Source:thznetwork.org

    Microtech Instruments, Inc. announces new hybrid THz source: QS1-260-TT, which is based on millimeter wave backward wave oscillators (BWOs) combined with two frequency triplers. First invented in the 1950¡¯s, BWOs were extensively used in research across 0.1-1.5 THz range for several decades. However, scientists had to rely on other types of THz sources to reach frequencies above 1.5 THz. The introduction of commercially available QS1-260-TT source overcomes the spectral limitation of BWO technology, extending spectral coverage to 2.1 THz.

    ¡°This development will allow the many users of BWOs to upgrade their systems capabilities to 1.7 - 2.1 THz range. Output power of QS1-260-TT ranges from 1 to 5 µW, which is well above sensitivity limit of good pyroelectric detectors and Golay Cells¡±, commented Dr. Hurlbut, senior research scientist at Microtech. ¡°The extended spectral range, reduced footprint, lower operating voltage, and good reliability of the millimeter wave BWO¡¯s make the hybrid electronic sources an excellent option for THz researchers and industrial applications specialists.¡±

    This development is a result of a joint project between Microtech Instruments, Inc., Virginia Diodes, Inc., and Prof. Frank DeLucia of Ohio State University. The project was partly funded by DARPA SBIR program (topic number SB062-002), initiated by Dr. Henry Everitt.