Source:thznetwork.org

    EUGENE, OR ¡ª 10/11/07 ¡ª Microtech Instruments announces availability of compact THz sources operating across spectral range from 100 GHz to 1.0 THz. Following initial demonstration in early 2005, performance of these devices has been substantially improved as a result of a joint development project between Microtech Instruments, Inc. and Virginia Diodes, Inc. The project was supported by DARPA SBIR program (topic number SB062-002).

    Hybrid electronic sources are comprised of a vacuum electronic tube, known as Backward Wave Oscillator (BWO), combined with frequency multipliers, based on solid state electronics. While BWOs offer good tunability and high power across THz spectral range, these devices become really bulky at higher frequencies. Hybrid electronic sources based on a low frequency (millimeter-wave) BWO maintain compact size, weight and power consumption while providing for broad spectral coverage.

    ¡°Extending operating range of a BWO by means of frequency multipliers greatly simplifies THz experimental systems,¡± commented Dr. Walter Hurlbut, senior scientist at Microtech Instruments. ¡°BWO tubes are tunable in a limited spectral range, typically 100-200 GHz, so our customers had to use several BWOs to cover the whole THz range. Hybrid electronic sources extend operating spectral range of a single low frequency BWO to almost 1000 GHz. Low frequency BWOs are also more reliable and do not require water cooling, which makes them more practical.¡±

    About Microtech Instruments, Inc.

    Microtech Instruments is a leading manufacturer of THz components and systems, including THz spectrometers, generators and detectors. Committed to innovation, Microtech collaborates with leading research organizations worldwide.

    For more information, visit www.mtinstruments.com or contact Megan Misiti at sales@mtinstruments.com