric current flows unimpeded through tiny channels on the surface of certain metals, reducing energy losses and enabling novel information processing techniques. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of new electronic devices and quantum computing systems.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 2, 2015

Self-destructive effects of magnetically-doped ferromagnetic topological insulators

A new study reveals extreme disorder in a fundamental property of the surface electrons known as the Dirac mass in ferromagnetic topological insulators. The research found that the disorder is directly related to fluctuations in the density of magnetic dopant atoms on different parts of the crystal surface.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 19, 2015
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.

45-year physics mystery shows a path to quantum transistors

Physicists at the University of Michigan have discovered samarium hexaboride, a topological insulator that could enable quantum computers and other next-generation electronics. The material's properties include rare Dirac electrons with potential applications in qubit development.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience·DateDec 5, 2014

University of Utah engineers unlock potential for faster computing

Researchers have discovered a way to create a metal layer on silicon that can lead to faster computing without overheating. The new topological insulator could enable the development of quantum computers and spintronic devices that are billions of times faster than conventional computers.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 22, 2014
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Spin-based electronics: New material successfully tested

Scientists demonstrate SmB6's insulating properties with 100% efficiency at low temperatures, marking a breakthrough in spintronics technology. The discovery paves the way for new electronic technologies that utilize electron spin, which is a key property of topological insulators.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 30, 2014

The birth of topological spintronics

Researchers at Penn State and Cornell University have discovered a new material combination that can control magnetic memory or logic 10 times more efficiently than current methods. The discovery uses topological insulators to manipulate spin orientation, overcoming a key challenge in developing spintronics technology.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateJul 23, 2014

Controlling electron spins by light

Topological insulators exhibit metallic conducting states at their surface, with electron spin playing a crucial role. Researchers have discovered that light can systematically manipulate the spin of electrons in these materials, opening up new possibilities for optospintronic devices.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhysical Review X·DateMar 27, 2014

Research brings new control over topological insulator

Researchers have shown that tensile strain can lift topological order and compressive strain can shift the Dirac point in Bi2Se3 films, enhancing or destroying Dirac states. This breakthrough suggests new ways to control TI electronic properties by applying stress.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 20, 2014
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.

Theorists predict new forms of exotic insulating materials

Researchers at MIT predict the existence of six new types of topological insulators with unusual properties, which may provide insights into quantum physics. The team's analysis reveals that these materials' physical properties can be identified unambiguously in a lab.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 6, 2014

Will 2-D tin be the next super material?

Researchers have predicted that a single layer of tin atoms, dubbed 'stanene,' will exhibit 100% electrical conductivity at room temperature. This breakthrough has the potential to significantly reduce power consumption and heat production in future computer chips.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 21, 2013

Persuading light to mix it up with matter

MIT researchers have achieved a significant breakthrough by coupling photons and electrons in a topological insulator material for the first time. This novel approach enables the creation of materials whose electronic properties can be 'tuned' in real-time using precise laser beams.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateOct 24, 2013
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.

Quantum conductors benefit from growth on smooth foundations

Researchers in the US and China have grown two types of topological insulator materials on smooth and rough surfaces, showing promise for high-speed computing. The discovery could lead to faster, more efficient computers without energy dissipation.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateOct 14, 2013

New multifunctional topological insulator material with combined superconductivity

Researchers have discovered a new material that combines the properties of topological insulators and superconductors, with a large energy gap and potential applications in quantum computing and spintronics. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of next-generation electronic devices.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 25, 2013

On the road to fault-tolerant quantum computing

Researchers from China's Tsinghua University and the US Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have demonstrated high-temperature superconductivity in a topological insulator. This breakthrough is essential for creating 'fault-tolerant' quantum computers, which can solve complex problems much faster than current m...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 16, 2013

New magnetic semiconductor material holds promise for 'spintronics'

Researchers at North Carolina State University have created a new compound, strontium tin oxide (Sr3SnO), that can be integrated into silicon chips and exhibits dilute magnetic semiconductor properties. This material could enable the development of spin-based devices, or spintronics, which rely on magnetic forces to operate.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateSep 10, 2013
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.

Novel topological crystalline insulator shows mass appeal

Researchers successfully introduced mass into Dirac electrons, a crucial step towards understanding topological crystalline insulators. The discovery provides new insights into the electronic behavior of these materials and paves the way for novel functionalities at the nanoscale.

SourceBoston College·JournalScience·DateAug 29, 2013

Scientists find asymmetry in topological insulators

Researchers found that topological insulators behave asymmetrically at the sub-atomic level, which could lead to significant improvements in energy efficiency for quantum computers. The discovery was made using first-principles calculations and observations taken at the Advanced Light Source.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 13, 2013

An easier way to make a topological insulator for advanced electronics

Physicists at U-M create topological insulators by doping bismuth telluride with thallium, enabling control over electrical conductivity and unique surface properties. The new approach reveals the properties of the surface states, opening doors to applications in quantum computing and Majorana fermions.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPhysical Review B·DateJul 18, 2013

Milwaukee-York researchers forward quest for quantum computing

Researchers from UW-Milwaukee and University of York investigate ultra-thin films of new materials, aiming to create a materials platform for quantum computers. The team found that the unique properties of topological insulators can be modified by intrinsic defects, opening up new possibilities for spintronics.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 23, 2013
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Interdisciplinary team demonstrates superconducting qualities of topological insulators

An interdisciplinary team has successfully depleted electrons from the bulk of topological insulators, demonstrating superconducting surface states. This breakthrough enables experimentation with TIs and paves the way for investigating the Majorana quasiparticle, a fermion that could serve as a quantum bit in quantum computing.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2013

First discovery of a natural topological insulator

Researchers identify Kawazulite as a natural topological insulator, which conducts electricity on its surface and acts as an insulator inside. This discovery could pave the way for faster quantum computers.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 7, 2013

Engineers show feasibility of superfast materials

Engineers at the University of Utah have shown that it is feasible to create organic topological insulators, which can conduct electricity on their edges but act as an insulator inside. This discovery could enable faster-than-light information transfer in quantum computers and spintronics devices.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 13, 2013
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.

Physicists take photonic topological insulators to the next level

Physicists at the University of Texas at Austin have designed a simulation that emulates key properties of electronic topological insulators. The simulation, called SPINDOMs, allows researchers to control the spin of photons in a way that emulates what can be done with electrons.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 21, 2012

A new route to dissipationless electronics

Researchers at RIKEN have demonstrated a new material that can eliminate loss in electrical power transmission, opening the door to energy-efficient electronics. The discovery uses magnetic topological insulators, which exhibit unique properties that allow for dissipationless electricity channels.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Physics·DateAug 19, 2012

Beyond the high-speed hard drive: Topological insulators open a path to room-temperature spintronics

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have demonstrated unique new materials for innovative electronic and magnetic applications. Bismuth selenide's surface electrons flow at room temperature, making it an attractive candidate for spintronics devices and quantum computers. The material's low electron-phonon coupling also underlines its practical...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 14, 2012
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.

Rice physicists move 1 step closer to quantum computer

Researchers at Rice University have created a tiny 'electron superhighway' that could be useful for building a quantum computer. The device, which acts as an electron superhighway, is one of the building blocks needed to create quantum particles that store and manipulate data.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 4, 2011

JQI physicists demonstrate coveted 'spin-orbit coupling' in atomic gases

Physicists at JQI successfully demonstrated spin-orbit coupling in a gas of bosonic rubidium atoms, opening new possibilities for studying fundamental physics. The technique also showed promise for creating novel interactions between fermions, which could lead to breakthroughs in topological quantum computation and superconductivity.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature·DateMar 2, 2011
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Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Seeking dark matter on a desktop

Theoretical results suggest that small blocks of matter on a desktop could reveal elusive properties of dark matter particles. Researchers propose using topological insulators to detect the axion, a theoretical particle thought to make up a quarter of the universe.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateMar 15, 2010

New exotic material could revolutionize electronics

Physicists have confirmed the existence of a type of material that enables free flow of electrons across its surface with no loss of energy at room temperatures. The discovery of bismuth telluride as a topological insulator could lead to new applications in spintronics and microchip development.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·DateJun 15, 2009